Different Types of Espadrilles

By | October 27, 2024

Espadrilles have long been a popular choice for casual, comfortable, and stylish footwear. Originally crafted in Spain and known for their lightweight design and woven jute sole, espadrilles have evolved from humble peasant shoes to fashionable staples for both men and women. These shoes are perfect for warm weather, providing breathability and versatility in design. With the wide variety of espadrilles available today, they can complement almost any casual wardrobe and are suitable for many occasions.

Classic Espadrilles

Classic espadrilles maintain the traditional features that have defined this type of footwear for centuries. These espadrilles typically feature a canvas or cotton upper and a jute sole, embodying the laid-back, summery aesthetic that the shoes are famous for.

Slip-On Espadrilles

Slip-on espadrilles are the most iconic and traditional version of this shoe. They are easy to wear, lightweight, and versatile, making them ideal for everyday use in warm weather. These shoes typically come with a simple design, making them suitable for both men and women.

Key Features:

  • Canvas Upper: Lightweight and breathable fabric like cotton or canvas.
  • Jute Sole: The signature woven jute sole that gives the shoe its rustic look.
  • Simple Design: Typically no laces or fastenings, making them easy to slip on and off.
  • Low Profile: A minimalistic, flat design for casual use.

How to Style Slip-On Espadrilles:

  • Casual Summer Look: Pair neutral-colored slip-on espadrilles with shorts and a light t-shirt for a relaxed, summer-ready outfit.
  • Beach Vibes: Wear slip-on espadrilles with linen pants or a sundress for a chic beach look.
  • Everyday Wear: Style them with jeans and a lightweight blouse or polo shirt for an easy, everyday ensemble.

Lace-Up Espadrilles

Lace-up espadrilles add a modern twist to the classic slip-on style by incorporating laces or ankle ties for added support and style. These espadrilles can range from casual to more dressed-up looks, depending on the materials and design details used.

Key Features:

  • Lace or Tie Closures: Thin laces or ankle ties that offer a secure fit and add a stylish detail.
  • Flexible Sole: A comfortable jute sole that moves with your foot.
  • Variety of Materials: Can be made with canvas, leather, or other fabrics to suit different occasions.

How to Style Lace-Up Espadrilles:

  • Bohemian Style: Pair lace-up espadrilles with a flowy maxi dress and layered accessories for a bohemian-inspired look.
  • Dressy Casual: Opt for leather or suede lace-up espadrilles with tailored trousers or a midi skirt for a slightly more polished outfit.
  • Summer Festival: Wear lace-up espadrilles with shorts and a loose blouse for a fun, festival-ready ensemble.

Platform Espadrilles

Platform espadrilles take the traditional espadrille design and elevate it—literally—with a thicker, stacked jute sole. This added height makes them perfect for those who want a bit of a lift while still enjoying the casual comfort of espadrilles.

Key Features:

  • Elevated Sole: A thicker platform sole made from jute or a combination of jute and rubber for added height.
  • Comfortable Fit: Despite the added height, platform espadrilles maintain the lightweight and breathable qualities of traditional espadrilles.
  • Variety of Styles: Available in slip-on, lace-up, or even wedge designs.

How to Style Platform Espadrilles:

  • Vacation Chic: Pair platform espadrilles with a summer dress or romper for a vacation-ready outfit that’s both stylish and comfortable.
  • Daytime Glam: Style them with wide-legged trousers and a cropped top for a trendy, daytime look with a bit of glamour.
  • Casual Date: Wear platform espadrilles with a flared skirt and a tucked-in blouse for a playful yet put-together outfit.

Espadrille Wedges

Espadrille wedges offer the perfect blend of casual comfort and elevated style, making them a great option for occasions where you want to look polished without sacrificing comfort. Wedge espadrilles feature a thicker, wedge-shaped sole, typically made from woven jute, and are popular for their ability to dress up an outfit without the discomfort of traditional heels.

Traditional Wedge Espadrilles

Traditional wedge espadrilles feature a classic design with a jute-wrapped wedge heel and an upper made from canvas or leather. They are a popular choice for summer events, offering a more formal option without feeling overly dressy.

