A Definitive Guide to Styling Espadrilles with a Preppy Aesthetic
The preppy aesthetic is a timeless style, characterized by its clean lines, classic silhouettes, and a sophisticated yet casual sensibility. It’s a look that effortlessly bridges the gap between old-money elegance and modern-day comfort. At the heart of this style lies a curated collection of foundational pieces: blazers, button-downs, chinos, and polo shirts. But what about footwear? While loafers and boat shoes are the undisputed kings of the preppy shoe rack, there’s another contender that deserves a prime spot, especially when the weather warms up: the espadrille.
Espadrilles, with their distinctive jute soles and canvas or leather uppers, are often associated with vacation style and breezy summer outfits. However, their inherent simplicity and classic design make them a surprisingly perfect match for the preppy wardrobe. They offer a relaxed alternative to more structured footwear without sacrificing an ounce of style. The key to successfully incorporating them is understanding how to pair them with the right pieces and for the right occasions. This guide will walk you through the definitive rules and practical examples for making espadrilles a staple of your preppy outfits.
Mastering the Preppy Palette: Choosing the Right Espadrilles
Before you even think about putting together an outfit, you need to select the right espadrilles. Not all espadrilles are created equal, and some are better suited to a preppy aesthetic than others. The goal is to find pairs that are understated, well-made, and align with the preppy color palette.
- Stick to Classic Colors: The preppy wardrobe is built on a foundation of neutrals and timeless colors. Look for espadrilles in navy, white, beige, camel, and tan. These colors are versatile and will pair seamlessly with almost everything else in your closet. You can also venture into classic preppy shades like forest green or burgundy, but keep these for more specific outfits. Avoid overly bright or neon colors, as they tend to feel more trendy and less timeless.
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Embrace Simple Materials: Canvas is the traditional material for espadrilles and a perfect choice. It’s casual, breathable, and has a natural texture that feels right at home in a preppy context. Leather espadrilles, particularly in a rich tan or brown, offer a slightly more elevated and polished look. These can be great for dressier preppy occasions. Suede is another excellent option, offering a subtle touch of texture and luxury. Steer clear of embellished or heavily patterned espadrilles; the preppy aesthetic thrives on simplicity.
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Consider the Silhouette: Espadrilles come in various styles, from slip-ons to lace-ups and wedges. The most preppy-friendly options are the classic slip-on flats and the wedge espadrille for women. For men, the simple slip-on is the way to go. Avoid overly high platforms or overly complicated designs, as they can detract from the clean and classic nature of a preppy outfit.
The Foundation: Espadrilles with Preppy Wardrobe Staples
Now that you have the right espadrilles, let’s get down to the business of building outfits. The easiest way to start is by pairing them with the quintessential pieces of the preppy wardrobe. These are the building blocks that will make your outfits feel authentic and effortless.
Espadrilles and Chinos: The Ultimate Smart-Casual Combination
Chinos are the workhorse of the preppy closet. They are more polished than jeans but more relaxed than dress pants. Pairing them with espadrilles creates a perfect balance of smart and casual, ideal for a weekend brunch or a casual office environment on a Friday.
- For Men: A pair of classic khaki or navy chinos, a crisp white polo shirt, and a simple pair of tan leather espadrilles is a foolproof outfit. The key is to get the fit of the chinos right—they should be well-tailored but not skin-tight. You can elevate this look by swapping the polo for a light blue button-down shirt, rolled up at the sleeves. Add a woven leather belt to tie the look together.
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For Women: Pair white or beige chinos with a striped Breton top and a pair of navy espadrilles. This outfit is a nod to coastal preppy style. For a slightly more sophisticated look, try a pair of tailored navy chinos with a silk camisole and a lightweight cashmere cardigan draped over your shoulders. Opt for a simple, flat espadrille in a neutral shade like beige or camel.
Espadrilles and Blazers: The High-Low Approach
A blazer is the cornerstone of preppy style, instantly elevating any outfit. When paired with espadrilles, it creates a fascinating contrast between formal structure and relaxed comfort. The trick is to choose the right kind of blazer and keep the rest of the outfit simple.
- For Men: A classic navy or seersucker blazer is the perfect partner for espadrilles. Wear it over a simple white T-shirt and a pair of light-wash straight-leg jeans or tailored shorts. The espadrilles will keep the look from feeling too stuffy. Avoid pairing espadrilles with a full suit or a more formal blazer; the contrast can be jarring.
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For Women: A well-cut navy or tweed blazer over a simple white T-shirt dress or a pair of tailored shorts with a silk blouse is an excellent combination. The espadrilles, particularly a wedge style, will add a touch of feminine charm and keep the outfit from feeling too corporate. This is a perfect look for a spring or summer evening event.
