Espadrilles. The very word conjures images of sun-drenched beaches, breezy linen dresses, and a perpetual vacation state of mind. They are the quintessential summer shoe, a warm-weather staple that’s effortless, comfortable, and undeniably chic. But what happens when the temperatures drop and the golden season fades? Do your beloved espadrilles get relegated to the back of the closet, collecting dust until next year’s first heatwave?
The answer, we’re here to tell you, is a resounding no. The notion that espadrilles are a strictly seasonal shoe is a fashion myth, and it’s time to debunk it. With the right styling strategies and a little creative thinking, you can transform your espadrilles into versatile footwear that complements your wardrobe all year round. This guide is your definitive blueprint for extending the life of your favorite espadrilles, unlocking their true potential, and making them a key player in your non-summer outfits. We’ll go beyond the obvious and dive into practical, actionable advice that will revolutionize the way you see and style these iconic shoes.
The Foundation: Choosing the Right Espadrille
Before we get into the styling, a quick word on the shoes themselves. While any espadrille can be styled for other seasons, some are naturally better suited for the task. Look for pairs with a closed toe, a slightly more structured upper, and a darker color palette. A classic black canvas wedge or a leather-wrapped flat, for example, will be inherently more versatile than a bright floral print with a flimsy ribbon tie. This isn’t to say you can’t work with what you have, but if you’re looking to invest in a pair with year-round potential, keep these details in mind.
Autumnal Alchemy: Transitioning Your Espadrilles to Fall
Autumn is the perfect season to begin the espadrille transition. The air is crisp, but not yet cold, and the shift in color palette from brights to earth tones makes your shoes feel right at home. The key here is layering and material contrast.
1. Ground Them with Darker Tones
The simplest way to make your espadrilles feel more like fall is to integrate them into outfits built on an autumnal color palette. Think rich jewel tones, warm neutrals, and classic denim.
- Concrete Example: Pair a black or navy canvas espadrille flat with slim-fit, ankle-length olive green trousers. Add a slightly oversized cream-colored cashmere sweater, and complete the look with a structured leather tote bag. The espadrilles provide a subtle nod to the warmer days while the cashmere and leather anchor the outfit firmly in fall.
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Actionable Advice: Don’t be afraid to mix textures. The jute sole of the espadrille offers a unique textural element that pairs beautifully with wool, corduroy, and even lightweight tweed.
2. The Sweater and Skirt Equation
For a more feminine and equally comfortable fall look, combine a cozy sweater with a mid-length skirt. The espadrilles act as a balancing element, preventing the outfit from feeling too heavy or stuffy.
- Concrete Example: Take a pair of camel-colored espadrille wedges. Wear them with a pleated midi skirt in a deep burgundy or a rust shade. Tuck in a chunky, cable-knit sweater in a complementary cream or off-white color. The juxtaposition of the chunky knit with the delicate espadrille creates an interesting visual dynamic.
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Actionable Advice: A denim jacket or a lightweight trench coat can be thrown on top for an extra layer of warmth and style. This look works best with closed-toe espadrilles to avoid a visual disconnect with the rest of the outfit.
3. Denim, Denim, Denim
Denim is a year-round staple, and it’s one of the best partners for your espadrilles. The casual, rugged nature of denim provides a great foil for the espadrille’s more relaxed, summery feel, making the combination perfect for a transitional season.
- Concrete Example: Cuff your favorite straight-leg jeans to just above the ankle. Wear a simple white t-shirt and layer a plaid flannel shirt over it, worn open. Finish the look with a pair of classic black espadrille flats. This is a perfect weekend outfit that is both comfortable and stylish.
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Actionable Advice: Experiment with different denim washes and cuts. A dark wash denim provides a more polished feel, while a distressed light wash leans into a more casual, bohemian vibe.
Winter Wonders: Braving the Cold with Your Espadrilles
Styling espadrilles in winter may seem counterintuitive, but it’s entirely possible and incredibly chic. The key is to treat them as an indoor shoe or to strategically use them on warmer winter days. This is not about wearing them in a snowstorm, but rather about leveraging their unique style for specific occasions.
1. The Indoor Look: Winter Events and Parties
Espadrilles can be a fantastic alternative to traditional heels or flats for winter parties and events. Their unique texture and laid-back elegance can add a fresh, unexpected twist to your festive outfits.
- Concrete Example: For a holiday party, wear a velvet slip dress in a deep forest green or black. Instead of pairing it with stilettos, opt for a pair of high-platform espadrille wedges. The contrast of the plush velvet with the woven jute sole is sophisticated and modern.