Key Features:

  • Wedge Heel: A comfortable wedge heel made from woven jute, providing height without sacrificing stability.
  • Secure Fit: Often designed with ankle straps or ties for added support.
  • Breathable Upper: Typically made from canvas or leather to keep your feet cool.

How to Style Traditional Wedge Espadrilles:

  • Garden Party: Pair your wedge espadrilles with a floral sundress or a midi skirt for a feminine, summer-ready look.
  • Business Casual: Wear them with cropped trousers and a button-down shirt for a comfortable yet professional outfit.
  • Wedding Guest: Choose elegant wedge espadrilles in neutral tones to complement a flowy dress or jumpsuit at a casual outdoor wedding.

Ankle-Tie Wedge Espadrilles

Ankle-tie wedge espadrilles add an extra touch of romance and style to the traditional wedge by incorporating ankle ties that wrap around your legs. These ties can be adjusted for a snug fit, and they add a flirty, feminine flair to any outfit.

Key Features:

  • Wrap-Around Ties: Long ties or ribbons that can be wrapped around the ankle or lower leg.
  • Comfortable Wedge: The same supportive jute wedge found in traditional espadrilles.
  • Variety of Heights: Available in different heel heights, from low wedges to higher platforms.

How to Style Ankle-Tie Wedge Espadrilles:

  • Flirty Summer Dress: Pair ankle-tie wedge espadrilles with a short, flowy dress to show off the ankle detail.
  • Breezy Maxi Skirt: Style them with a boho maxi skirt and a tucked-in blouse for an elegant yet relaxed look.
  • Evening Out: Choose a higher wedge for an evening look and pair them with a sleek, tailored jumpsuit or dress.

Closed-Toe Wedge Espadrilles

For those who prefer a more polished look or need a bit more coverage, closed-toe wedge espadrilles offer a more formal version of the classic open-toe style. These espadrilles are ideal for transitional seasons or when you want a more refined appearance without sacrificing the comfort of a wedge.

Key Features:

  • Closed-Toe Design: A more structured, closed front for added coverage.
  • Wedge Heel: The typical jute wedge heel for height and comfort.
  • Variety of Materials: Can be found in leather, suede, or canvas depending on the occasion.

How to Style Closed-Toe Wedge Espadrilles:

  • Business Casual: Pair closed-toe espadrilles with a pencil skirt and a blazer for a professional look that remains comfortable throughout the day.
  • Transitional Weather: Wear them with tailored trousers or a midi dress during spring or fall when the weather is cooler.
  • Evening Elegance: Opt for a sleek leather or suede pair to elevate a formal jumpsuit or fitted dress for evening events.

Fashion-Forward Espadrilles

While espadrilles are traditionally known for their casual, laid-back vibe, modern fashion has pushed the boundaries of this classic shoe, introducing bold, fashion-forward designs that cater to those who want to make a statement with their footwear.

Espadrille Sandals

Espadrille sandals blend the airy design of sandals with the rustic charm of espadrilles. These shoes are perfect for summer, offering open-toe and strappy designs that are ideal for hot weather while maintaining the comfort of the jute sole.

Key Features:

  • Open-Toe Design: Typically feature straps or cut-outs for maximum breathability.
  • Jute Sole: Maintain the classic woven jute sole found in traditional espadrilles.
  • Strappy Detailing: Often feature leather, fabric, or rope straps that enhance the shoe’s aesthetic.

How to Style Espadrille Sandals:

  • Beach Day: Wear espadrille sandals with a flowy beach cover-up or sundress for an easy, breezy look.
  • Summer Festival: Pair them with high-waisted shorts and a crochet top for a fun, festival-ready outfit.
  • Daytime Outing: Style espadrille sandals with a midi skirt and a casual blouse for a comfortable yet stylish daytime outfit.

Espadrille Mules

Espadrille mules combine the slip-on convenience of traditional mules with the rustic charm of espadrilles. These backless shoes are easy to wear and perfect for adding a touch of elegance to a casual summer look. Espadrille mules can come in both flat and heeled versions, making them versatile for different settings.

