Espadrilhas 2026: The Ultimate Guide to Summer’s Most Nostalgic

Do you remember the first time you slipped on a pair of espadrilles? Maybe it was that breezy summer trip to the beach, a casual garden party, or the moment you realized that heels didn’t have to mean agony. If you haven’t thought about espadrilles in a decade, it’s time to look again. The rope-soled shoe, once the humble worker’s footwear, is staging a major comeback in 2026—and it’s better, bolder, and more sophisticated than ever.

Few shoes divide opinion like the espadrille wedge. A recent poll of the Cosmopolitan UK office confirmed as much, with some dismissing the style as frumpy, while others return to it summer after summer, considering it a staple of warm-weather wardrobes. Yet, as fashion circles back to comfort and quiet luxury, this 700-year-old classic is finding its moment again. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, this is your comprehensive guide to mastering the art of the espadrilha.

What Exactly is an Espadrilha?

Let’s start with the basics. An espadrilha (also known as an espadrille or alpargata) is a shoe characterized by its distinctive sole. Instead of rubber or leather, the sole is typically crafted from natural, rustic materials like jute, rope, or raffia. You’ll find them in several styles: the classic flat, the comfortable wedge (anabela), and the platform.

A Rich History Stretching Back 700 Years

The espadrilha’s story begins in the 14th century in the Catalonian and Basque regions of Spain, where they were worn by farmers, peasants, and soldiers. The name itself comes from “esparto,” a tough grass used to weave the soles. These early shoes were designed for practicality—protecting feet from the heat, cold, and moisture of the Pyrenees mountains.

Fast forward to the 1930s, and the shoe was adopted by Spanish soldiers during the Civil War. It remained the footwear of the working class until the 1960s, when fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent catapulted it into the mainstream. By elevating the sole and transforming it into a high-heeled sandal, he turned a symbol of humble labour into a fashion statement. The 1970s cemented its status as a hippie and bohemian staple, a reputation it carried for decades.

Why Are Espadrilhas Back in 2026?

Fashion is cyclical, but the 2026 revival isn’t just about nostalgia. It’s a reaction to a decade of uncomfortable heels and a post-pandemic shift towards prioritizing comfort without sacrificing style. As Vogue Arabia notes, the espadrilha is making a “remarkable comeback,” appearing in sophisticated versions at fashion houses like Jacquemus and Celine.

The Rise of “Power Casual”

We’re living in an era where “power casual” dominates. There’s a desire to bridge the gap between traditional dressing and a new, non-negotiable expectation of ease. The espadrilha wedge perfectly embodies this shift. As footwear brand founder Penelope Chilvers puts it, “Wedges have always been a favourite of mine because they’re the most comfortable heel without having to compromise on height” .

The Royal Seal of Approval

The style has long been favoured by celebrities, stylish holidaymakers, and even royalty, adding a layer of timeless sophistication to its casual roots. This association with polished, easy elegance makes it a safe bet for a wide range of events.

How to Style Espadrilhas in 2026: 6 Fresh Outfits

Gone are the days when espadrilhas were reserved solely for beachside holidays. Here are six modern ways to wear them, drawing inspiration from recent fashion reports.

1. The Boho Weekend Look

For a relaxed Saturday, pair your espadrilhas with an airy, boho-style skirt. Think white maxi skirts or slip skirts that offer lots of movement, balancing the sturdiness of the shoe. Add a simple linen shirt and a woven bag for effortless off-duty style.

2. The Semi-Formal Wedding Guest

Forget towering, painful heels. A maxi dress with espadrilhas is one of the most fun (and practical) semi-formal looks you can wear in the heat. Choose a sleek pair of espadrilha sandals in a neutral or bold colour to match your dress, and elevate the look with polished accessories. The jute sole also has the practical advantage of not sinking into grass.

3. The Modern Office Outfit

Who says espadrilhas are only for weekends? Flowy satin trousers are huge for 2026, and they pair perfectly with walking-friendly espadrilhas. The natural texture adds a relaxed-chic element that softens more structured workwear.

4. The Family Celebration

You can never go wrong with florals. Pair a floral dress with coordinating woven-soled wedges, statement earrings, and a raffia bag for a “coastal-cool” feel that’s perfect for family meals.

5. The Date Night

Counter to old advice that espadrilhas are too casual for the evening, they can be perfectly dressy. Pair low-heeled espadrilhas with tailored shorts and a relaxed button-down shirt. This “chill-yet-dressy” vibe is ideal for a nice restaurant or bar.

6. The Holiday Getaway

For a beach vacation, the espadrilha is a no-brainer. A relaxed t-shirt, a voluminous skirt, and a pair of espadrilha flats are a foolproof combination for a day-to-night transition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the most comfortable shoe can be ruined by bad styling. Here are some do’s and don’ts for wearing your espadrilhas.

1. Don’t: Wear Them in the Rain

This is the number one rule. The jute and rope soles are not water-resistant. Wearing them in the rain can ruin the material and compromise the structure of the shoe.

