Local Flavor Spices Up Manila Leg of Make Your Own Havaianas 2009

Celebs and personalities recently flocked to the Rockwell Tent for the exclusive launch of the Manila leg of Make Your Own Havaianas 2009 (MYOH09) last May 26.

With models styled by SHU UEMURA for make-up and Kiehl’s for hair, splashy hues and glitzy appliqués strutted along the catwalk as Havaianas showcased the palette of available embellishments, soles and straps.

“With hundreds of possible combinations to choose from, this year’s Make Your Own Havaianas offered Havaianaticos more opportunities to get creative,” said Anne Gonzalez, Managing Director of Havaianas Philippines.

Havaianaticos chose to let their inner chic shine with Swarovski crystals, showcase their inner soul with Lifestyle Pins, and display their Filipino pride with Culture Pins. Each one had the exclusive chance to mix and match soles, straps and embellishments to create their own Havaianas masterpiece.

Model and host Bianca Gonzalez, who experienced the event for the first time, shared, “I wish I was here the other years because I have a lot of Havaianas at home but they’re not custom-made.”

“Havaianas is found all over the world, and with the addition of the Culture Pins, it’s more true to our own culture—so even when you go around the world, your Havaianas will be identified as a pair from the Philippines,” enthused model Robby Mananquil.

Also in attendance were acclaimed director Robby Carmona, award-winning actor Sid Lucero, rugged surfer Luke Landrigan, couple Ria and Luigi Trillo, model Lexi Schulze, TV hosts Chal Lontoc and Claudine Trillo, writer Pepper Teehankee, model and TV host Karen Pamintuan, model Alexi Alunan, Capoeira Professor Fantasma, the Magalona Family, designer Happy David, model Isabel Roces and Publisher Sari Yap, among others.

The Manila leg of MYOH09 began its public run on May 28, ending on June 1. With the first customers arriving at the Rockwell Tent by 5am on the first day, it became clear that the fourth edition of the annual MYOH event was more popular than ever.

Manpower and assembly stations were increased this year, leading to more streamlined processes and considerably shorter lines despite an increase in attendees. After an hour or three of careful deliberation, customers walked away with their own personalized pair, as well as a complimentary Havaianas slipper bag and Havaianas bag tag to further sweeten the experience.

“We’re grateful to everyone who attended our event,” said Ammiel de Leon, Brand Manager for Havaianas Philippines. “We hope they enjoyed the experience of customizing their pairs as much as we enjoyed serving them.”

In the end, close to ten thousand people attended MYOH09-Manila, putting some local soul into their step and proving that the most beloved pair of Havaianas is the one you made your own.

EVENT MECHANICS & RULES

A. Make Your Own Havaianas (MYOH) is an annual event where Havaianaticos can mix and match different colored soles and straps then embellish them with pins.

B. You can create your very own Havaianas pair by following these easy steps:

1. Choose your sole.
2. Choose your strap.
3. Choose your pins: Culture Pins to parade your Filipino pride, Lifestyle Pins to reflect your personality or Swarovskis to express your chic..
4. Our friendly staff will assemble your special pair on the spot. Customers who wish to purchase one (1) pair can proceed to the express lanes, while those who purchase more than one pair may proceed to the multiple-pairs lanes.
5. If you wish to embellish your pair/s with Swarovskis, proceed to the designated Embellishment Station.
   
6. Purchase your exclusive creation for only P795.00 without embellishments; an additional P50.00 for each pin or each Swarovski will be charged.
   
7. Havaianas flip-flops bag and Havaianas bag tag can be claimed at the cashier upon payment.

C. The event offers Adult Top & Slim styles.

D. Cash and credit card purchases are accepted.

E. In the interest of customers and to better serve everyone, each customer is allowed to purchase a maximum of five (5) pairs.

F. Colors and sizes of soles and straps as well as the availability of pins are limited, so don't let this chance slip away! Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. Havaianas Philippines and the organizers are not liable in case stock of Havaianas merchandise runs out.

G. The event organizers reserve the right to limit the time customers are allowed inside the event area, or the number of customers to be allowed in the venue at one time, or adjust event hours, in order to accommodate all customers and allow the organizers to provide the best service possible.

H. Pets, food and drinks are not allowed inside the selection and assembly areas.

I. The event organizers have exerted all efforts to ensure security and safety within the venue. They will not be held liable for any losses or accidents that may occur during the activity.

J. The event organizers reserve the right to refuse entry to individuals or groups for whatever reason they deem valid in order to maintain the safety and/or general interest of majority of its customers.