Slip on lightweight espadrilles as the weather warms
A shoe that has been around for at least five centuries, the espadrille has been found on the feet of royal soldiers, mining workers, peasants and the seaside set. Originating out of the Pyrenees region, which straddles Spain and France, espadrilles are a classic spring and summer shoe, known for their lightweight, breathable materials and easy slip-on nature.
While there was a time when espadrille factories thrived and there was barely a foot throughout the Mediterranean and South America that didn’t know this classic shoe, these days there is only one factory remaining in France that manufactures by hand and using old machine methods.
Espadrilles from classic label Espadrij are handmade in a small village in the French Pyrenees – and Brisbane lads can pick them up in timeless shades of marine, olive, bordeaux and noir at Angus Black. This traditionally crafted variety features canvas uppers and jute soles, made all the more sturdy by the addition of water-repellent rubber to withstand dismal weather conditions.
If you prefer your footwear a touch more modern and edgy in design, try Soludos espadrilles, which feature a range of bright and patterned fabrics. The creation of Nick Brown, Soludos was founded to fill the espadrille-less void in New York City and recreate the comfortable shoe Nick had known throughout summers in Spain as a kid.
Image via Street Etiquette.