Espadrilles and Shorts: The Quintessential Summer Look
When the temperatures soar, shorts become a preppy necessity. Pairing them with espadrilles is a natural and comfortable choice that feels inherently put-together.
- For Men: The 5-inch or 7-inch inseam short is the preppy standard. Pair a classic pair of Nantucket red shorts with a light blue linen shirt, left untucked, and a pair of canvas espadrilles. This is the quintessential summer weekend look. For something a little more refined, try tailored navy shorts with a polo shirt and a pair of leather espadrilles.
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For Women: A pair of tailored shorts, not too short and not too long, is key. Wear them with a classic white button-down shirt, tied at the waist, and a pair of simple flat espadrilles. Alternatively, a pair of gingham or striped shorts with a simple tank top and espadrille wedges creates a charming, playful outfit.
Expanding the Horizon: Espadrilles for Different Occasions
While the core pairings are essential, espadrilles are more versatile than you might think. With the right styling, they can be adapted for a variety of preppy occasions, from casual weekends to dressier events.
Espadrilles for the Beach Club or Yacht
Preppy style has strong ties to coastal and nautical themes. Espadrilles are a perfect fit for a day by the water.
- The Look: Think light, airy fabrics and classic nautical colors. A pair of white linen pants paired with a navy and white striped shirt and white canvas espadrilles is a perfect example. For women, a flowing maxi dress in a light fabric like cotton or linen, paired with simple wedge espadrilles, is both elegant and comfortable. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat and a chic tote bag.
Espadrilles for a Garden Party or Summer Wedding
Yes, you can wear espadrilles to a more formal summer event, but you need to choose wisely. This is where a leather espadrille or a high-quality wedge comes into play.
- The Look: For women, a floral-print midi dress or a sophisticated A-line dress in a solid color like emerald green or cornflower blue is an excellent choice. Pair it with an elegant wedge espadrille that has a slightly more refined upper, perhaps with a subtle lace-up detail. For men, a lightweight, unstructured suit in a light color like beige or light gray, worn with a linen shirt and a pair of tan leather espadrilles, is a stylish and modern alternative to traditional dress shoes.
Espadrilles for a Casual Date Night
Espadrilles can bring a touch of relaxed romance to a summer date night.
- The Look: For women, a simple slip dress in a jewel tone or a classic black color, worn with a pair of delicate espadrille wedges, creates a look that is both sophisticated and alluring. For men, a well-fitting polo shirt in a dark color like navy or black, paired with tailored chinos and leather espadrilles, is a confident and stylish choice. The espadrilles signal that you are comfortable and relaxed, not trying too hard.
The Devil is in the Details: Finishing Your Look
Flawless preppy style is all about the details. A perfectly put-together outfit can be ruined by a single mismatched accessory. Pay close attention to these finishing touches to ensure your espadrille outfit is impeccable.
Socks or No Socks?
This is a key question when wearing espadrilles. The general rule is: no socks. Espadrilles are meant to be worn with bare feet. The casual, relaxed nature of the shoe is best expressed without the interruption of a visible sock. If you absolutely must wear socks for comfort, opt for no-show socks that are completely invisible.
Belts and Accessories
The belt is a crucial element in a man’s preppy outfit. When wearing espadrilles, a woven leather belt is the perfect choice. Its texture complements the natural vibe of the espadrilles. Avoid dressy, shiny leather belts. For women, a simple leather belt can tie together a look with shorts or chinos. When it comes to jewelry, keep it classic and minimal—a simple watch, a pearl necklace, or a few delicate gold bracelets.
Bags and Totes
Your choice of bag should reflect the laid-back elegance of your espadrille outfit. For a day out, a structured tote bag made of canvas or leather is a great option. For an evening look, a simple clutch or a small cross-body bag is more appropriate. Avoid overly trendy or heavily branded bags that can clash with the timeless preppy aesthetic.
Sunglasses and Headwear
A classic pair of sunglasses is a must-have accessory. Aviators, Wayfarers, or a classic round frame are all excellent choices. For headwear, a simple straw hat or a classic baseball cap (without loud logos) can be a stylish addition to a casual day look.
The Final Word: Espadrilles are More Than Just Summer Shoes
Espadrilles are a wardrobe essential for anyone who appreciates a blend of classic style and modern comfort. By understanding how to choose the right pair and how to style them with preppy staples, you can make them a cornerstone of your wardrobe. They offer a versatile and chic alternative to traditional preppy footwear, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort. This guide has given you the practical, actionable knowledge to incorporate espadrilles into your preppy outfits with confidence and flair. The key is to embrace simplicity, focus on quality, and pay attention to the details. With these principles in mind, you will be well on your way to mastering this effortlessly sophisticated look.