The joy of summer, however short lived, means women across the land have finally been able to rediscover that perennial wardrobe favourite — the flip-flop and, in particular, Havaianas. Nothing compares to the comfort of what is widely regarded as the best flip-flop in the world.

Available in a rainbow of colours and loved by everyone from schoolgirls to world leaders, Havaianas celebrate their 50th birthday this year. The secret of their success lies in the closely guarded rubber formula, which makes thicker, bouncier sandals that don't cause blisters — and look good. Jennifer Aniston and Heidi Klum love them, even David Beckham and Barack Obama own a pair. They have featured on the Paris catwalk and become so popular with the Hollywood A-list that they are a long-standing feature of Oscars goodie bags. Last year, a staggering 210 million pairs were sold in 80 countries worldwide. Who would have thought that a rubber sandal, based on the traditional straw-bottomed shoe worn by geishas, and designed for Brazilian labourers, would become such a style staple?

But after launching in the Sixties, the footwear — which cost less than £2 in Brazil — became such an essential that they were included on the list of basic necessities such as rice and beans that the government used to calculate cost of living increases. Soon, everybody in Brazil — from rich to poor — started to wear them. Before long, the rest of the world wanted a piece of the action and today you can buy Havaianas everywhere from JD Sports to Harrods. In the past 50 years, the same factory has made 2.2 billion pairs of sandals. What more can you say? Except, happy birthday Havaianas.

– Daily Mail