Is there a more perfect summer shoe that the espadrille? We’d argue vehemently that whilst there is a place for sliders and flipflops, no other footwear straddles style and comfort so effortlessly as the timeless espadrille, all while evoking easy summer days on the coast (not for nothing are they the go-to shoe for TikTok’s ‘tomato girl’ trend). And if they have form, it’s little wonder; they can trace their origins back to the 14th-century, when they first trod the terrain of the Pyrenees region where they were invented.

If they have form, it’s little wonder; they can trace their origins back to the 14th-century, when they first trod the terrain of the Pyrenees region where they were invented.



Traditionally made with canvas or cotton fabric and esparto rope soles, they were worn for their durability and comfort. (The name ‘espadrille’ comes from the Catalan word ‘espardenya,’ referring to the esparto plant used in crafting the soles.) These days, you can still opt for those that channel that same rustic, hardworking simplicity or, instead, plump for something altogether more towering and/or decorative. Whatever your style, these are the best espadrilles for SS24.