What Are Espadrilles? A Complete Guide to This Timeless Footwear

If you have been shopping for casual footwear that is both comfortable and stylish, there is a good chance you have at some point in time heard of espadrilles. But what exactly are they? Espadrilles are casual shoes that were initially made of jute soles and a material or cloth upper part likely to be of canvas or cotton. They are a classic that will always remain in fashion and which people prefer for comfort and elegance hence making them ideal to wear all year round more so during the warm seasons.

From regular flat handmade espadrilles to today’s trend of platform espadrilles, this footwear has come a long way, making it not only a favourite among women but anyone who is on the lookout for a casual, comfortable summer shoe. Today, they are an essential part of women’s espadrille shoes, which can be worn with relaxed summer clothing. For those who would like to diversify their shoe choice, espadrilles make a perfect choice.

History and Origin of Espadrilles

The story of espadrille shoes is thousands of years old, and they originated in Spain as well as in France. It means “espadrille” derives from “esparto” which is a plant growing in Southern Spain and which was used to create the rope soles of the shoes.

The Spanish Roots

It is believed that more than 4 thousand years ago, the residents of Spain wore espadrilles, but this population was mainly peasants and workers in the regions of Catalonia and Basque. The shoes were utilitarian and durable due to the rope-soled shoe construction giving comfort to the wearers who had to use them during work-related long shifts. Espadrilles were originally conceived as simple footwear, however, they were used as such due to their practicality.

The French Influence

Esparðilles continued spreading through Western Europe and crossed the Pyrennées mountains into the Gascogne country where they rapidly became popular in the Basque country. French craftsmen started adding their creativity into the creation of these shoes, making handmade espadrilles a more lavish item to wear and not only for those who have to work with them as shoes. By the 20th century, they had gone from being the shoes of outcasts to being part of popular culture, with celebrities and designers alike embracing the espadrille shoe fad. Nowadays Women’s espadrilles are produced and used all over the globe as both traditional shoes and fashionable ones.

Types of Espadrilles

One of the many factors why women’s espadrille shoes have been popular with this generation is because of the many styles that are being offered.

Flat Espadrilles

The most traditional design is flat shoes resembling espadrilles, although this model is still popular today because of its simple and comfortable design. These shoes are durable, comfortable, versatile and ideal for most activities during the day. The women’s espadrille shoes are best worn with jeans trousers, skirts, and dresses especially those for relaxed occasions.

Wedge Espadrilles

If you’re in search of height with comfort then wear espadrille sandals or there are some with a platform sole. Wedge espadrilles have the same rope-soled flare as classic espadrilles but are designed with a heel. These are perfect for both day and evening wear and will certainly add the finishing touch to any plain outfit.

Slip-on Espadrilles

Comfort is the key factor that any consumer would want, and slip-on espadrille shoes women are easy to wear. These shoes are mostly designed to have elastic bands around them to enable easy pulling on or off. They are appropriate for mundane chore runs or casuals where fashion meets comfort at your convenience.

For more details, you can refer to the article "How are espadrilles different from other women's shoes?"

Material and Construction of Espadrilles

The materials used in espadrille shoes are what makes them different from other shoes that are out in the market. Traditionally, handmade espadrilles consist of two primary materials: jute soles and a canvas upper material. These materials help to make the shoe light and airy and therefore ideal for summer shoes.

Traditional Materials

Jute Soles: Jute is another raw natural fibre obtained from plants which is used for making the base of the shoe with rope soles. This is flexible and quite airy to make it appropriate for use in shoes during hot weather.
Canvas Upper: The upper part of the shoe was traditionally made of canvas or cotton materials as they are light materials convenient for use during hot weather. It contributes to the general comfort of the shoe and it also makes your feet dry in hot weather.

Modern Materials

In recent years, modern versions of women’s espadrille shoes have incorporated more contemporary materials, such as leather, suede, and even synthetic fabrics. These materials give a more polished, formal look while maintaining the comfort of traditional espadrille shoes.

