6 Reasons Why Espadrilles Are Perfect Summer Shoes For The Whole Family

by Liz Lambert | Jul 2, 2020 | Fashion

From its humble beginning as a sailor shoe, the espadrille has become a style icon, interpreted by even the most high-fashion designers to become a summer fashion staple, year after year.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Espadrilles were first documented in the fourteenth century. The French word espadrille is derived from espardenya in Catalan or alpargata and esparteña in Spanish. Originally made with esparto, a tough, wiry Mediterranean grass used in making rope, today espadrilles are commonly made with jute soles and canvas uppers. Once largely worn by peasants, espadrilles became part of the national identity of Basque country and Catalonia. They were popularized by Spaniards fleeing the Spanish Civil War and later by artists such as Picasso in France.

Castaner popularized the espadrille as a fashion shoe when the brand collaborated with Yves Saint Laurent in the 1970’s to create the first wedge espadrille. More recently, New York City-based Soludos has established itself as a great destination for classic espadrilles and fun novelty styles for both men and women. Founded in 2010, Soludos also makes cheery sandals and sneakers.

6 Reasons To Wear Espadrilles

1. Stylish – The simple profile of espadrilles is minimal yet chic.
2. Versatility – Wear them as slip-on, dress them down with shorts or up with a dress; to the beach or to dinner.
3. Eco-friendly – Espadrilles are generally made from sustainable materials such as cotton canvas, jute and latex.
4. Family-friendly – Simple styling and low cost makes them a great option for moms, dads and little ones.
5. Breathable – The combination of simple construction and natural materials makes espadrilles super breathable, and a great summer shoe option that’s less exposed than sandals but still super comfy in heat.
6. Wallet-friendly – Classic everyday espadrilles are generally inexpensive, especially when you consider they can be both a beach shoe and anywhere shoe.

Espadrilles For Women

Soludos Original Dali Espadrille, $41.90 at Zappos

The Soludos classic espadrille, made modern with a narrower more feminine profile.

Ombre Stripe Smoking Slipper, $95 at Soludos

Bright stripes for a fun take on the espadrille.

Castaner Carina Wedge Espadrilles, $175 at Shopbop

The iconic Castaner Carina Wedge Espadrille in a walkable heel height, with feminine ankle wrap ties.

Castaner Sabry Side-Tie Espadrilles, $160 at Anthropologie

This fun option from Castaner combines cotton canvas with bright grosgrain ribbons for a colorful yet comfortable espadrille. With a 1.25″ stacked jute heel.

Espadrilles For Men

Rivieras Tour Du Monde Mens Slip-On, $78 at Zappos

The Rivieras slip-on is really more of an “espadrille-inspired” shoe, but still in the spirit of the classic espadrille. Zappos has a great selection of many Rivieras styles for men.