In a tropical country like the Philippines, flip-flops are part of the common staple among Filipino households. Whether one lives near the sea or in the mountains, he or she will always wear this kind of slippers around the house or when visiting neighbors or the market nearby.
But with the advent of Havaianas, flip-flops have become more of a fashion statement, where people don them around malls or in the grocery store. I remember bringing pairs of flip-flops on a Hong Kong trip one sunny April morning. I bring a pair wherever I go. And this time, knowing there will be lots of walking around, I brought some extra pairs. Lo and behold, it was not sunny at all in Hong Kong; not in the next four days that we were there.
Still, I always have my pair of Havaianas in my luggage, whether I go for a business trip or to backpack with friends.
When I was told that Havaianas would be unveiling its new designs in its Bacolod store in SM’s newly opened North Wing, I excitedly headed to the by-invitation-only event.
The beautiful designs were made by no less than Internationally-Acclaimed Designer Francis Libiran, whom I had the privilege to know personally when I worked in Manila Hotel. I was not yet employed in Manila Hotel when it celebrated its 100th year which was highlighted by a wonderful fashion show in its lobby showcasing the 100 creations of Francis Libiran. But even after the event, and when I came on board, I still had meetings with the humble and unassuming Francis along with his team.
An architect by profession, Francis developed his love for fashion at the tender age of eight. He has a meticulous eye for detail, which is evident in his intricate, ethereal designs that have graced countless red carpets, pageant stages, and fashion editorials.
This year, Libiran’s considerable talent has been tapped by global brand Havaianas for a new collection that puts the Philippine artist firmly in the pantheon of international designers, brands and personalities, who have collaborated with the iconic footwear company for its sought-after limited edition releases. He now joins the ranks of Missoni, Bassike, Valentino, and Michael Bastian, iconic names that Havaianas has worked with.
His three designs, each evocative of the different facets of Filipino culture are: the City pair showcases hints of popular culture in the Philippines as expressed through one of the country’s most iconic symbols; the Festival pair (the one I have!) embodies the vibrancy of Philippines’ various festivals, celebrations, and color (seems like Masskara festival to me); and the Island pair which is inspired by the fusion of various design elements pulled from the country’s multicultural background.
Francis, who is ecstatic about this project, says, “Flip-flops are ingrained in the Philippine culture, so I could only imagine the statement my designs would make on them. Because people use them every day, I thought some people would question why they would be so designed because they’re just flip-flops, but for me, it’s about creating wearable pieces of art.”
Hear, hear, Francis. I would be proud to wear it next time I go on a trip, especially if it’s a trip abroad. I’d gladly have this badge of beautiful Filipino art bearing a global name in my travel wear checklist.
Thanks for sharing.