At BFSHOW, exhibitors are betting big on flip-flops and flats featuring colors and designs that celebrate Brazilian identity
The most national footwear in the world will reinforce its Brazilian identity in the Spring-Summer 2025/2026 season. Tropical prints, bold shades like neon green and flag green, and waterproof materials were among the top trends showcased by exhibitors at the 4th edition of BFSHOW — the biggest footwear tradeshow in Latin America. The event is held by the Brazilian Footwear Industries Association (Abicalçados) and organized by NürnbergMesse Brasil, running through Wednesday (May 21) at Distrito Anhembi in São Paulo/Brazil
Fruits and palm trees, natural weaves, and tortoiseshell prints are some of the highlights from Ipanema for the upcoming season. “In our classic flip-flop models, we’re bringing animal prints, romantic themes with flowers and pets… The demand, especially for the Super Nova line, has been very strong at the trade show. We’re excited and receiving great feedback from clients,” says Daiane Fischer, Ipanema’s Marketing and Communication Manager. Another key bet for the brand is the Comfy Club collection, which focuses on modern comfort through a mix of materials, including injected soles, EVA insoles, and a variety of heel heights.
From the Coast to the Amazon
Tropical Brasil, from Juazeiro do Norte (CE), found inspiration in the world’s largest tropical rainforest for its new collection. “Our Amazon flows down through the country and branches out within Brazil, bringing various elements of Brazilian identity and our originality to the line of round, slim, square-toe flip-flops and clogs,” says Alice Rodrigues, from the Development team at Tropical Brasil and the author of the brand’s original prints.
Another exhibitor betting on prints is Linus, from São Paulo (SP). The brand is known for its anatomical, sustainable sandals inspired by the Birkenstock model. With six years on the market, the company chose BFSHOW to debut its first leopard-print sandal — in addition to its classic color palette, featuring soft pastel shades of yellow, blue, and beige. “We’re a timeless, genderless, and sustainable footwear brand. Launching our first print here is something we’re truly proud of. Being able to present it to our partners during our debut at BFSHOW, alongside brands we admire, is a great joy,” says Matheus de Arruda, Sales Supervisor at Linus, who also highlights that the products are made with 80% renewable-source materials. Concerned about waste, the brand also offers a recycling program that turns used sandals into gym mats, playground impact-absorbing panels, and more.
Focused on men's styles, Itapuã — from Cachoeiro do Itapemirim (ES) — unveiled its Sports Sandal line at BFSHOW. Designed for consumers looking for modern, comfortable flip-flops to wear before and after physical activities, the collection marks a shift from the brand’s flagship line, Urban. “In this collection, unlike our main line, we’re not using leather but alternative materials that can get wet. We’re betting on these sandals for lifestyle moments — whether before hitting the gym or the soccer field, or for a casual outing,” says Tatiana Ritzel, fashion consultant and designer at Itapuã, and partner at Estúdio Compor. She also highlights that the best-selling Gávea line features lightweight EVA flip-flops with anatomical insoles.