2. Don’t: Pair with Formal Wear

While they’ve been elevated, espadrilhas are still inherently casual. They generally don’t blend well with heavy winter fabrics like wool, or with formal business suits and structured blazers. Stick to spring and summer fabrics like linen, cotton, and chambray.

3. Don’t: Choose the Wrong Ankle Strap for Your Body

If you have thicker ankles or calves, be careful with espadrilhas that have multiple straps or ties wrapping around the ankle. This can visually “cut off” your leg and make it appear heavier. Opt for simpler, lower-cut styles or those without ankle ties.

4. Do: Consider the Occasion

While they are versatile, the type of espadrilha matters. A flat espadrilha is ideal for sightseeing and casual strolls, while a platform wedge is better suited for an outdoor lunch or a party. Choose the height that matches your event.

Pros, Cons, and a Balanced Analysis

Like any trend, the espadrilha has its strengths and weaknesses. Let’s break them down.

The Pros

• Unmatched Comfort: Espadrilhas, especially wedges, offer incredible comfort. They provide the height of a heel without the pain, as your weight is distributed evenly across the foot.

• Versatility: They can be styled with dresses, jeans, shorts, and skirts.

• Timeless Appeal: While trendy, the classic design never truly goes out of style. They offer a “quiet luxury” aesthetic.

• Grass-Friendly: Unlike stilettos, wedge espadrilhas are perfect for outdoor events where you might sink into the lawn.

The Cons

• Fragile Soles: The jute sole is not made for wet conditions and can wear out more quickly than rubber.

• Styling Challenges: It’s easy to look dated or frumpy if you style them incorrectly or choose outdated silhouettes.

• Perceived as “Marmite”: They are a divisive style; people tend to love them or hate them.

The Future of Espadrilhas

What can we expect from the espadrilha in the coming years? The trend for 2026 points towards a more refined, almost couture interpretation. Designers are moving away from the overly frumpy styles of the 2010s and experimenting with new materials like satin and leather, featuring a more streamlined silhouette.

We’re seeing high-fashion versions at Burberry and velvet ribbon ties from Penelope Chilvers, indicating that the shoe is shedding its purely “hippie” image. The future of the espadrilha lies in its ability to be both comfortable and highly sophisticated, bridging the gap between a casual shoe and an occasion shoe.

Key Takeaways

• Expect a 2026 Revival: Espadrilhas are back and reimagined, appearing on runways and in street style.

• Dress Them Up: Modern espadrilhas aren’t just for the beach. Style them with maxi dresses, satin trousers, and even for semi-formal weddings.

• Know Your Do’s and Don’ts: Avoid rain, steer clear of formal suiting, and be mindful of styling details that might not flatter your figure.

• Embrace “Power Casual”: The comfort they offer aligns perfectly with modern fashion’s desire for ease and sophistication.

FAQ

1. What is the difference between an espadrilha and an alpargata?
They are essentially the same shoe. “Alpargata” is the Spanish term, while “espadrilha” (or espadrille) is the French term. In Brazil, “espadrilha” is the most common name.

2. Can you wear espadrilhas to a wedding?
Yes! Wedge espadrilhas are increasingly popular for summer weddings and outdoor events. They are comfortable and practical, especially on grass.

3. Are espadrilhas in style for 2026?
Absolutely. Fashion publications like Vogue and Glamour have flagged them as a major comeback trend for 2026.

4. How do you clean espadrilhas?
It’s best to spot clean the upper fabric. The jute soles are fragile, so avoid water. For light marks, a dry cloth or soft brush is ideal.

5. What not to wear with espadrilhas?
Avoid heavy, formal, or winter clothing. They clash with wool suits and structured blazers. They are best suited for casual and semi-formal summer outfits.

6. Are espadrilhas comfortable?
Yes, especially wedge styles. They are widely considered to be the most comfortable type of heel, offering height without the pressure point pain of a stiletto.

7. Who should avoid wearing espadrilhas?
There’s no hard rule, but those with very wide feet may find some European styles too narrow. Also, avoid models with ankle ties if you feel they shorten your legs or make them look thicker.

8. Can you wear espadrilhas with jeans?
Yes, especially espadrilha mules or wedges. They pair beautifully with skinny jeans, cropped wide-leg jeans, and even flared jeans for a retro look.

Sources

1. Wikipedia. Espadrilhas. 

2. Glamour UK. 6 ways to style espadrilles for a fresh take on a nostalgic summer classic. June 2026. 

3. Cosmopolitan UK. Espadrille wedges aren’t frumpy – they’re the comfortable, ‘wear-all-day’ occasion shoe that’s back on-trend. June 2026. 

4. TOMs. How to Wear Espadrilles: Jump into Spring with Style. Jan 2025. 

5. Vogue Arabia. These 3 Footwear Trends Will Replace Sandals This Summer 2026. March 2026. 

6. UOL. Volta das alpargatas: dê férias às sapatilhas e invista no calçado. Feb 2015. 

7. Blog da Flaviana. Espadrilles ou Espadrilhas. 

8. Tentando Fazer Moda. Use e abuse: Espadrilhas.