Definition
Espadrilles are lightweight shoes with a sole made from braided rope or jute, traditionally combined with a fabric upper. They are a classic warm-weather shoe and are available as flat slip-ons, lace-up styles, sandals, and wedge heels.
The defining feature is the natural-looking braided sole. It gives espadrilles a relaxed, summery character that is softer and less formal than most leather shoes, pumps , or structured loafers.
What Do Espadrilles Look Like?
A typical pair of espadrilles has a low-profile sole wrapped in braided jute or rope and an upper in canvas, cotton, linen, or leather. Flat versions often resemble a closed-toe slip-on, while wedge espadrilles add height through a covered wedge sole. Some designs fasten around the ankle with ties or straps.
This mix of natural texture and simple construction makes espadrilles feel easy, informal, and seasonal. They are closely associated with holidays, coastal settings, and relaxed summer dressing, but can also make everyday city outfits feel lighter.
How Espadrilles Affect an Outfit
Espadrilles do more than complete a summer look. Their texture, shape, and height influence the outfit’s proportion and level of formality.
- Flat espadrilles feel relaxed and practical. They suit casual dresses, cropped trousers, shorts, and easy skirts.
- Wedge espadrilles add height while retaining a softer, more summery effect than a sharp heel. Explore the difference in Wedge Heel .
- Closed-toe espadrilles create a more covered, polished line than open sandals .
- Natural jute soles bring visible texture, which pairs especially well with linen, cotton, denim, and other relaxed materials.
Because espadrilles sit visually close to the ground and usually have a rounded, light shape, they can make an outfit feel approachable rather than strict. They are often a natural fit for Resort Casual dressing, weekend looks, and warm-weather travel wardrobes.
How to Style Espadrilles
With trousers and jeans
Choose hems that reveal the shoe rather than covering the braided sole. Cropped straight-leg trousers, ankle-length jeans, and chinos are particularly easy combinations. A small gap at the ankle can keep the outfit light and prevent the lower half from looking heavy.
For wider trousers, an espadrille can work well when the hem is short enough to maintain a clear line. The relationship between the shoe and trouser length matters as much as the shoe itself. See Shoe-Hem Relationship for a closer look at this styling principle.
With dresses and skirts
Flat espadrilles give summer dresses and midi skirts a relaxed finish. They can balance romantic prints, linen shirt dresses, and casual cotton silhouettes without making the outfit feel overly polished.
Wedge espadrilles add height under midi and maxi lengths. Choose a stable fit around the heel and ankle, especially when the skirt is long or the ground is uneven. The wedge should support the outfit, not compete with it.
With shorts
Espadrilles are a natural partner for tailored shorts, denim shorts, and summer co-ords. A simple upper in navy, black, cream, or tan is especially versatile because it works with many warm-weather colors and fabrics.
When Are Espadrilles Appropriate?
Espadrilles are suitable for casual and smart casual settings, particularly in warm, dry weather. They work well for:
- Holidays and travel
- Casual lunches and daytime gatherings
- Garden parties with a relaxed dress code
- Summer city outfits
- Beach restaurants and resort settings
- Informal weekend occasions
They are usually less suitable for formal offices, business formal events, rainy days, and dress codes such as Black Tie or formal eveningwear. Their braided soles are inherently relaxed, even when the upper is elegant.
Fit and Comfort: What to Check
Espadrilles should feel secure without compressing the toes or slipping at the heel. Fabric uppers can soften with wear, while rope and jute soles may have less flexibility and weather resistance than rubber-soled shoes.
Before buying, check:
- Whether the heel stays in place while walking
- Whether the toe area offers enough room
- Whether straps or ankle ties hold securely without rubbing
- Whether the sole feels stable on the surfaces you will actually walk on
- Whether the shoe works with the trouser and skirt lengths you wear most often
For a clear fit assessment, consider the shoe’s Toe Shape , width, and how it supports your natural walking pattern.
Common Misunderstandings
Misunderstanding: Espadrilles are always beach shoes.
Better: Their relaxed character suits beach and holiday outfits, but clean, well-fitting espadrilles can also complement polished summer dresses, tailored trousers, and smart casual looks.
Misunderstanding: All espadrilles are flat.
Better: Espadrilles can be flat, platformed, lace-up, sandal-like, or made with a wedge heel. Each version changes comfort, height, and the overall mood of the outfit.
Misunderstanding: Espadrilles are practical in every summer condition.
Better: They are ideal for warm, dry days. Jute and rope soles do not respond well to repeated exposure to moisture.
ESKYNA Key Line
Espadrilles bring natural texture and relaxed summer ease to an outfit. The best pair fits securely, suits your real walking needs, and works clearly with your preferred hem lengths.
Related Terms
Find more footwear terms in Shoes .
Interesting facts about Espadrilles
- Espadrilles are recognized by their rope or jute sole, often combined with a canvas, cotton, or other fabric upper.
- Flat espadrilles and wedge espadrilles create different levels of height, formality, and visual weight.
- The natural sole makes espadrilles especially suited to dry, warm-weather outfits rather than wet conditions.