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Espadrilles in street style© Getty Images

Espadrilles are back, and we’ve got the hottest designs for this summer


JUNE 12, 2020 8:52 AM EDT

Espadrilles became a summer must-wear starting in the ‘70s when Yves Saint Laurent worked in collaboration with Spanish company Castañer to make wedge sandals that could be included in the French fashion house’s collection.

They immediately became a hit and almost 50 years later they continue to earn their place among the trendiest choices in street style to make outstanding summer looks. Cool, comfortable, and perfect for boosting your height ever so slightly, these rope-soled sandals are the summer accessory your outfits absolutely need.

Carina Crochet Wedge Espadrilles by Castaner© Mytheresa

Embroidered details

Castañer, the famous Spanish company that helped to internationalize this footwear, launched the glamorous Carina Crochet Wedge Espadrilles—one of the hot trends this summer. The feminine fabric upper and ballet ribbons have a ladylike character complemented by the shoes’ comfort. Mytheresa ($125).

Monrah 2 Espadrille Wedge Sandal by Jessica Simpson© DSW

Animal fierceness

You can even wear the trending animal print on these kinds of sandals. A clear example are the Monrah 2 Espadrille Wedge Sandal by Jessica Simpson, with zebra stripe print on the front. DSW ($54.99).

Tied Espadrille Wedges by Zara© Zara

Influencing from head to toe

The combination of black and beige is one of the most reliable and recurring for the world’s major fashion companies. Zara created this combination in the Tied Espadrille Wedges, which are ideal for your street style this year. Zara ($59.90).

Nadine Wedge by Dolce Vita© Revolve

Walking through the palm trees

The Nadine Wedge by Dolce Vita are covered in raffia palm fiber on both the sole and the straps to give you a light, matching look. They’re all the beach style you’ll need in a single piece. Revolve ($122).

Palmyra Ankle Tie Espadrille Wedge by Gucci© Shop It To Me

A set of textures

Gucci brought together the elegance of leather with the exotic style of raffia in the Palmyra Ankle Tie Espadrille Wedge, which features in the company’s logo in gold lettering on the front. Wear them with midi dresses that let you show off the bow. Shop It To Me ($750).

Cloudfeel Espadrille Wedge by Cole Haan© Cole Haan

Made for you

Wear this year’s representative color with the Cloudfeel Espadrille Wedge, with their elastic bands that comfortably adjust to fit your feet. You can wear them with cropped jeans and paperbag shorts. Cole Haan ($165).

10 mm Clarita Velvet Espadrilles by Alexandre Birman© Luisaviaroma

Feet on the ground

If you prefer flatter sandals that also have an elegant touch of velvet, you won’t want to miss out on the Clarita Velvet Espadrilles by Alexandre Birman. They have simple lines, but very feminine details in the form of bows sure to boost your charm. Luisaviaroma ($208).

Delores Espadrille Wedge Sandal by Ralph Lauren© DSW

Color block

Ralph Lauren was another of the major brands to adopt espadrilles and recreate their style. The Delores Espadrille Wedge Sandal fastens at the heel and ankle, while the sole is balanced so you can walk with more stability and confidence. Thanks to its slightly more casual design, you can combine it with colorful dresses and prints. DSW ($59.99).

Sonora Peep-Toe Suede Espadrile Wedge Sandals by Vince© DSW

Unbalanced cut-outs

The Sonora Peep-Toe Suede Espadrile Wedge Sandals by Vince have cut-out details on the inner side that give them character. Wear them with cream or neutral looks to participate in the single-color trend. Saks Off 5th ($129.99).

Espadrille Wedge Sandals by Pedro Garcia© Farfetch

Easy open

Another pair with a beach vibe—while also comfortable at the same time—are the Fama Espadrille Wedge Sandals by Pedro García, with a velcro strap and rustic sole that will help you tackle any terrain. Farfetch ($253).

How many of these picks will you look radiant in this summer?