{"id":6218,"date":"2020-04-10T17:24:14","date_gmt":"2020-04-10T17:24:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vionicshoes.com\/blog\/?p=6218"},"modified":"2023-05-14T19:20:40","modified_gmt":"2023-05-15T02:20:40","slug":"what-are-espadrilles","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vionicshoes.com\/blog\/what-are-espadrilles\/","title":{"rendered":"What Are Espadrilles?"},"content":{"rendered":"

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As winter turns to spring and spring turns to summer, it\u2019s time to rethink your wardrobe. While many shoes can certainly be worn year-round\u2014such as slip-on sneakers, ballet flats<\/a>, and oxfords\u2014some styles exude a clear summertime vibe.<\/p>\n

The top warm-weather shoes that come to mind are espadrilles<\/a>. You\u2019ve definitely seen them on other people\u2019s feet, and you might even already own a pair of these tried-and-true shoes. Classic espadrilles are some of the most comfortable heels for wide feet<\/a> or anyone looking for a pair of supportive, comfortable sandals<\/a>. But what are espadrilles shoes, exactly?<\/p>\n

At Vionic, we\u2019re dedicated to offering premium footwear with high-quality materials and <\/span>expertly engineered soles<\/span><\/a>. This includes a substantial collection of women\u2019s espadrilles with orthotic cushioning and elevated comfort. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the shoes, including the<\/span> espadrilles origin <\/span>history, evolution, style variations, and what to expect from modern <\/span>and<\/span> authentic<\/span> espadrilles.<\/span><\/p>\n

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What Are Espadrilles Shoes?<\/h2>\n

So, what are espadrilles, and <\/span>and their <\/span>espadrilles origin?<\/span> The primary feature of espadrilles, which are sometimes called alpargatas, is an esparto rope or <\/span>braided jute fibre sole<\/span><\/a>. Esparto is a fibrous grass used to weave cords, baskets, and in this case, shoes. Similarly, jute is a vegetable fiber often used to make rope, twine, and mats.<\/span><\/p>\n

Beneath the ropes, the soles of traditional espadrille shoes are most often made of vulcanized (chemically hardened) rubber or crepe rubber. In some instances, they\u2019re made of heavy foam. Normally, the soles are either the hue of the natural woven fiber or dyed white. Espadrilles typically have canvas fabric uppers, but you can also find them in leather, suede, and faux leather in virtually any color.<\/p>\n

Many espadrilles feature classic braiding or twisted ropes on the soles, but others have more intricate designs. In most cases, the esparto rope or braided jute is glued onto the<\/span> iconic <\/span>sole<\/span> and then stitched to reinforce it. The process of weaving, braiding, gluing, and stitching can be laborious, as most of it is usually done by hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Types of Espadrilles<\/h3>\n

Authentic <\/span>espadrilles<\/span> are available in sandal form, as well as closed-toe styles, including flats, mules, slip-ons, and sling-backs. If you\u2019re looking for a little more elevation, espadrilles wedges and platform sandals are some of the most popular options. Both feature soles that gradually rise in height from toe to heel, but with platforms, the toe is slightly higher. Platforms and <\/span>wedge heels<\/span><\/a> are at the top of the list for the most comfortable <\/span>types of heels<\/span><\/a>. With a natural arch and solid support throughout the entire<\/span> rope <\/span>sole<\/span>, this wedge heel is not only elegant but also practical, making the perfect summer sandals.<\/span><\/p>\n

As an easy, breezy, summer-ready style, espadrilles are generally considered to be a casual shoe. However, they can definitely be dressed up a little when paired with a dress, skirt, or jumpsuit. As one of the more popular types of sandals, where did this style originate?<\/p>\n

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History of Espadrilles<\/h2>\n

Having been around for centuries, espadrilles shoes are by no means a new style. The roots of the rope-soled footwear date back to 14th-century southern France and Spain. Espadrilles get their name from the Catalan term, espardenya (or esparte\u00f1a in Spanish). It\u2019s unclear if espadrilles were named after Espartinas, a city in Spain, esparto grass, or espardenya, which is a type of seafood native to Ibiza. However, the seafood does bear a slight resemblance to jute ropes.<\/p>\n

The first iterations of the shoes aren\u2019t entirely different from some styles you\u2019d see today: flat-soled slip-ons with jute wrapping around the ankle to hold them in place. Historically<\/a>, espadrilles have been worn by women and men, but for at least a century, they were considered to be explicitly peasant footwear. Later on, laborers began wearing espadrilles, after which they became more popular throughout the Mediterranean region.<\/p>\n

