1. Introduction
Espadrilles are the summer shoe I recommend most, because a woven jute sole works with almost anything light and breathable. They started as simple rope-soled canvas shoes worn by workers in southern Europe, and today you'll find them as flats, wedges, ankle-tie styles and chunky platforms. The shape you choose matters more than the color: a flat suits shorts and errands, a wedge gives a long skirt the lift it needs, and a platform balances wide trousers. Below are thirty outfits I'd build around a pair, from sundresses and linen sets to denim and satin, with notes on what to pair and what to watch for.
1. White sundress with espadrilles
A white sundress lets the rope sole become the main texture of the outfit, which is exactly why I like it. Pick cotton or linen in a midi or knee length; anything synthetic gets clammy in real heat. Flat or low-wedge espadrilles in beige or tan keep the palette soft. A wide straw hat, a woven tote and small gold hoops are all it needs. It handles a morning market and a casual lunch without changing a thing.
2. Denim shorts and espadrilles outfit
Cut-off shorts with espadrilles is the weekend uniform, and it looks deliberate when the details are tidy. High-waisted light-wash shorts with a slim ribbed tank tucked in give a clean line. Lace-up ankle-tie espadrilles in black or navy add some contrast; just tie them above the ankle bone, not on it, or they rub after an hour. A canvas crossbody keeps your hands free. Roll the shorts hem once so the fraying doesn't look neglected.
3. Maxi skirt with espadrilles
With a printed maxi skirt, the wedge is doing a practical job: it lifts the hem just enough to stop it collecting dust and catching under your heel. Rayon or cotton voile moves well and stays cool. Tuck in a plain white or cream tank so the print has somewhere to rest. A thin leather belt shows the waist, and longer pendant necklaces pull the eye up from all that skirt. I'd wear it to a rooftop dinner or a market at sunset.
4. Cropped jeans and espadrilles outfit
Cropped jeans show the whole shoe, which makes them ideal for an espadrille wedge or a lace-up. Straight or slim legs ending just above the ankle bone give the cleanest break. A soft pastel or floral blouse with a loose front tuck keeps it light. Neutral wedges lengthen the leg here more than flats would. A structured leather crossbody and small studs make it neat enough for a casual Friday at work or a coffee date.
5. Wrap dress and espadrilles
A wrap dress pulls in at the waist and opens into a V at the neck, a cut that suits a lot of body shapes. A knee-length floral or polka-dot wrap dress in cotton or viscose stays fresh in the afternoon. I'd go for flat espadrille sandals in ivory or taupe so the pattern stays the focus. One thing to check: viscose wraps can slip open when you sit, so a hidden snap at the cross point is worth adding. A straw clutch and drop earrings suit a bridal shower or a dinner by the water.
6. Midi skirt with espadrilles
Midi skirts and espadrilles need the right length to work together. I look for a hem that falls at the narrowest part of the calf, because a midi ending at the widest part makes a flat shoe look heavy. An A-line in cotton or linen moves well. Tuck in a crew-neck tee or a sleeveless knit, add a thin braided belt and a canvas tote. Flat or low-wedge pairs both work at this length, from a gallery visit to an outdoor lunch.
7. Wide-leg trousers with espadrilles
Wide-leg trousers in crepe or a linen blend drape over an espadrille wedge in a way that looks polished without trying. The trouser hem should just cover the top of the wedge, with the toe visible; any shorter and the leg looks cropped by accident. A fitted sleeveless blouse tucked in balances the volume below. Sand or caramel wedges add height that keeps you comfortable over a long day. Finish with a slim belt and a structured bag for a creative office or a dinner reservation.
8. Floral maxi dress with espadrilles
A floral maxi dress with wedge espadrilles makes a long, unbroken line from shoulder to floor. Adjustable straps or a smocked bodice help the fit, since a maxi that's even slightly too long will drag. A bright botanical print in cotton or rayon looks good against plain jute. I'd pick ankle-tie wedges in a solid color from the print and carry a straw bag. It suits a garden party or an evening stroll by the sea.
