Shoe Trend: The Cool & Casual Espadrille
Everybody's new summer sole mate.
Whether I'm catching-up with friends over brunch, enjoying a picnic in the park, travelling across the country or simply doing my monthly weekly grocery shop, chances are I'm sporting a pair of espadrilles. Whether they're a pair of slides, flatforms or sneakers, styling your outfit with espadrilles is the coolest and comfiest way to instantly update your summer look.
How to Style the Espadrille Trend
When it comes to pairing your espadrilles with pieces from your wardrobe, you can do pretty much anything. In fact, you might just be surprised by how versatile this trend can be.
1. The sneaker. By far, my most worn espadrille style is the super fresh sneaker. Styled with an oversized shirt and pair of skinny jeans, the espadrille sneaker instantly becomes the perfect travel companion without comprising on style or comfort. To tell you the truth, I'll actually wear them with everything. Plus, they're often designed with a slight platform, so they're also really flattering.
2. The slide. The ultimate beachside staple is the effortless slide sandal, which are made even better with the natural rope look of the espadrille. Pair the slide with your favourite bikini (right now, I'm all about this fabulous style for the bustier ladies) and a lightweight cover-up.
3. The ballet flat. Style a pair of lace-up ballet flats with a pretty summer dressto amp up the look in a feminine yet cool way.
4. The flatform. Chunky, comfortable and fabulous, the flatform espadrille is another must-have style this season (or, if you prefer, the wedged platform sandal). My favourite way to style the flatform is with an A-line skirt or dress, which only makes your legs look all the longer (yes please!).
Where to Buy the Coolest Espadrilles
Manebi. My latest footwear discovery and obsession. Oversized laces and the softest fabrics you'll ever feel (the velvet is INCREDIBLE!), Manebi is fast becoming the must-have espadrille.
Rag & Bone. Last year I splurged on these chunky white leather Rag & Bone espadrille sneakers (over 50% off now - also available in tan suede!) and they're one of my best purchases ever for the sole reason that I wear them everywhere. Their flatforms are another pair that went from wish list to wardrobe.
Soludos. You're guaranteed to find my pair of Soludos classic stripe sandals (also on sale now for less than $40!) packed in my suitcase for every summer holiday. They're feminine yet totally cool.
Nude Footwear. I cannot get enough of my chic navy stripe espadrille slidesfrom Nude with their double buckle detail. They're my new go-to slides!
Sportsgirl. I still remember when I bought my first ever pair of espadrille flatforms from Sportsgirl when I was 18-years-old (I told you I love this trend). They were so loved that I literally wore them until they completely fell apart. I was devastated, but the great news is that they still stock a bunch of fabulous designs from wedges to slides.
Shopbop. For the girl who wants to splurge, since you're going to be wearing them non-stop over the coming months (cost-per-wear, right?). Plus, they stock a bunch of great affordable brands too, like Soludos and Splendid.
What's your favourite style of espadrille?
I'm wearing: Faithfull the Label dress, Lack of Color straw hat, Quay sunglasses, Status Anxiety Plunder bag and Rag & Bone espadrille sneakers.
Location: Singapore Botanic Gardens and The White Rabbit.
Photography by Brad Jarman.