What are espadrilles?

Once known as a peasant shoe of Spain, espadrilles were utilitarian footwear. Made of a canvas upper and a jute sole, the shoes were relatively easy to produce for cobblers. They were even once associated with rebellion during the Catalan independence movement and the Spanish Civil War . Over time, they’ve become a fashion statement with the addition of ankle ties and luxe fabrications, but they’ll always have their revolutionary roots.

How do you tie espadrilles?

If your espadrilles have long ties, it can be confusing how to situate them. If that’s the case with your shoes, stylist Pelly prefers to tie any ribbons or strings to the back, creating a sleek, slimming line to the leg.

How do you wear espadrilles with jeans?

Of course, it’s always best to embrace your own style go-tos, but if you’re at a loss, then the expert has an easy solution. “With denim, I would style espadrilles with a relaxed fit boyfriend jean that tapers at the ankle, a simple tee, and layered jewelry for an easy relaxed look,” Pelly says.

The 12 Best Espadrilles of 2022

We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Spring is upon us and that means summer is not too far away. It’s that time of year when almost everyone wants a fresh haircut and a change in their wardrobe. And if you just so happen to need a new shoe for the advent of warm weather, we suggest the espadrille. A shoe with historic ties to Catalonia and Basque Country going back centuries, the espadrille has always been a staple in those regions. And with its capture on the silver screen in the costumes of leading ladies like Rita Hayworth and Lauren Bacall, the espadrille grew in popularity around the world during the 1940s. Now a classic in the footwear lexicon, espadrilles are a warm-weather must-have.

It’s no secret that espadrilles have evolved over the decades. Now a favorite for frolicking in warmer climates, almost every brand has its own spin on the ever-popular shoe. To help you select the best espadrille, we’ve enlisted the expertise of stylist Marissa Pelly. Having worked with celebrity clients like Nicky Hilton and with publications including Hypebeast and Complex, Pely is no stranger to understanding the versatility and nuances of different pieces. And she has the best advice on how to navigate well-loved espadrilles.

Meet the Expert

Marissa Pelly is a stylist, fashion editor, and consultant. She’s also the creative director at Ricco Noir Studios.

“I think what attracts people most to espadrilles for summer is that they are comfortable and breathable while also being elevated,” Pelly explained. “Espadrilles are a great alternative to a flat sandal or flip flop. Summer style [and] vacationing style is all about being comfortable and chic. That's where the espadrille shines.”

And, of course, Pelly has her own preferred way of styling the shoe. “I love a flat, slip-on espadrille paired with a silky tailored pant or matching lounge set,” she continued. “Espadrilles are perfect for a relaxed look or vacation vibe.”

Since there are easily hundreds of options from different brands, we’ve made a list of the top styles that fit anyone’s needs—check out the best espadrilles below.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Castañer Carina Wedge Espadrilles at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

ASOS DESIGN Jane Mary-Jane Espadrilles at Asos

Jump to Review

Best Statement:

Solana Beige Cotton Borneo Artisanal Espadrille Shoes at Livesozy.com

Jump to Review

Best Designer:

Chanel Espadrilles at Chanel.com

Jump to Review

Best Platform:

Stella McCartney Gaia Logo Strap Espadrille at Nordstrom

Jump to Review

Best Flats:

Marc Jacobs The Mouse Espadrille Lace-Up Flat at Nordstromrack.com

Jump to Review

Best for Work:

Journee Collection Monte Espadrille Wedge Sandal at Belk.com

Jump to Review

Best for Vacation:

Brother Vellies Whiskey Lace Up Huarache at Brothervellies.com

Jump to Review

Best Value:

Soludos Dali Espadrille at Amazon

Jump to Review

Most Comfortable:

Dr. Scholl's Sunray Slip-On Espadrille Sneaker at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
What To Look For
Why Trust Byrdie

Saks

View On Amazon View On Bloomingdales View On Net-a-Porter

With a 2.5-inch wedge heel, the Carina espadrilles have duality as a comfortable and fashionable shoe for a reasonable price of around $140. Made in Spain, these iconic espadrilles were first made in the 1970s, originally commissioned by the one and only Yves Saint Laurent—and haven’t gone out of style since. Because they’re only available in whole sizes, we recommend going up a size if you typically wear a half size.

Material: Canvas, leather, jute, cotton, rubber | Colors: Black, Ivory, Sand, Azul Marin +more | Size: US 5-11

ASOS

View On Asos

These Mary Jane espadrilles are a great budget option with a below-$40 price point that doesn’t sacrifice style.

Material: Faux leather and other materials | Colors: Black, White | Size Range: US 4-11

Solana Beige Cotton Borneo Artisanal Espadrille Shoes

Sozy

View On Livesozy.com

These $286 espadrilles combine the shape of the classic shoe with a fun design detail that makes them a statement piece.

Material: 100% jute | Colors: Beige | Size Range: US 6-11

Chanel

View On Chanel.com View On Neiman Marcus

This wouldn’t be a roundup of espadrilles without mentioning the fan-favorite Chanel espadrilles. While the storied fashion house releases new renditions of the classic shoe each year, the original style deserves a spot on this list—if you have $800 to spare.

