Cebuanos make their own Havaianas
The Florendos: Lili, Niki, Irene, Toby, Anton and Leanne
Havaianas flip-flops, the Brazilian-based company popularly known for comfort, fun and style, recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with the much-anticipated annual kaleidoscopic event dubbed “Make Your Own Havaianas” (MYOH) at the SM Northwing Atrium, Cebu.
AL Amizade’s Leanne Florendo and Aimil Sarmiento, the driven ladies responsible for bringing this footwear to the islands and the rest of Central and Eastern Visayas, warmly welcomed guests amid cheers, applause and a burst of confetti. Budding beauty Mia Arcenas graciously hosted the fun festivity. Accompanied by the beat of Brazilian drums, fashion designers, trendsetters and other notable personalities present added to the colorful ambience.
The embellishment pins featured this year were reminiscent of the brand’s heritage — Brasilpinas, a soccer ball as well as pins that express a person’s individuality. Crystals, aviators, golden hearts, butterfly and letter pins were used to spell names for a truly personalized pair. Likewise, the commemorative estampas soles were highly coveted as it was made especially for “Make Your Own Havaianas” Philippines. A special stamp with gold markings marked the chocolate brown and white soles to depict Havaianas’ history such as “1962, the year Havaianas was born.”
In the spirit of sharing and making the event more meaningful, a donation of P100 for every purchase of the Happiness pin went to Operation Smile Philippines.
This year’s event turned out to be the most special MYOH as there was also a colorful exhibit that showcased the brand’s history and heritage. The Havaianas tale was also brought to life by award-winning sand artist Joseph Erwin Valerio and his canvas of sand in an amazing live sand art performance that left everyone in awe.
A delicious, well-thought-out menu created especially for the event featured Hawaiian, Brazilian, Japanese and Filipino dishes that were inspired by Havaianas’ history.
Unbelievably, these incredibly light flip-flops have become a lifestyle brand that has spread around the world. It certainly puts a spark into your lax wardrobe while still managing to make you look your best.
