The Best Espadrilles for Summer 2018

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Everyone’s favorite summer leisure-time shoe, the espadrille, was actually first worn in the Middle Ages in Catalonia. Because they were made from espardenya grass (from which the French derived the word espadrilles), found in the Mediterranean, they were considered peasant footwear. The upper was usually made of canvas, because it was cheap, and they had laces to keep them attached to the feet.

Fast-forward some 600 years later, and this peasant footwear is now a quintessential summer shoe — comfortable, easy-to-wear, and made of materials that allow your feet to breathe with more coverage than a sandal. Generally, if it has a sole made or decorated with rope (usually jute), you’re looking at espadrilles, but modern styles vary.

Espadrille wedges, for example, give the appearance of leaner legs without having to endure the pain of balancing in stiletto heels. Another popular style is the flat, closed-toe espadrille, perfect for a day of sailing (as they’re similar to boat shoes) or just walking around exploring. And while most of them still come with a canvas upper, designers are also experimenting with fabrics like leather and suede to give this traditionally casual shoe a more formal look.

Here, we round up the chicest espadrilles that will help you vacation in style (and comfort) this summer.

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Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.

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Soludos Lemon Platform Espadrilles

Courtesy of Zappos

When life gives you lemons, make a cute print out of them.

To buy: zappos.com, $75

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TOMS University Classics

Courtesy of Zappos

School may be out, but these canvas University Classic espadrilles are a year-round staple.

To buy: zappos.com, $38

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Superga 2750 Cotropew Sneakers

Courtesy of Zappos

Don’t Kate Middleton’s favorite classic tennies look cool in an espadrille version?

To buy: amazon.com, starting at $48

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UGG Amell Wedges in Canvas

Courtesy of Zappos

From the company that makes your favorite winter boots come equally comfortable espadrilles with feminine ribbon ankle ties and foam insoles.

To buy: amazon.com, starting at $55

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Patricia Green Patti Paisley Wedges

Courtesy of Zappos

We love the hand-printed paisley on these wedges and the adjustable wraparound ankle-tie straps.

To buy: amazon.com, $112

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Tory Burch Colorblock Flats

Courtesy of Nordstrom

The classic black-and-white color combo makes these flats perfect for any occasion.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $195

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ASOS Jacklyn Jacquard Espadrilles

Courtesy of ASOS

We love the pretty floral print of these comfy espadrilles.

To buy: asos.com, $13 (originally $19)

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Eric Michael Jillian Wedges in Red

Courtesy of Zappos

Show off the gorgeous cutout design of the upper by pairing these wedges with a knee-length dress.

To buy: zappos.com, $130

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Soludos Cadiz Espadrille Sandal

Courtesy of Nordstrom

These tan leather sandals are perfect for exploring cities during the day, but can also be worn with a pair of linen pants and a top for dinner and cocktails.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $119

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Vans Authentic Espadrille Platform Sneaker

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Stay on trend with these Vans platform sneakers.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $60

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Sam Edelman 'Karolyn' Espadrilles

Courtesy of Zappos

The vibrant beaded embellishments on these espadrilles are what make them the perfect pair to take on your tropical holiday.

To buy: zappos.com, $80

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Soludos Leaf Embroidered Loafer Mule

Courtesy of Nordstrom

We are completely in love with the gorgeous embroidery of these canvas espadrilles.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $75

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Tory Burch 'Max' Espadrille Mule

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Looking for a pair of comfy shoes to match your boho outfit? These espadrilles feature a cute mule design and an olive green suede upper.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $80 (originally $198)

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Adrianna Papell 'Pamela' Espadrille Wedge Sandal

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Who said espadrilles are only good for casual occasions? This metallic pair is so chic (and comfy), you could wear it to a summer wedding.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $80

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See by Chloé Leather and denim platform espadrilles

Courtesy of NET-A-PORTER

If your feet can’t deal with high heels or wedges, these platform espadrilles are the right choice.

To buy: net-a-porter.com, $235

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Vince Camuto 'Kankitta' Sandal

Courtesy of Nordstrom

These easy-to-wear, strappy white sandals will become your favorite weekend shoes.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $66 (originally $110)

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Soludos Espadrille Slip-On

Courtesy of Nordstrom

The tropical-inspired embroidery of these espadrilles will bring island vibes to your everyday life.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $75

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Castañer 'Carina' canvas wedge espadrilles

Courtesy of NET-A-PORTER

Wear these blush-hued espadrilles with your favorite summer sundress and a pair of shades for the ultimate vacation outfit.

To buy: net-a-porter.com, $125

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Aquazurra Cosmic Stars embellished leather espadrilles

Courtesy of NET-A-PORTER

The unexpected combination of fabrics — luxurious leather and casual jute rope — is a total winner here. Who knew the result could be so chic?

To buy: net-a-porter.com, $357 (originally $595)

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19 Must-have Espadrilles for Summer 2018

1 of 20

Soludos Lemon Platform Espadrilles

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TOMS University Classics

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Superga 2750 Cotropew Sneakers

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UGG Amell Wedges in Canvas

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Patricia Green Patti Paisley Wedges

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Tory Burch Colorblock Flats

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ASOS Jacklyn Jacquard Espadrilles

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Eric Michael Jillian Wedges in Red

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Soludos Cadiz Espadrille Sandal

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Vans Authentic Espadrille Platform Sneaker

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Sam Edelman 'Karolyn' Espadrilles

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Soludos Leaf Embroidered Loafer Mule

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Tory Burch 'Max' Espadrille Mule

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Adrianna Papell 'Pamela' Espadrille Wedge Sandal

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See by Chloé Leather and denim platform espadrilles

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Vince Camuto 'Kankitta' Sandal

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Soludos Espadrille Slip-On

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Castañer 'Carina' canvas wedge espadrilles

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Aquazurra Cosmic Stars embellished leather espadrilles

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