9. Linen pants and espadrilles outfit
Linen trousers and espadrilles are both made from plant fibers that breathe, so on a humid day this is the coolest outfit here. A relaxed straight leg in oatmeal or stone, with a fitted tank or a sleeveless linen shell, keeps it simple. Flat beige espadrilles carry the tone down to the floor. A leather belt and a large straw tote finish it. Linen creases and that's fine; it's what you want for a travel day or breakfast at a resort.
10. Denim mini skirt with espadrilles
Platform espadrilles under a short denim skirt add height that balances the short hem, and the rope texture stands out against crisp denim. A raw-hem blue wash with a light shirt knotted at the waist is my default. Platforms take a little practice on uneven paving, so I'd walk in them at home before a city day. A slim belt, a small crossbody and fine layered necklaces finish it for a festival or a day exploring somewhere new.
11. Off-shoulder top and shorts with espadrilles
Off-shoulder tops only work if the elastic holds, so I always lift my arms in one before buying. Cotton eyelet or linen breathes and has enough body to stay put. Tuck it into high-waisted tailored shorts in ivory or khaki. Tan wedge espadrilles lengthen the legs and keep the warm palette going. A straw visor or wide hat and a woven clutch suit a beachside lunch or an outdoor concert.
12. Tiered midi dress with espadrilles
A tiered midi dress has volume built in, so I keep the shoes light: flat espadrilles with thin ankle ties. Cotton poplin in a solid pastel or a tiny floral looks crisp rather than fussy. Tiers add width at the hem, which is why I avoid heavy platforms with this one; they make the bottom half look bottom-heavy. A small woven crossbody and pearl studs keep it refined for a baby shower or afternoon tea.
13. Palazzo jeans with espadrilles
Palazzo jeans have a wide, swinging leg that needs some height underneath, so platforms or wedges are a must; flats let the hem drag. A high-waisted medium wash with a striped button-down tucked in gives a crisp, Riviera-style feel. I'd hem these to just skim the ground with the shoes on. A cream structured bag and small gold hoops suit a long lunch or a gallery opening.
14. Matching two-piece set with espadrilles
A matching two-piece set makes dressing quick and packs small. Linen shorts sets, crop top and skirt pairs, or a shirt and trousers all work, as long as the fabric suits heat. Mint or soft terracotta looks fresh. Tie-up espadrilles in a neutral tone let the set lead. Wear the pieces separately on other days and one set covers three outfits on a trip, from brunch to sightseeing to a casual dinner.
15. Jumpsuit with espadrilles
A jumpsuit is one piece, so the waist detail is what keeps it from looking shapeless. I look for a self-tie belt or elastic, in cotton or a lyocell fiber that drapes and breathes. Olive, navy or cream look smart. Flat or low-wedge espadrilles keep the line clean. A leather watch, a pendant and a structured tote finish it for a travel day or a casual office. Check the torso length before buying; too short and it pulls every time you sit.
16. Cotton shirt dress with espadrilles
A cotton shirt dress is the most practical dress for heat, and espadrilles give it a summer feel in seconds. The collar and buttons add structure while the loose cut keeps air moving. White or blue stripe is the classic choice; roll the sleeves once. A slim leather belt gives you a waist, and flat tan or black espadrilles keep it relaxed. A canvas bucket bag suits errands or a casual outdoor event.
17. Crochet top and skirt with espadrilles
A crochet crop top and a high-waisted midi skirt bring three natural textures together with jute underfoot. Crochet is usually sheer, so I check it in daylight and add a nude bandeau if needed. A flowing rayon or linen skirt balances the more rigid stitch. Flat or platform espadrilles in a warm neutral keep the earthy palette. A few fine gold necklaces and a woven bag suit a beach bonfire or a vacation dinner, and you don't need color or print to make it interesting.