Key Features:

  • Backless Design: Mules are open at the back, making them easy to slip on and off.
  • Flat or Heeled: Available in flat versions for a more casual look or with a slight heel for added sophistication.
  • Variety of Uppers: Can be found in canvas, suede, leather, and even embroidered or embellished designs.

How to Style Espadrille Mules:

  • Casual Chic: Wear flat espadrille mules with cropped jeans and a tucked-in tee for a polished casual look.
  • Effortless Elegance: Style heeled espadrille mules with a summer dress or skirt for an effortlessly elegant daytime outfit.
  • Weekend Wear: Slip into espadrille mules with tailored shorts and a blouse for a relaxed yet chic weekend look.

Espadrille Sneakers

Espadrille sneakers combine the casual, sporty vibe of sneakers with the summer-ready style of espadrilles. These shoes feature a jute sole but have the structure and comfort of sneakers, making them ideal for people who prefer a more laid-back, athletic aesthetic while still embracing the casual appeal of espadrilles.

Key Features:

  • Sneaker-Like Structure: A more robust upper, often made from canvas or fabric, similar to traditional sneakers.
  • Jute Sole: The classic woven jute sole remains, giving the shoe its espadrille vibe.
  • Lace-Up Design: Typically come with laces for a secure fit.

How to Style Espadrille Sneakers:

  • Sporty Casual: Pair espadrille sneakers with leggings or joggers and a cropped hoodie for a sporty, on-the-go look.
  • Everyday Comfort: Wear them with casual jeans and a tank top for a relaxed weekend outfit.
  • Travel Outfit: Espadrille sneakers are perfect for traveling, offering comfort and style—pair them with athleisure wear for a long day of exploring.

Sustainable Espadrilles

With growing awareness about sustainability, many brands have started to produce eco-friendly espadrilles made from sustainable materials and using environmentally friendly manufacturing processes. These espadrilles allow fashion-conscious consumers to make responsible choices without sacrificing style.

Recycled Material Espadrilles

Recycled espadrilles are made from repurposed materials, such as recycled plastic, fabric, or rubber. These shoes aim to reduce waste by giving new life to old materials while still providing the lightweight, comfortable design that espadrilles are known for.

Key Features:

  • Recycled Uppers: Made from recycled plastics, polyester, or fabric.
  • Eco-Friendly Jute Sole: Jute is a natural, renewable resource, making the sole itself sustainable.
  • Ethical Manufacturing: Often produced in factories with fair labor practices and minimal environmental impact.

How to Style Recycled Espadrilles:

  • Eco-Conscious Fashion: Pair recycled espadrilles with organic cotton clothing or other sustainable pieces to complete an environmentally friendly outfit.
  • Casual Outing: Style them with jeans or a simple dress for a casual yet mindful look.
  • Travel Wardrobe: Recycled espadrilles are perfect for travelers who want to reduce their carbon footprint while still staying stylish.

Vegan Espadrilles

Vegan espadrilles are made without any animal-derived materials, offering an ethical choice for those who prefer cruelty-free fashion. Instead of leather or suede, these espadrilles use plant-based or synthetic alternatives that replicate the look and feel of traditional materials.

Key Features:

  • Animal-Free Materials: No leather, wool, or other animal byproducts are used.
  • Plant-Based Alternatives: Often made from materials like pineapple leather, cork, or synthetic fibers.
  • Sustainable Design: Vegan espadrilles are often produced using sustainable manufacturing methods.

How to Style Vegan Espadrilles:

  • Ethical Style: Pair vegan espadrilles with cruelty-free and sustainable fashion pieces for a head-to-toe ethical look.
  • Everyday Wear: Wear them with jeans, shorts, or dresses for casual, comfortable everyday outfits.
  • Summer Ready: Vegan espadrilles are perfect for hot weather—style them with airy, lightweight clothing like linen trousers or organic cotton skirts.

Different Types of Espadrilles