Olukai sandals: Casual luxury

CEBU, Philippines - It might sound like an oxymoron, but there is such a thing called "casual luxury."

Inasmuch as sleek stillettos and slinky cocktail dresses give the look of luxury, there are times when one wants to unwind, veg out, and walk around in flip-flops and sandals by the beach.

Every wish list contains stuff dreams are made off — the latest gadgets, the most kick-ass cars, the most opulent jewelry, and the classiest wardrobe line. Not to mention the dream house and probably a long vacation.

That long vacation would certainly call for a respite from the glitzy stuff, and would certainly be a relaxing one. If luxury is going to be itemized on our wish lists one item after another, Olukai sandals deserve a place on each of them. Each pair is a testament to outstanding craftsmanship, with intricate artistry shining through every detail.

"OluKai is a premium product that reflects the combination of superior craftsmanship and materials with the ethos of the ocean lifestyle," says owner Bill Worthington. "Our vision is to bring a brand to market that reflects the feel of the ocean element and our roots in Hawaii. Our mark, the Makau or bone hook is a traditional Polynesian symbol for strength and good luck which to us embodies the visceral connection that exists between people and the ocean. I believe that life in harmony with the ocean is the ultimate lifestyle and I recognize that there are a lot of people who share and respect this viewpoint."

OluKai aims to make an impact in the beachfront lifestyle market while leaving the smallest footprint it could on the planet. As living by the beach is as good as living a vacation 'round the clock, choices of apparel and footwear need not to look stiff, but relaxed, laid-back, and ultra-comfortable.

OluKai targets, what the founders believe, is an opening in the marketplace for a high end, premium casual sandal that calls out to a relaxed, confident and up market customer who appreciates a high quality product.

These finely-crafted sandals are like gems on every person's feet - painstakingly detailed and labored over. Apart from its ornate detail, walking in a pair of OluKai sandals is a luxury to the feet, sparing the wearer from walking around in rigid footwear. Its material provides utmost comfort, making every step a treat and delight. Whether you're by the beachfront or stuck in the city, you could always bring that bit of luxury to your feet by walking around with a pair of OluKai' s, keeping the feet open and free. Who says casual is sloppy?

Olukai is exclusively distributed by the Primer Group of Companies and is now available at Res|Toe|Run in Paseo Verde, Ayala Center Cebu. (THE FREEMAN)