18. Button-down shirt and shorts with espadrilles
An oversized button-down with tailored shorts is borrowed-from-the-boys dressing done neatly. Crisp white or pale blue cotton with a few buttons open at the neck stays cool. Tuck in only the front so the shirt doesn't swamp the shorts. Flat beige or tan espadrilles are comfortable for a full day. A leather belt and a watch give it structure for a casual office or a weekend exploring.
19. Gingham dress and espadrilles outfit
Gingham has a picnic-ready charm that suits summer, and its neat checks look good against rough jute. A midi or mini in blue-and-white or black-and-white checks is the classic route. I'd pick tie-up ankle espadrilles for a playful note or flat slides for easy wear. A straw basket bag and small hoops fit the vintage mood. It works for a farmers' market, Sunday brunch or a casual outdoor wedding.
20. High-waisted shorts with espadrilles
High-waisted shorts and wedge espadrilles both stretch the leg line, so together they make the legs look long. Paperbag-waist shorts with a self-tie belt in khaki or sand, with a slim ribbed tank tucked in, keep the outline clean. Choose wedges close to your skin tone or the shorts color for the longest look. A structured mini bag and sunglasses make it work at a casual office and for patio drinks after. Proportion is the trick: high waist, fitted top, a little height.
21. Linen co-ord with espadrilles
A linen co-ord is what I'd pack for a holiday where you want to look put together with few pieces. A short-sleeve shirt with wide trousers, or a vest with relaxed shorts, both work. Sand, ecru or pale sage look good in sunlight. Flat espadrilles in a tonal beige keep it in one color family. A woven leather tote and simple gold jewelry are enough for a resort or a casual destination wedding.
22. Oversized shirt and bike shorts with espadrilles
An oversized shirt over bike shorts sounds odd, but it gives full coverage on top while keeping the legs cool. A crisp white or pale blue cotton shirt left unbuttoned over a fitted tank with black or neutral bike shorts is the base. Espadrille mules or slides in tan or black make it look more grown up than sneakers would. A canvas tote and a cap make it practical for an airport day or a coffee run.
23. Maxi dress with espadrille wedges
A full-length maxi with espadrille wedges gives you a long, graceful line, and the wedge stops the hem from dragging. A solid dress in rayon or modal drapes softly. Ankle-tie wedges in a neutral close to your skin tone keep the leg line going. For evening, a bold cuff bracelet and a sleek clutch are enough. It suits a sunset dinner or an outdoor wedding where heels would sink into the grass; wedges spread your weight over the whole sole.
24. Satin slip dress with espadrilles
Satin and jute are complete opposites, and that's why a slip dress with espadrilles looks interesting rather than formal. A bias-cut midi in a jewel tone or champagne hangs well. Flat or kitten-heel espadrilles in a metallic or neutral shade suit it. Satin marks easily with water and sweat, so I'd keep this for evenings. A light linen blazer or a knit cardigan over the shoulders covers you when it cools down. Delicate chains and a small clutch complete it.
25. Striped t-shirt and white jeans with espadrilles
Breton stripes with white jeans is a summer formula that hardly ever goes wrong. Navy and white stripes feel coastal, and white denim keeps everything bright. Ankle-length straight or slim white jeans with a tan belt look neat. Flat or low-wedge espadrilles in beige or navy tie it together. A red lip or a red tote adds a pop if you want one. It's an easy pick for boat trips, seaside lunches or a walk around a harbor town, and it photographs well in bright sun.
26. Tie-front top and culottes with espadrilles
A tie-front blouse with wide culottes pulls the eye to the waist while the culottes give easy room through the hips and thighs. A cropped cotton or linen top and high-waisted culottes in a solid color work best. Culottes cut the leg at mid-calf, which can shorten you, so I always pair them with platform espadrilles. A straw crossbody and sculptural earrings add interest for a museum visit that runs into evening drinks.