Espadrilles shoes didn\u2019t really catch on in the United States until the 1940s. In the 1948 film Key Largo, the lead wore a pair of traditional espadrilles with ankle straps. In the 70s, French designer Yves Saint Laurent launched the first wedge espadrilles shoes, which quickly became a hit in the world of fashion<\/a>. Back in the U.S., the braided jute shoes were popularized again in the 80s after Don Johnson\u2019s Miami Vice character donned a pair.<\/p>\n

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Modern Espadrilles<\/h2>\n

Today\u2019s espadrilles are still a very popular shoe style in Europe, the U.S., and throughout the rest of the world. They\u2019re offered by many footwear companies, especially in the spring and summer, as well as places with year-round hot climates.<\/p>\n

Most espadrilles you see on the market today are comfortable shoes<\/a> for women. But there are some men\u2019s styles, too\u2014usually simple, flat-soled slip-ons. As a warm-weather fashion staple, espadrilles are often worn with everyday summer clothes. Think garden parties, barbeques, shopping, outdoor concerts, and farmer\u2019s markets. Because of their boho look, dressed-up espadrilles make the best beach wedding sandals<\/a> on brides, bridesmaids, and wedding guests. They\u2019re a top footwear pick for travel shoes<\/a>, too. We\u2019re talking cruise ships, island getaways, on the beach, or at the pool.<\/p>\n

Espadrilles can be rocked day or night with a variety of<\/span> summer dress <\/span>outfits. Tie in the natural fiber with a straw hat, rattan bag, or braided jewelry. The style is relaxed yet chic and always comfortable. When considering springtime or casual summer shoes, espadrilles are really a no-brainer.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Espadrilles Care<\/h2>\n

Espadrilles are unlike most types of footwear. Since they\u2019re made from natural materials, caring for them is a little different than other shoes. Here\u2019s what you should know about maintaining espadrilles.<\/p>\n

Some canvas shoes can be washed in a washing machine, but we don\u2019t recommend doing this with canvas espadrilles. While the canvas might hold up OK, the soles will almost certainly become damaged. So, what can you do to clean your espadrilles? If they get dirty, use a damp, slightly soap cloth to gently wipe them down, being careful not to fray the jute.<\/p>\n

Espadrilles shouldn\u2019t be submerged in water. But when you\u2019re out and about, your shoes could get splashed by pool water, ocean tides, or even unexpected summer rainfall. Since espadrilles usually have a rubber sole underneath the jute, you don\u2019t need to worry about them falling apart. Just insert a rolled-up t-shirt or hand towel into the shoes to prevent the uppers from shrinking, and let them air dry.<\/p>\n

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Espadrilles and Orthotic Sandals from Vionic<\/h2>\n

At Vionic, we believe a pair of espadrilles have a place in every woman\u2019s wardrobe. In fact, why not opt for a few pairs in varying styles? Whether you\u2019ve got a tropical vacation, a music festival, a casual summer date night, or a wedding coming up on your calendar, espadrilles are your go-to shoe this season. They\u2019re the perfect stylish addition to any outfit, and you don\u2019t need to worry about foot pain or discomfort.<\/p>\n

Vionic\u2019s classic espadrille shoes for women come in several beautiful styles, each with either leather, suede, or canvas uppers. Some have simple, versatile designs, and others feature delicate detailing for a charming touch. We carry flat-soled espadrilles in sandals and closed-toe designs, as well as wedges and platforms for those who want more height.<\/p>\n

We also offer what we call <\/span>traditional <\/span>espadrille<\/span>-like wedges with basketweave-inspired soles. For a more casual look, Vionic has lace-up sneakers and slip-ons with<\/span> classic <\/span>espadrille-<\/span>infused detailing around the edges. When you browse our collection, we\u2019re confident you\u2019ll find a pair that complements your personal vibe!<\/span><\/p>\n

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Comfort and Style Redefined<\/h3>\n

Both our wedges and flat espadrilles are designed to help you make a statement while avoiding pain and discomfort in your feet. Our trendy styles have built-in arch support and plenty of wiggle room for your toes to prevent foot-related conditions and deformities. As footwear innovators with a passion for comfort, our shoes are all manufactured with exclusive Vio-Motion Support<\/a> technology. With Vionic\u2019s stylish espadrilles, you can rock the timeless braided-sole look and stay comfortable all day with cutting-edge (completely concealed) orthotic soles.<\/p>\n

You don\u2019t have to choose between being fashionable and comfortable. To find your summertime footwear for all occasions, check out our women’s sandals<\/a>, travel shoes, and stylish espadrilles for women<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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SHOP ESPADRILLES<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

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