Havaianas Launches Subversive Kitten Heel Collaboration

Havaianas, known for its classic rubber flip-flops, has unveiled a surprising collaboration with Studio Constance for its spring 2027 runway show at Copenhagen Fashion Week. The collection features a rubber thong kitten heel with a toe cap covering only the big toe.

A Return to Freaky Footwear

The design builds upon Havaianas’ signature dividing strap, incorporating a small asymmetric heel and bulbous molded toe. Styled with Studio Constance’s elevated basics – frilled jorts and sheer pannier dresses – the shoe presents a sleek, technical aesthetic.

The Trend: Exposed Toes

This kitten heel marks a resurgence of exposed-toe footwear, following the popularity of ’90s-inspired heeled flip-flops championed by figures like Hailey Bieber and Kylie Jenner. Brands such as Le Monde Beryl, Paloma Wool, and Toteme have also embraced this trend, alongside designers like Dries Van Noten and Tory Burch, who have experimented with sculptural and cut-out sandals and heels.

Beyond the Runway

The Havaianas kitten heel is available in green, black, and off-white. The brand has previously collaborated with Jean Paul Gaultier and Saint Laurent on patterned flip-flops, and last year partnered with Gimaguas on eyelet-studded leg warmer flip-flop boots, named Lyst’s hottest product of 2025. Other notable trends include Wardrobe NYC’s toe-exposing knee-high boots, Camper’s Kobarah heels, and Chanel’s half-shoes.