MANILA, Philippines - Once worn exclusively with bikinis and board shorts, flip-flops, those humble rubber slippers, have been elevated to chic shoe status, the finishing touch to a fashion designer’s latest creations.
Designers Anthony Nocom, Lyle Ibañez, Catherine Cavilte, Dave Ocampo, and Raoul Ramirez did just that when they collaborated with popular Brazilian flip-flop brand Ipanema for Philippine Fashion Week. Set to unveil their 2012 Resort Wear tomorrow, 5:30 pm at Function Room 4 of the SMX Convention Center, the designers hail Ipanema as an ideal accessory for outfits characterized with light and breezy fabrics, summery shades, relaxed silhouettes, and casual chic styles.
“This is the third time that Ipanema is joining Philippine Fashion Week,” says Ipanema marketing manager Cecille Loritizo, “and the reason why we are part of it once again remains the same. As the biggest fashion and lifestyle event in the country, PFW is a great way for Ipanema to connect with its target market, and an ideal platform to communicate what the brand is all about. We also see it as a fitting venue to show Filipinos that they can actually stylize their ensembles with flip-flops, debunking the notion that this type of footwear is purely meant for functional comfort.”
“The heart and core of the Ipanema brand is its rich Brazilian heritage,” avers Ipanema managing director Patxi Elizalde. “With this in mind, it aims to offer young fashionistas a diversity of flip-flop styles that are not just fit for the beach, but also for a variety of occasions—whether it’s a chic day trip with friends or a stylish evening out with someone special.”
Elizade says that the Brazilian brand is the perfect Pinoy footwear, given the country’s prevailing hot and humid weather. “Filipinos find that they have to bring several pairs of shoes with them, especially when they don’t have the luxury of time to go home and change on a fully-packed day. The brand offers them stylish and versatile picks that can take them from day to night.