27. Crochet dress with espadrilles
A crochet dress needs a lining plan before anything else: a slip or a tonal bikini underneath for coverage. The open stitch breathes well on a hot day. A mini shift or a midi sheath both suit flat espadrilles in beige or cream, which let the crochet stay the focus. A suede fringe bag and beaded bracelets add to the bohemian feel for a beach holiday or a resort dinner. Crochet snags, so I keep jewelry with sharp settings away from it.
28. Puff sleeve top and denim midi skirt with espadrilles
A puff sleeve blouse adds volume up top, so the skirt below should be structured: a denim midi is ideal. White cotton eyelet or soft voile works for the top, tucked into a front-slit denim midi that lets you walk properly. Tan or cognac wedge espadrilles suit blue denim. A leather crossbody and small gold hoops keep it practical for a daytime date or a bridal shower.
29. Chambray shirt and linen shorts with espadrilles
An open chambray shirt over a tank with linen shorts is my favorite light layering trick: the shirt covers your shoulders when the sun is strong and comes off when it isn't. Roll the sleeves and knot it at the waist. Cream or stone linen shorts stay cool. Flat sandy-beige espadrilles finish the soft, beachy palette. A canvas belt and a braided bracelet suit a road trip or browsing local shops.
30. Polka dot dress with espadrilles
A polka dot dress is a cheerful, vintage-inspired choice and jute soles calm the playful print down. A wrap or A-line cut in black-and-white or navy-and-white cotton is the classic version. Wedge espadrilles with ankle ties and a structured rattan bag add a retro touch. Red lipstick and cat-eye sunglasses push it further; I'd stop there so it doesn't turn into a costume. It suits a garden party or a daytime wedding.
How Espadrilles Should Fit on Day One
Canvas and jute both give with wear, so a new pair should feel snug, not tight, across the widest part of your foot. If there's already a gap at the heel in the shop, it will get worse. I always try them on in the afternoon, when feet are a little bigger after a day on them.
- Flats: your toes shouldn't touch the front, and the heel shouldn't lift out when you walk quickly.
- Wedges: check that your heel sits fully on the back of the sole. A wedge that's too long tips you forward.
- Ankle ties: wrap them above the ankle bone and knot at the side or back, not on the bone, where they rub.
- Platforms: walk on a hard floor and on carpet. If they feel clumsy indoors, cobbles will be worse.
The stitching where the canvas meets the rope can rub the first few times. A small piece of plaster on the back of your heel for the first couple of outings saves a lot of pain.
Arch support is minimal in most espadrilles, especially the flat ones. They're fine for a lunch or a short wander, but for a long sightseeing day on hard ground I'd choose a wedge with a cushioned footbed, or pack a pair of sneakers for the walk home.
Rope Soles, Rain and Wet Sand
The jute sole is the weak point. It soaks up water, goes dark, and can lose its shape or start to smell if it stays wet. Most modern espadrilles have a rubber layer under the rope, which helps on pavements, but the sides of the sole are still exposed. I treat them as dry-weather shoes and swap to sandals for wet grass or a rainy forecast.
If they do get wet, stuff them with paper and let them dry at room temperature, away from a radiator or direct sun, which can crack the jute. Brush off sand and dirt with a dry, soft brush. Canvas uppers can be spot-cleaned with a little mild soap and water on a cloth, but never put espadrilles in the washing machine; the glue holding the sole can give way.
Light canvas shows marks quickly. A fabric protector spray applied before the first wear helps the uppers shrug off small spills, though it won't make the rope waterproof.
Flat, Wedge or Platform: The Pair to Buy First
If you're buying one pair, I'd go for a low wedge in a neutral close to your skin tone. It works with shorts, midi skirts, maxis and wide trousers, and it's easier to walk in than a tall platform. A flat pair is the next buy, for errands and travel days. Whatever you pick, look at the hem length of what you'll wear it with, keep the rope soles dry, and the same shoes will see you through the whole summer.
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