Havaianas Launches Subversive Kitten Heel Collaboration

Havaianas, known for its classic rubber flip-flops, has debuted a new collaboration with Studio Constance for spring 2027, featuring a rubber thong kitten heel with a toe cap covering only the big toe. The design incorporates the brand’s signature dividing strap shape, adding a small asymmetric heel and bulbous moulded toe.

A Return to Exposed Toes

The shoe, styled on the runway with Studio Constance’s elevated basics, is sleek and technical-looking. This trend of exposing toes in Fashion has gained prominence, with brands like Le Monde Beryl, Paloma Wool, and Toteme embracing the silhouette, alongside Dries Van Noten and Tory Burch.

Recent Trends in Freaky Footwear

Other notable examples include Margiela tabi flats, Nike Air Rifts (with a Skims collaboration), and Chanel’s half-shoes, reflecting a broader shift towards more unconventional footwear. Brands like Wardrobe NYC and H&M are also incorporating toe-exposing elements into their collections.

Havaianas’ History of Innovation

This kitten heel marks a step toward sophistication for Havaianas, following previous collaborations with Jean Paul Gaultier, Saint Laurent, and Gimaguas, including the 2025 Lyst’s hottest product, eyelet-studded leg warmer flip-flop boots. The brand’s history of experimentation reflects a growing interest in playful and slightly subversive footwear trends.

The shoe is available in green, black, and off-white. Photo: Umberto Fratini / Gorunway.com Photo: Umberto Fratini / Gorunway.com Photo: Instagram (@havaianaseurope)