January 31, 2025
How to Wear Espadrilles: Jump into Spring with Style
Trends come and go, but there’s one shoe that has stood the test of time: the mighty espadrille. Originally crafted over 700 years ago in the Catalonian and Basque regions of Spain, these shoes were designed with simplicity and practicality in mind — canvas or cotton uppers with rope soles that could handle just about anything. What started as humble footwear for farmers eventually found its way onto fashion runways and into closets across the globe.
Espadrilles are the perfect transition shoe that’ll take you from the cool days of early spring to those warm late summer nights. But what should you pair with this endlessly versatile shoe? With so many options, it can be hard to know where to start!
In this guide, we’ll talk about how to style espadrilles with your favorite warm-weather items, sharing practical tips and fresh inspiration so you can get the most out of this timeless shoe. Let’s get started!
1. Classic Flat Espadrilles with Shorts
Espadrilles are meant to be spring and summer shoes, so wearing them with shorts just makes sense. The classic flat espadrille design and the casual vibe of shorts feel easy, perfect for warmer days when you want something comfortable and laid-back.
Here’s how to wear flat espadrilles with shorts:
- Athletic shorts: If you want to know how to wear espadrille flats that still capture that athleisure street-style vibe, sporty shorts and flat espadrilles are an unexpected match. Go for neutral-colored espadrilles to tone down the casual feel of the shorts and a simple oversized tee or fitted tank to round out the look.
- Cargo shorts: Espadrilles soften the rugged feel of cargo shorts, which are back this year for both women and men. Stick to earthy tones like khaki or olive and choose espadrilles in a complementary shade, such as tan or cream.
- Jean shorts: A timeless combination that works every time, light-wash denim pairs well with white or beige espadrilles if you’re after a more casual style, while dark-wash shorts can be dressed up with navy espadrilles and a loose linen shirt for a polished touch.
2. Platform Espadrilles with Skirts
While the original espadrille was designed as a work shoe, the style has evolved into something much more fun. Platform espadrilles take that classic look to the next level with the boldness of added height. They’re a perfect match for skirts of any length (yes, really!) and look great for anything from casual daytime looks to slightly more elegant outfits.
Here are a few easy espadrilles outfit ideas with skirts:
- Mini skirt: Playful and eye-catching, the height of the espadrilles balances out the shorter hemline of a mini skirt. Try a fitted mini with a tucked-in blouse or a cropped tee to keep the outfit fun and refined.
- Mid-length skirt: Platforms add the perfect lift to a mid-length skirt, giving just enough structure to keep the outfit balanced. An A-line or pleated skirt works beautifully with neutral-toned espadrilles, and you can finish it off with a fitted tank or a lightweight sweater.
- Maxi skirt: Platform espadrilles add definition to a maxi skirt's long silhouette. Flowy, tiered or fitted styles all go well with platforms, giving the outfit a modern touch. A tied button-up shirt or a fitted tank adds a relaxed yet intentional vibe to complete the look.
3. Espadrille Wedge Sandals with Dresses
For those hot days when the last thing you want to do is put on a pair of jeans, espadrille wedges and dresses are the perfect solution. This combo feels easy and elegant, with the wedge heel offering a comfortable lift and the natural texture of espadrilles giving off a summery vibe.
Here’s how to wear espadrilles with dresses of all lengths and styles:
- Mini dress: Wedges bring balance to the playful feel of a mini dress. Flowy or more structured, the extra height adds polish without overdoing it. Pair a mini dress with neutral wedge sandals, and add a woven bag or bold earrings for a fun, summer-ready look.
- Mid-length dress: A mid-length dress paired with wedges strikes that perfect mix of relaxed and refined. Wrap dresses, A-line cuts or even a lightweight sweater dress all look amazing with espadrille wedges. Throw on a cropped jacket or scarf to pull everything together for cooler spring mornings or evenings.
- Maxi dress: Wedge sandals give maxi dresses an elevated touch — literally. Whether the dress is breezy, asymmetrical or more fitted, wedges keep the outfit grounded and comfortable. Add a belt to cinch the waist, and layer on a simple pendant necklace to complete the look.
4. Heeled Espadrilles with Matching Sets
There’s no easier summer and spring outfit than a matching set, and heeled espadrilles are the perfect way to complete the look. Whether you choose a neutral matching set or a classic blazer-and-shorts combo, this duo works for anything from brunch with friends to weekend strolls.
Here’s what to wear espadrilles with if you’re looking to style them with a matching set:
- Blazer set: Heeled espadrilles soften the sharp lines of a blazer set, whether you’re wearing a tailored blazer or an oversized one. Add a simple tank or fitted top underneath to soften the outfit and keep it perfect for daytime plans.