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Actionable Advice: Keep the rest of your accessories simple to let the combination of the textures and colors shine. A simple gold necklace or a pair of classic stud earrings is all you need.
2. The Layering Masterclass: Tights and Trousers
This is where things get truly interesting. A pair of closed-toe espadrilles can be worn with tights or even socks, creating a unique and fashion-forward winter look.
- Concrete Example: Choose a pair of dark, opaque tights. Wear them with a wool A-line mini skirt and a high-neck sweater. A pair of sleek, black leather espadrille flats can be worn with the tights for a modern, Parisian-chic aesthetic.
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Actionable Advice: For a more casual, everyday look, wear your espadrilles with ankle-length wool trousers and a pair of discreet, thin socks that are either the same color as the trousers or the shoes. This creates a seamless, elongated line and adds a layer of warmth.
3. The Statement Pair: Embracing Textures
Winter is all about texture. The woven jute of the espadrille can be a powerful textural element when paired with other rich, winter materials.
- Concrete Example: Wear a pair of shearling-lined espadrille flats (if you own them) with a pair of structured, wide-leg corduroy trousers. The contrast between the rugged corduroy and the soft shearling creates a cozy, yet stylish, aesthetic.
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Actionable Advice: Don’t shy away from chunky knits. A chunky, oversized cardigan or a thick wool coat can be paired with your espadrilles, creating a “cozy meets coastal” vibe that is surprisingly chic.
Spring Forward: Revitalizing Your Espadrilles for a New Season
Spring is the perfect “in-between” season, where you can start to shed the heavy layers and reintroduce lighter fabrics and brighter colors. Espadrilles naturally fit into this season, but it’s about making them feel fresh and new, not like a carry-over from last summer.
1. The Light and Breezy Approach
As the weather warms, you can start to incorporate lighter fabrics that complement the espadrilles’ breezy nature. Think linen, cotton, and even silk.
- Concrete Example: Pair a classic denim espadrille wedge with a crisp white linen shirt and a pair of tailored, high-waisted shorts in a neutral color like beige or stone. This is a quintessential spring look that feels elevated and put-together.
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Actionable Advice: A lightweight silk scarf tied around your neck or in your hair can add a pop of color and a touch of sophistication to this simple look.
2. The Power of Prints and Patterns
Spring is the time to embrace prints. From delicate florals to bold stripes, your espadrilles can be the perfect neutral ground to let your outfit shine.
- Concrete Example: Wear a floral midi dress with a simple, solid-colored pair of espadrille flats. The espadrilles won’t compete with the busy pattern of the dress, but will instead complement it by providing a grounding, earthy element.
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Actionable Advice: For a bolder look, try a striped t-shirt and white jeans with a pair of brightly colored espadrilles. The stripes will create a graphic element that is balanced by the casualness of the shoes.
3. The Layered Ensemble
Spring weather can be unpredictable. Layering is key, and your espadrilles can be a part of that layered look.
- Concrete Example: Wear a pair of espadrille flats with a simple, ankle-length skirt in a lightweight cotton fabric. Add a basic t-shirt and layer a denim or leather jacket over the top. This combination provides warmth without being heavy and is easily adaptable to changing temperatures.
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Actionable Advice: Don’t forget about accessories. A woven straw bag or a pair of classic sunglasses can help to complete the spring vibe and make your espadrilles feel right at home.
The Maintenance and Care Factor: Extending Their Lifespan
Styling is only half the battle. To ensure your espadrilles last all year long, you need to take proper care of them. The jute sole, in particular, is a delicate material that requires special attention.
- Keep Them Dry: Espadrilles are not meant for rain or wet conditions. Water can cause the jute to unravel and weaken the sole. If they do get wet, let them air dry completely away from direct heat.
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Spot Clean Only: For the canvas or fabric upper, use a mild soap and a small brush to spot clean any stains. Avoid immersing them in water.
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Storage is Key: When storing them for a long period, stuff them with tissue paper to help them maintain their shape. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Beyond the Shoe: Embracing the Espadrille Mindset
Ultimately, getting more wear out of your espadrilles is about more than just what you wear them with. It’s about embracing a certain mindset. It’s about seeing them not as a summer-only accessory, but as a versatile piece of footwear that embodies a relaxed, effortless, and confident style. It’s about being creative and willing to break the rules.
By applying these practical and actionable strategies, you can take your beloved espadrilles out of seasonal retirement and make them a year-round star in your wardrobe. So go ahead, dust them off, and start experimenting. The sun may not be shining, but your style certainly will.