Espadrille Heels

When you think of summer, you think of long walks on the beach. You think of late dinners and early mornings, time spent with your nearest and dearest. And when it comes to shoes, few styles evoke warmth and playfulness like espadrille heels. Classic in their appeal, espadrilles are one of the most comfortable sandal options for those with wide feet. With a sole of natural rope, they also provide plenty of cushioning for anyone looking for an all-day heel.

Let’s get to know the humble espadrille.

What are espadrilles?

The most distinctive feature of espadrille shoes – sometimes referred to as alpargatas – is their sole. The sole of a traditional Spanish espadrille is crafted from esparto rope or braided jute, two natural fibres commonly used to make baskets, twines, and other products. The ropes typically sport their natural hue or are dyed white.

Tucked away under the rope are the soles of an espadrille, which are often made of hardened or crepe rubber. This provides cushioned support for the feet.

Finally, espadrille shoes usually have canvas uppers in a ballet flat, open-toe, or strappy sandal design. You can also find espadrilles with leather and suede uppers.

Incredibly, the earliest known espadrilles date back 4,000 years. They were widely worn by peasants across Western Europe from the 14th Century onwards, making them one of the world’s oldest fashion icons.

Discover your new pair of espadrilles today

You can rely on brands like London Rebel to create stunning espadrilles that reimagine this ancient shoe for the modern woman. Find out more about our shipping and returns policy for total peace of mind.