Make Your Own Havaianas: "DIY" in Sanlitun Village
In a country where sandals are largely reserved for the home (or for physical laborers who can’t afford sturdier footwear), Havaianas has managed to thrive. The Brazilian flip-flop brand first caught the Western public’s radar when it began adorning the feet of celebrities like Mary-Kate Olsen and David Beckham. The fact that Old Navy and other outlets sold similar styles for under USD 3 made no difference; people wanted Havaianas now, even if they cost USD 10-20 more.
In China, it seems their reputation precedes them. At least enough so that they have been able to successfully open up concessions in malls across town, from Wangfujing’s Oriental Plaza to Sanlitun Village. And now, in celebration of their 50th anniversary, the brand is bringing their international “Make Your Own Havaianas” beach-themed event to Sanlitun Village from July 21-22.
From 11am-9pm, the public is invited to stop by and customize their very own pair of beach sandals. Games, photo opportunities and prizes will also be up for grabs. According to AnyWearStyle.com, the steps are as follows:
1. Select your Havaianas from over 70 styles and choose your pins from over 30 designs.
2. Pick up and fill out an order form.
3. Take your order form to the cashier and pay for your chosen Havaianas and pin(s).
4. Take your stamped receipt to the Havaianas team who will attach your pins to your chosen Havaianas at the MYOH counter.
Okay, so the activity is not as “DIY” as it sounds. For those still unsure of what to expect, visit the Havaianas website, which takes you step-by-step through the MYOH process. It appears that you can personalize everything from the base to the strap color, and the cutesy pins (RMB 10-20) come in many different forms from stars to palm trees. The thongs themselves start from RMB 190 and up.
It appears that MYOH also took place in the Philippines earlier this year. For a blogger's take on the event, click here.
Make Your Own Havaianas. Jul 21-22. 11am-9pm. The Piazza at Sanlitun Village
Photos: Courtesy of Havaianas