- Colorful set: A bold matching with heeled espadrilles is a great way to make a statement at a daytime event without trying too hard. Opt for neutral espadrilles to let the bright hues shine, or choose a pair with subtle details like a pop of color or a matching pattern to tie everything together.
- Floral set: Floral sets are the perfect vacation outfit, and pairing them with heeled espadrille adds a modern, grounded feel. Stick to espadrilles in soft shades like cream or blush, and accessorize with a woven bag or delicate layered necklaces.
5. Espadrille Mules with Jeans
The greatest thing about espadrilles is that you can wear them with just about any jeans style, and during summer, a nice pair of espadrille mules will create the perfect casual-but-not-too-casual outfit. The soft heel with the playful textile uppers adds that little extra oomph to your favorite pair of jeans.
Here’s how to wear espadrilles with jeans:
- Skinny jeans: Skinny jeans look amazing with espadrille mules because they elongate your figure and create a streamlined, symmetrical look. Opt for dark or medium-wash skinnies and tuck in a lightweight blouse or fitted tank. A belt and statement earrings will give the ensemble a modern touch that’s perfect for casual dinners or daytime strolls.
- Cropped wide-leg jeans: The volume of cropped wide-leg jeans works beautifully with the height of espadrille mules, showing off the entirety of the shoe. Choose high-waisted styles to emphasize the lift from the mules, and pair with a tucked-in tee or a flowy peasant top.
- Flare jeans: When it comes to mule espadrilles, style them with flared jeans for a retro-inspired outfit. Combine light-wash flares with a simple tank or a fitted crop top for casual plans, or go for darker jeans and a tailored shirt for a more elevated look.
6. Slingback Espadrille with Rompers and Jumpsuits
Comfortable, fashionable and fun — rompers and jumpsuits are an all-time favorite for warmer weather days. However, finding the right footwear can sometimes be a challenge, especially when heels feel too formal, sneakers feel too casual and flats just look…meh. The perfect choice? Slingback espadrilles, which add just enough flair to keep things interesting without feeling overdone.
Here’s what to wear with espadrilles with a slingback design:
- Fun and floral rompers: Stick to neutral espadrilles to balance bold patterns, and keep accessories simple, like a crossbody bag or small hoops.
- Chic, all-black jumpsuits: Slingbacks can add fun contrast to an all-black jumpsuit, making it feel more relaxed but still chic and stylish. Gold accents or a minimalist bag can tie the look together without overpowering it.
- Flowy, off-the-shoulder rompers: Another summer staple, slingback espadrilles complement the soft, romantic vibe of an off-the-shoulder romper. Go for light-colored espadrilles, and add a statement piece like a straw hat or hoop earrings to add the final touch.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Styling Espadrille Outfits
Espadrilles are the quintessential summer look, and their laid-back vibe makes them look great with anything from a classic pair of shorts to a breezy dress or a new pair of jeans. That said, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure your outfits look intentional and put-together.
Here are some do’s and don’ts of styling espadrilles:
Do’s
- Pair espadrilles with seasonally appropriate fabrics like linen, cotton or chambray.
- Use espadrilles to balance proportions, like adding height with wedges or platforms for flowy dresses or wide-leg pants.
- Stick to neutral or earthy tones for a timeless and elegant aesthetic, or go bold with color and patterns for a more daring look.
- Experiment with different styles — flat, platform, slingback or wedges — to find the right match for your outfit and occasion.
- To complement the casual espadrilles aesthetic, keep accessories light and natural, like woven bags, straw hats or nice jewelry.
Don’ts
- Wear espadrilles with heavy, winter fabrics like wool or thick denim.
- Overdo bold patterns or textures that clash with the espadrilles’ natural simplicity.
- Forget to check the weather — the rope-wrapped soles may not hold up well in rain or damp conditions.
- Neglect proper foot care. Espadrilles often show more of your feet, so make sure they’re ready for the spotlight.
- Limit yourself to just one style or pairing — espadrilles are incredibly versatile, so have fun exploring combinations!
Wear TOMS. Wear Good.
It’s not common for a type of footwear to stay in style for hundreds of years, but espadrilles have done just that. But it’s not surprising — they’re comfortable, simple and incredibly versatile. No matter what your style is, there’s an espadrille out there for you.
With every TOMS pair, you’re not only stepping into something timeless and versatile — you’re helping make a difference where it’s needed most. Learn more about our impact and the communities we give back to.
Discover our collection of women’s espadrilles and find the perfect pair today!