What Are Espadrilles?
Last updated 2026-04-21
Espadrilles are casual shoes with a canvas or cotton upper and a sole made of braided jute rope. They are one of the oldest shoe styles in Europe, with roots in the Pyrenees region dating back to the 14th century. Catalan farmers originally wore them as affordable, breathable work shoes. The style entered mainstream fashion in the mid-20th century when Yves Saint Laurent collaborated with a Spanish manufacturer to create wedge espadrilles in vibrant colors. Since then, they have been a warm-weather staple across price points — from simple canvas flats under $20 to designer wedge versions over $500. Espadrilles work best in spring and summer wardrobes. Flat espadrilles pair naturally with shorts, linen pants, and sundresses for a Mediterranean-inflected casual look. Wedge espadrilles dress up a simple outfit — a white sundress or tailored shorts — without looking like you are trying too hard. The jute sole is the defining detail: it keeps the shoe casual no matter how the upper is styled, which makes espadrilles ideal for daytime events, vacations, and outdoor gatherings.
Classic flat espadrilles in navy or natural canvas, worn with rolled-up linen trousers and a Breton stripe shirt, create the quintessential French Riviera look — effortless, seasonal, and appropriate for a harborside lunch or a weekend farmer's market.
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Questions, answered.
Can you wear espadrilles in the rain?
No. The jute sole absorbs water and breaks down when wet. Espadrilles are strictly fair-weather shoes. If you get caught in a drizzle, let them dry naturally and stuff them with newspaper to hold their shape.
How long do espadrilles last?
Because jute soles wear down and cannot be resoled, espadrilles are inherently seasonal shoes. A well-made pair typically lasts one to two summers of regular wear. Treat them as a warm-weather consumable rather than a long-term investment.
What outfits work with espadrilles?
Shorts, linen trousers, midi skirts, sundresses, and cropped jeans all pair well. The key is keeping the overall look casual to relaxed — espadrilles look out of place with formal tailoring or structured business wear.