Espadrilles are the classic sandal you NEED in your wardrobe this summer

Best espadrilles — (Image credit: @dolorescfr, @lovely_amusan, @val_lovesfashion)

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The best espadrille wedges
The best espadrille flats

While sandals undoubtedly come in so many shapes and styles, I say there’s one sandal in particular that unofficially signifies summer, and one that you need to stock up on right now. It’s the sandal you’re sure to spot at least one person wearing at every spring wedding and that you’ll find in nearly every suitcase come summer. Of course, it’s the classic espadrille.

First worn in Spain as far back as 2000 BC, it’s no wonder the espadrille is synonymous with summer when you take into account its mediterranean roots. But, while it may have come from humble beginnings, the espadrille has risen to new heights in recent years, not only as the go-to shoe for summer day dressing and events, but also in its appeal to both high end designers, such as Celine and Chanel, and the high street alike - who are consistently re-imagining this shoe in exciting new ways.

If in the past, you’ve found yourself shying away from the espadrille in fear it would appear too twee, you’re in for a surprise as for 2024 there’s an espadrille to suit all styles. While classic lace up wedges are a forever staple for the espadrille purist, this season also sees more decorated styles sandals step into the limelight at Jimmy Choo and John Lewis. For lovers of this season's must-have Mary-Jane, Sam Edelman have re-imagined the espadrille with an on-trend twist in the form of their velvet buckled flats or for those intent on enjoying a euro summer try an oh-so-cute slingback style.

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If you’re wondering how to style the espadrille in 2024, don’t think you have to play it safe. While espadrilles and summer dresses will always be an easy choice, they’re also the perfect pairing for linen suits in the office, or, try a pair of espadrille flats with your best straight leg blue jeans for an easy day look. Pairing them with white denim, will create a fresh spring feel and don’t be afraid to look for styles with added details like buckles or embellishment to keep things interesting.

Ready to get shopping? Here’s our edit of the best espadrille wedges and espadrille flats to shop right now. Now roll on summer…

The best espadrille wedges

Mint Velvet Flatform Espadrille Sandals

Hermes Elda Espadrille

Castaner Carina 60 canvas wedge espadrilles

Jimmy Choo Amatuus Black Nappa Latte Wedge Sandals with Pearls

LK Bennett Maureen Gold Metallic Leather Espadrilles

John Lewis Kassie Leather Buckle Flatform Wedge Espadrilles

Ralph Lauren Hilarie Burnished Leather Espadrille

Gucci Damita broderie anglaise canvas espadrille wedge sandals

The best espadrille flats

Manolo Blahnik Hangrilla Light Cream Cotton Espadrilles

Castaner Jean Flat

Penelope Chilvers Low Mary Jane Dali Espadrille

Manebi Cotton Crochet Double Sole Espadrilles Yucatán

Prada Logo crochet espadrilles

Boden Ankle Tie Flat Espadrilles

Zimmermann Sol Espadrilles

Missoni Elle Espadrilles

Jazzria Harris is a freelance fashion and beauty journalist with over 8 years experience working in the industry. At just 4ft 11, she’s an expert in petite dressing and previously wrote the column Jazz’s Short Stories giving tips and advice on dressing for petite proportions. Her wardrobe staples are a great black blazer, a hardworking slip skirt and of course a great pair of heels (for the extra inches, of course). Jazz has written for publications including ELLE UK, heat magazine, Eliza, Women & Home and more.