Exclusive: Gigi Hadid Joins Havaianas as Global Ambassador, Redefining the Brand’s Flip-Flops ‘Comeback’ as Fashion Statements
Charlie Carballo
Executive Digital Director
With summer approaching, Havaianas is coming in haute with Gigi Hadid as its new global brand ambassador. The Brazilian brand debuted the supermodel as its new face — and foot — on Friday, posing in the Slim Point Flip Flop in a campaign shot.
Hadid, who hails from the coastal community of Malibu, Calif., makes an apt partner for Havaianas as it aims to elevate its footprint from a casual boardwalk staple to a street-style hero.
“To be the Havaianas global ambassador is surreal, and a bit nostalgic,” Hadid said exclusively. “Growing up at the beach, I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t wearing this summer staple. I’m excited to be working with this team and I love that Havaianas is making a comeback.”
The supermodel aligns with the Alpargatas S.A-owned brand’s initiative to court new constituents globally, said Maria Fernanda Albuquerque, global marketing vice president.
Watch on FN
“Flip-flops are having a major moment. This summer staple has evolved from humble beginnings into being a celebrated fashion statement,” Albuquerque added. “In this context, we are very proud and excited to announce Gigi Hadid as our new global ambassador. With the endorsement of this global fashion icon, we aim to elevate flip-flops to new heights of style and recognition.”
Positioning the brand with an elevated narrative has been an ongoing strategy. Last year, Havaianas collaborated with Dolce & Gabbana in June on a unisex collection that incorporated the Italian brand’s Leopardo and Zebra prints, and signature Blu Mediterraneo and Carretto Siciliano patterns. The release came two months after Havaianas tapped Franco-Japanese fashion house Maison Kitsuné for a Y2K-inspired flip flops collection. Other past collaborations include collections with Saint Laurent and Simone Rocha.
Havaianas’ last celebrity partnership was a collaboration in 2023 with “Euphoria” actress Barbie Ferreira, inspired by vintage Rio de Janeiro interior design and her Brazilian roots.
