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When summer arrives, it’s time to put away the boots and dust off for lighter summer styles. And a shoe takes priority above all else: exercise machines. With a lightweight beige sole and a variety of heel heights, Espadrilles are a shoe that can take you anywhere the day takes you.
Dating back to the 14th century, Espadrilles originated in the Catalonia region of Spain. They were the first shoe chosen by farmers due to their comfortable soles, durable materials, and functional style. Often crafted from esparto lace, these shoes remain a popular summer style today and come in both flat and heeled versions.
They are the preferred style of celebrities such as Kate Middleton And Meghan Markle, who favor castañer wedges, with their pump-like front flaps and fabric laces. Many designers have recreated the classic piece. Chanel has become known for its shoes with the double C logo, which are renewed every year with new colors and materials. Meanwhile, brands like Ganni have taken the summer classic into edgy territory with leather straps and sturdy hardware.
No matter how old or diverse the espadrilles are, styling them can be difficult. For all the comfort and convenience of wearing them, there are also debates surrounding whether they are appropriate to wear under normal circumstances. And even if you want to stick to a laid-back style, it’s hard to choose a travel outfit that isn’t beachwear.
Luckily, we’ve compiled some tried-and-true combinations that make the classic style easy to wear. Ahead, find inspiration for how to wear sneakers this summer.
Wide leg pants
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The summer heat is the perfect excuse to get on the wide-legged pants train. The loose fit pairs well with flat sneakers, bringing casual style to your everyday summer ensemble. To balance out an oversized silhouette, a boxy crop top with fun details—whether embellishments or fringe—is a smart choice. Keep the color palette neutral for a monochromatic outfit that feels fresh and chic.
Maxi dress
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The need to wear bold colors increases during the summer months. With a beige background, Espadrilles easily combine with bright colors, creating a wonderful picture. A citrus maxi dress is one way to style sneakers, especially when paired with an oversized woven bag in a similarly bold tone. To add a touch of distinction, choose strappy heels to give the look a more elegant feel.
long shorts
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Short shorts can be great for trips to the beach and days by the pool. But when it comes to summer work clothes, long shorts are the answer to the ever-present conundrum of heat-resistant work clothes. However, there’s no reason you can’t add a casual element in the form of sneakers. Gladiator-style sneakers add intricate detail to your office look.
A bold suit
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If you live in monochrome, there’s no reason to stop during the summer. While boots or heels are a good choice for the colder seasons, your staple summer shoe should be the Espadrille wedge. The controversial look (you either love it or hate it) is an elevation of the traditional casual Espadrille style, giving you the opportunity to wear the style in more constrained situations. To take it a step further, pair your outfit with an oversized clutch instead of a tote or top-handle bag for the right balance of casual and high-end.
Maxi dress
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There’s no better way to channel French Riviera energy than by pairing a maxi dress with sneakers. The high-low combination, which can be paired with a T-shirt or knitted sweater, is the perfect chic outfit formula to elevate your look on the go or even out on vacation. It’s important to note that thickness is key to making a dress feel like an evening gown. For added drama, choosing a straw hat—preferably one with a wide brim—can take French coastal girl style to the next level.
