How Havaianas conquered fashion weeks around the world From the beaches of Rio to the front rows of Milan, London and Copenhagen

The summer of 2023 has definitely been the summer of flip-flops. And the trend shows no sign of dying out. Indeed, there have been numerous appearances of flip-flops on the feet of fashion insiders in the past month, even many miles away from the beaches - and all of them have proven that not only are these shoes reputed to be the most comfortable ever (and indeed, they are) but also that it is possible to pair them with virtually every outfit thinkable, a feature that is inescapable for making them the stars of so many street looks seen around during fashion weeks in Copenhagen, Milan and London and even worn by members of the nss magazine's staff, like our Head of Social Ilaria Grande and editor-at-large Jordan Anderson, for their fashion week rounds. Of course, the world of flip-flops, as well as the culture surrounding them, is dominated by a single big name: Havaianas. In fact, for those who may not know, it was Havaianas that invented flip-flops as we know them today. Born in Brazil in the early 1960s, Havaianas found inspiration from the Zori, the traditional Japanese sandal whose soles were made using rice straw. With the birth of the green version, ironically born out of a production error, the success of the Havaianas exploded first in Brazil and then around the world, obviously giving rise to numerous attempts at imitation such that the manufacturing company first registered a patent for the model and later that for the flip-flop shape itself.

There is indeed an irresistible appeal in pairing an elegant evening dress or a more tenical outfit with simple, casual rubber flip-flops. It is a statement of style that goes beyond the traditional boundaries of conventional fashion. A recognition, which came later this year, that could be linked to the revival of the 2000s or the popularity of Margiela's divisive Tabi's, but perhaps the truth is that wearing them (especially if in the city) immediately testifies to a confidence to which many aspire. Indeed, unlike, say, a pair of sky-high heels, flip-flops offer a different kind of beauty: that of one who is free to move effortlessly. In a world where fashion often demands discomfort and uncomfortableness, the success of Havaianas reminds us, and thankfully so, that style and elegance can coexist with comfort.