Flip-flop season just got brighter
The Philippines has only two seasons: rainy days and flip-flop weather—and most of the year belongs to the latter. Just in time for the sunniest months, Brazilian footwear favorite Ipanema is stepping back into the spotlight with a vibrant new collection ready to hit the streets, the beaches, and everywhere in between.
Named after the iconic seaside neighborhood of Ipanema, the brand channels the laid-back spirit of Rio de Janeiro—where fitflops are more than just footwear; they’re a way of life. After winning over Filipino fans years ago with its easygoing style and comfort, Ipanema is making a confident return to the local scene, bringing a fresh burst of Brazilian flair suited to the country’s warm, sun-drenched lifestyle.
I had the opportunity to learn more about the brand’s renewed push in the Philippines when Alexandre Gastaldello, export director of the export division of Grendene, visited Manila for the official launch. The gathering was held at Fogo de Chão, where authentic Brazilian churrasco completed the experience, bringing a taste of Brazil’s vibrant lifestyle to the launch.
Joining him at the celebration were Gilberto Fonseca Guimarães de Moura, Brazil’s ambassador to the Philippines—who fittingly hails from Ipanema itself—and Vanessa Chua Sy, managing director of Tykes Trading Inc., the company bringing the brand back to Filipino consumers.
Bringing Brazil’s spirit of style to the Philippines
At the launch, I had the chance to sit down with Gastaldello to hear firsthand how Ipanema blends fashion, comfort and Brazilian lifestyle for the Filipino market.
The Philippines, Gastaldello believes, is a natural home for the brand. With its tropical climate and relaxed lifestyle, the market aligns perfectly with Ipanema’s DNA.
“Ipanema carries a feminine soul,” he explained. “It’s a product you can wear both in the city and at the beach—but always relaxed. It brings fashion to your feet and a lot of comfort.” He laughed and added, “I’m an Ipanema wearer myself.”
That relaxed sensibility is central to how the brand stays relevant across different cultures and markets. “For us, it’s about making fashion democratic,” Gastaldello said. “We take global fashion trends and make them accessible to a wider audience.”
Color, of course, is another signature of the brand. This new collection—flip-flops, sandals and slides alike—brings a burst of sunshine to your feet, ready for sunny days and spontaneous getaways. And for Filipinos, who live in sun-soaked cities and coastal towns, these versatile styles fit perfectly into everyday life.
Beyond classic flip-flops, the brand now offers a wider range of silhouettes—including ballerinas, platforms, and fashion-forward sandals. “They’re versatile,” Gastaldello noted. “You can wear them casually, but some styles can also work for special occasions.”
Sustainability at the core
Sustainability remains a major pillar of the brand’s identity. “We don’t do sustainability just for marketing—we do it because we believe in sustainable practices,” Gastaldello emphasized. “Today, Ipanema has one of the lowest carbon footprints in the global footwear industry.”
Part of that comes from the durability and recyclability of its materials. “Our products last a long time, and they can also be recycled,” he explained. “That means the life cycle of both the raw materials and the finished product is extended.”
With its colorful, versatile and comfortable designs, Ipanema’s return to the Philippines is more than just a comeback—it’s a celebration of sun-soaked days, playful style, and the effortless spirit of Brazil. Whether on the city streets, sandy shores, or anywhere in between, the brand proves that summer-ready sandals can be as stylish as they are comfortable, letting Filipinos step into every moment with a little bit of Rio flair.
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Shop Ipanema at SM Department Stores in Megamall, San Lazaro, North EDSA, Mall of Asia, Manila, Sta. Mesa, Grand Central, Pampanga, Bacoor, Dasmariñas, Clark, Sta. Rosa, La Union, Cabanatuan, Baguio, Cebu, Seaside, Iloilo, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, Lanang, and Davao, as well as in The Playground Stores in Shangri-La Plaza and Robinsons Magnolia.
For updates, new releases, and style inspiration, stay connected through Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit www.ipanema.ph to explore the full collection.