Material: Lambskin and grosgrain | Colors: Black, Cream, Navy +more | Size: EU 35-40

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom View On Bloomingdales View On Cettire.com

You get the best of both worlds with the Gaia espadrille. Sustainability and a 2-inch platform make up this $595 modern take on the warm-weather shoe.

Material: Textile and rubber | Colors: Deep Black, Camelia/White, Mango/Orange, Silver | Size: US 5-11

Marc Jacobs The Mouse Espadrille Lace-Up Flat

Nordstrom Rack

View On Nordstromrack.com

While these Marc Jacobs espadrilles certainly have personality, they’re a perfect flat for walking around town that also meets your sartorial needs.

Material: Leather and synthetic fabric | Colors: Black, Navy, Light Pink | Size: US 5-11

Journee Collection

View On Belk.com View On Dsw.com View On Journeecollection.com

Don’t be intimidated by the 3-inch wedge heel on these espadrilles. The Monte pair from Journee is composed of espadrille staple canvas along with a comfort footbed and an ankle tie that provides flair and stability support. And they’re not too expensive for a work commute—at around $60, they’re OK to wear down and replace after long wear.

Material: Canvas and faux leather | Colors: Light Brown, Black, Navy, Coral | Size: US 5.5-12

Brother Vellies

View On Brothervellies.com

Huaraches technically aren’t espadrilles, but we couldn’t leave this pair from Brother Vellies out of the mix. With handwoven leather made in Mexico, these are perfect for a summer trip.

Material: 100% leather | Colors: Brown | Size: US 5-12

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Belk.com

Would this be a roundup for espadrilles if Soludos wasn’t mentioned? Of course, the ever-popular Dali espadrille is on the list—with organic materials and an accessible price point, these are a great value.

Material: Organic woven cotton, braided jute, and rubber | Colors: Black, White, Chambray, Red Stripe, Sunshine Stripe +more | Size: US 5-11

Dr. Scholls Sunray Slip-On Espadrille Sneaker

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Dsw.com View On Famousfootwear.com

When it comes to comfort, Dr. Scholl's is always top of mind. These shoes have the look of espadrilles with the support and cushion that makes Dr. Scholl's renowned.

Material: Jute and insole technology | Colors: Black, Lemon Meringue +more | Size: US 6.5-11

Free People Surfside Mary Jane Espadrilles

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom View On Belk.com View On Freepeople.com

Mary Janes are a fun shoe to add to your wardrobe if you like retro style. These under-$150 espadrilles have the look of Mary Janes with styling and composition that makes them the perfect summertime shoe.

Material: Canvas and rubber | Colors: Natural, Saffron, Red, White, Blue | Size: US 6-11

Madewell

View On Garmentory.com View On Madewell.com View On Verishop.com

It’s nearly impossible to have a sustainable shoe on the list without mentioning Alohas. Based in the Balearic region of Spain, the slow fashion brand may be more known for their boots, but these espadrilles are a great option for espadrille lovers that don’t want to contribute to fast fashion.

Material: 100% leather | Colors: Camel, Ivory, Black +more | Size: EU 35-42

What to Look for in a Pair of Espadrilles

Purpose

It’s no secret that there are several versions of espadrilles available to shop everywhere. Since there are so many options, it’s important to note what you want and need in your espadrille. Whether it’s a flat sole for easy walkability or a platform for extra height, it’s good to know what will work best for you.

Construction

At the same time, fabrication also matters—do you prefer satin, leather, suede, or the traditional canvas? While this adds variety, it also makes deciding that more difficult. But the great thing about all of these is the range of prices. You can always find espadrilles if you’re on a budget or willing to splurge.

FAQ

What are espadrilles?

Once known as a peasant shoe of Spain, espadrilles were utilitarian footwear. Made of a canvas upper and a jute sole, the shoes were relatively easy to produce for cobblers. They were even once associated with rebellion during the Catalan independence movement and the Spanish Civil War. Over time, they’ve become a fashion statement with the addition of ankle ties and luxe fabrications, but they’ll always have their revolutionary roots.
How do you tie espadrilles?

If your espadrilles have long ties, it can be confusing how to situate them. If that’s the case with your shoes, stylist Pelly prefers to tie any ribbons or strings to the back, creating a sleek, slimming line to the leg.
How do you wear espadrilles with jeans?

Of course, it’s always best to embrace your own style go-tos, but if you’re at a loss, then the expert has an easy solution. “With denim, I would style espadrilles with a relaxed fit boyfriend jean that tapers at the ankle, a simple tee, and layered jewelry for an easy relaxed look,” Pelly says.

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie contributor Mallori Albright has six years of experience writing fashion and beauty content and is also a lover of espadrilles for vacation and strolling around New York City. You can check out more of Mallori’s work at Marie Claire and NYLON Magazine.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough espadrilles from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com, and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

The Best Places to Buy Shoes Online for Convenient, Reliable Shopping