Leather Espadrilles: Offer a sleek, more formal take on the classic espadrille shoe design. These are perfect for casual office settings or evening outings.
Synthetic Fabrics: Some modern premium espadrille designs use synthetic materials for added durability, though traditionalists prefer natural materials like canvas and jute.

Fashion and Styling Tips

One of the best things about women's espadrille shoes is how easily they can be styled with a variety of outfits. Whether you’re dressing for a casual day or a formal event, espadrille sandals or platform espadrilles can be your go-to footwear.

How to Style Espadrilles:

Casual Daywear: Pair flat espadrilles with denim shorts, a simple t-shirt, or a flowy summer dress for a relaxed, effortless look. The jute soles provide a perfect earthy touch to your summer outfits.
Office Look: For a more polished look, wear espadrille wedges with tailored trousers or a midi dress. They add just the right amount of height and sophistication without compromising on comfort.
Evening Wear: For a night out, opt for platform espadrilles in suede or leather. Pair them with a jumpsuit or a cocktail dress to create a chic, fashion-forward ensemble.

Wondering what outfits go best with women's espadrilles? You can find inspiration in What outfits go best with women's espadrilles?

Benefits of Wearing Espadrilles

Why choose espadrille shoes over other footwear options? There are several benefits to choosing women’s espadrille shoes, whether for style or comfort.

Benefits of Espadrilles:

Comfort: The jute soles provide a natural cushioning that makes espadrilles incredibly comfortable, even for extended wear.
Breathability: The combination of canvas shoes and jute soles makes for a highly breathable shoe. Your feet will stay cool and comfortable, even on hot days.
Eco-friendly: Many handmade espadrilles women’s shoes are crafted using sustainable, biodegradable materials like jute and cotton, making them an eco-conscious choice for consumers.
Versatility: Whether you’re looking for espadrille sandals or platform espadrilles, this footwear can adapt to different settings and occasions, making it a versatile option for your wardrobe.

How to Identify Authentic Espadrilles

With so many imitations in the market, it’s essential to know how to identify genuine handmade espadrilles. Authentic premium espadrille shoes are known for their craftsmanship and use of traditional materials.

Tips to Spot Genuine Espadrilles:

Examine the Soles: Authentic espadrille shoes feature real jute soles. Synthetic or rubbery-looking soles are often signs of imitations.
Look at the Stitching: Authentic handmade espadrilles will have visible stitching along the edge where the upper part of the shoe is attached to the jute soles. This detail is often missing or poorly executed in mass-produced versions.
Material Check: Real women’s espadrille shoes will use high-quality, breathable materials like canvas, leather, or suede. If the shoes feel overly stiff or plasticky, they are likely imitations.

Care and Maintenance of Espadrilles

To ensure your espadrille shoes last as long as possible, it's essential to care for them properly. Unlike other types of footwear, espadrilles require special attention due to their natural materials.

How to Maintain Your Espadrilles:

Avoid Water: Since jute soles are made from natural fibres, water can weaken and damage them. If your espadrilles get wet, allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
Spot Clean: For dirt or stains on the canvas shoes upper, use a mild soap solution and a soft brush to clean the affected areas gently.
Proper Storage: Store your espadrilles in a cool, dry place to avoid any moisture buildup that could damage the jute.
Protect the Soles: To prevent excessive wear, consider adding a thin rubber layer to the bottom of your espadrille shoes if you wear them often.

Conclusion

Espadrilles are more than just another trend in the world of women's shoes; they are a versatile, timeless option that can be worn in a variety of settings. From handmade espadrilles to platform espadrilles, the combination of comfort, style, and sustainability makes them a must-have for any wardrobe.

Whether you're pairing them with casual wear or something a little more formal, espadrille shoes are the perfect blend of comfort and style. So, explore the latest collection of women’s espadrille shoes today at the PariPari Online Store and find your perfect pair!