Welcome to The Essentials (opens in new tab), our weekly series highlighting a must-have classic, key to building a timeless, pulled-together closet.
Espadrilles are the ultimate summer shoe. Worn flat or with a heel, these woven sandals are all about sophisticated ease. For proof, just look to classic Hollywood films—think Lauren Bacall in Key Largo and Grace Kelly in To Catch a Thief—that gave espadrilles the gold stamp of approval. These past few seasons, we've seen the espadrille trend expand, but it was Salvatore Ferragamo who originally put them on the map. In the '30s and '40s, the Italian shoe designer made use of materials such as raffia and cork, according to the MoMA's Items: Is Fashion Modern? (opens in new tab). Then, in the '70s, Yves Saint Laurent released his own take on the shoe, turning the traditional flat into a wedge—and a modern trend was born. Today, designers send this woven shoe down the runway in many iterations. Shop our favorites for 2022, below.
Want espadrille wedges that go with every outfit? Opt for an ivory pair like this sweet and feminine style from Castañer. Fun fact: Kate Middleton owns a pair of espadrilles from this label.
Your basic ballet flats just got a stylish upgrade. This flat is hand-stitched by local artisans in Alicante, Spain and has removable ankle straps for a quick little design change.
Try this canary yellow pair of espadrilles for a sunny pep in your step.
This three-inch wedge sandal will give you a boost in height without forcing you to stand precariously on tiptoes. This is the perfect all-occasion shoe, suitable for those summer 2022 weddings or future resort vacations.
A leather basketweave texture and earthy cream tone makes this so an evergreen style, so you can rock it well into fall, alongside your favorite maxi skirt, when the temperatures start to dip.
This timeless wedge espadrille from Soludos will remain in your shoe rotation for seasons to come. It comes in four different colors, though our favorite hue is this midnight blue hue.
This logo lace-up pair from Chloé is perfect for the city girl.
A pair a step above the rest. This jeweled pair from Roger Vivier is sure to be a showstopper.
Bright your day with these statement making rainbow rope espadrilles adorned with Valentino's signature pink rock studs.
Pair these with a flower studded sundress for the quintessential springtime look.
-
Our Favorite New K-Dramas on NetflixGet ready for a year of highly anticipated dramas.
-
The 10 Best Fragrances of All Time, According to Marie Claire Editors
Stop and smell the florals.
-
When Are We Getting a New Season of 'The Witcher'?
Filming for the third season of Netflix's fantasy epic is already underway.
-
The 18 Best Denim Jackets for Women in 2022
I want them all.
-
The 21 Best Watches for Women in 2022
The real MVP of your outfit.
-
The 10 Types of Boots for Women to Invest In
You'll have these pairs for life.
-
Why Can't You Wear White After Labor Day? A History
The history behind this arbitrary dress code is not only unconvincing, but incredibly classist.
-
Fashion Test Drive: Celine's Teen Besace Bag
Our Style Director takes Celine's new bag out for a spin.
-
The 14 Best Laptop Bags for Women, According to Editors and Experts
They'll carry everything you need, and look good doing it.
-
The Latest Rendition of the Hot Pink Trend? Barbiecore
The color is everywhere in 2022.
-
The 18 Best Leather Jackets for Women in 2022
Will take them all, thanks!
