Few summer shoes have lasted as long as the espadrille. It began as a simple rope-soled shoe from Spain and France, and it has stayed in warm-weather wardrobes because the braided jute sole makes almost anything look relaxed and put together. Most people own one pair and wear it with a sundress, then stop there. The real range is wider: flats for errands, wedges for weddings, platforms with wide-leg pants, leather pairs for the office. Below are 35 complete outfits built around espadrilles, from beach cover-ups to tailored workwear, with notes on which sole height and which strap suits each one.
Matching Espadrille Height to Your Hemline
The first thing I look at when pairing espadrilles is where the hem ends. Sole height and strap style work with the hemline, not against it.
- Flats suit shorts, cropped trousers, mini skirts and knee-length dresses, where the leg already shows.
- Low wedges work with midi skirts and dresses, adding just enough lift to keep the hem from looking heavy.
- High wedges and platforms belong with maxi skirts, palazzos and wide-leg trousers, which need the extra height to clear the ground.
- Ankle ties shorten the leg visually; petite frames look longer in slip-ons or ties wrapped low.
- Closed toes read smarter and suit the office or a shower; open toes and slides lean casual.
Color matters less than people think. Natural jute is a neutral, so a tan or cream upper goes with almost anything, and a bright upper works best when the outfit is plain.
1. White Sundress And Espadrille Wedges
A white sundress lets the texture of a jute wedge do the talking. I'd pick a midi with thin straps or flutter sleeves, then tan or beige wedge espadrilles with ankle ties. Ties that wrap above the ankle bone look best on longer legs; if you're petite, tie them low or choose a version with a single strap so the leg doesn't look cut. A straw tote and a big sun hat finish it for brunch or a market morning, with a cotton cardigan over the shoulders when it's cool.
2. Denim Shorts Crop Top And Flat Espadrilles
Denim shorts, a ribbed crop top and flat slip-on espadrilles never seem to date. Light-wash high-waisted shorts give structure, and cream or beige canvas espadrilles keep the palette soft. Flat espadrilles have almost no arch support, so I save them for short outings rather than a full day of walking. Slim oval sunglasses, a woven crossbody and a fine gold chain are plenty for a picnic or an iced coffee run. For a smarter version, swap the crop top for a linen button-down knotted at the waist.
3. Striped Midi Dress And Lace-Up Espadrilles
A blue-and-white striped midi with lace-up espadrilles has an easy coastal feel. A side slit or tiered skirt gives movement, and the ties wrap the ankle. Vertical stripes lengthen the body, and the rope sole keeps the dress from feeling formal. A rattan circle bag, small hoops and red lipstick finish it. I check the ribbon ties for length before buying; ties that are too short sit at the ankle bone and rub, while longer ones wrap twice and hold better. Wear it to a seaside dinner or a vineyard lunch.
4. Wide-Leg Linen Pants And Platform Espadrilles
Wide-leg linen pants and platform espadrilles solve the dragging-hem problem. Sand, cream or soft olive trousers with a fitted tank or a white tee tucked at the front look clean, and the platform lifts the hem off the pavement. I hem wide-leg linen to just brush the top of the platform, since linen relaxes and lengthens slightly as you wear it. A matching leather belt and a canvas tote finish it for a casual office or an evening walk, with a linen blazer as the sun goes down.
5. Floral Maxi Dress With Tan Espadrille Wedges
A floral maxi has a lot of fabric, and tan wedge espadrilles are the shoe that handles it best. Muted florals in dusty rose, sage or buttery yellow sit well with the natural jute, and the wedge adds height without fighting the print. Tie-up ankles echo the flowing skirt. Gold drops and a beaded clutch make it ready for an outdoor wedding or a garden party. A wedge is also the right heel for grass, since it spreads your weight and doesn't sink.
6. Blue Jeans Blouse And Wedge Espadrilles
Straight jeans with a light blouse are a classic base, and wedge espadrilles make it look intentional. Dark-wash denim with a clean hem right at the ankle bone shows off the shoe, and a puff-sleeve blouse in ivory or pale blue tucked in keeps it neat. The wedge lifts and balances the relaxed jean. A slim belt, a tidy shoulder bag and pearl studs finish it for a casual dinner or a family gathering. Jeans that pool at the ankle hide the jute sole entirely, so a cropped or ankle length works best here.
7. Slip Dress With Espadrilles
Espadrilles take a satin slip dress down a notch for daytime. A midi slip in champagne, sage or soft lilac pairs with flat or low-wedge espadrilles in a neutral, and silky fabric against textured jute is what makes it interesting. A slightly oversized denim jacket over the shoulders handles cool moments, and a minimal leather bag keeps it current. I'd choose a closed-toe or a smooth leather-upper espadrille here; frayed canvas can look too casual next to satin. Wear it to a birthday brunch or a low-key date night.
8. Tailored Shorts Linen Shirt And Leather Espadrilles
Tailored shorts, a relaxed linen shirt and leather espadrilles make a smart-casual outfit that works almost anywhere. Khaki, sand or black shorts with a white or striped linen button-down tucked in look crisp. Leather espadrilles in black or cognac give a more polished finish than canvas, and leather uppers also hold their shape longer. Roll the sleeves, add a slim watch and a structured tote. It's right for a casual workplace, a lunch meeting or a weekend in the city.
9. Floral Wrap Dress And Ankle-Tie Espadrilles
Wrap dresses flatter most shapes, and ankle-tie wedges add a little lift that suits the swing of the skirt. A floral wrap in rayon or cotton voile cinches at the waist, and a small ditsy print in pink, lavender or orange keeps it cheerful. Ankle ties draw attention to the narrowest part of the leg. Gold hoops, a rattan clutch and a low bun finish it. Rayon wraps can shift at the neckline when you lean forward, so I sew a small snap inside. It suits a bridal shower or a daytime wedding.
10. Off-Shoulder Top White Jeans And Espadrilles
Off-shoulder tops say summer, and white jeans keep the look fresh. Tuck a white or striped Bardot-style top into high-waisted white straight jeans and add tan or blush wedge espadrilles. A woven straw bag with leather handles and tortoiseshell sunglasses complete it. Pale espadrilles show dirt fast, especially next to white denim, so I treat the canvas with a fabric protector spray before the first wear. It's a good choice for a sunset dinner by the water or a rooftop bar.
11. Pleated Midi Skirt And Heeled Espadrilles
A pleated midi moves with every step, and heeled espadrilles carry that motion well. A solid sage, blush or navy pleated skirt with a silk or satin cami tucked in looks polished. The heel lifts a longer hem so it doesn't swamp your frame, and an ankle wrap gives a delicate finish. A slim clutch and a simple pendant complete it. Heeled espadrilles with a rope-wrapped heel are surprisingly stable, which makes them a good alternative to stilettos at a summer wedding.
12. Summer Romper With Lace-Up Espadrilles
A romper makes dressing easy, and lace-up espadrilles give it detail. A floral or solid linen romper with a defined waist and slightly relaxed shorts suits cream or tan lace-ups that wrap the ankle. A straw fedora, a crossbody and layered gold bracelets make it vacation-ready. I check the romper length by sitting down; short linen rompers ride up more than you'd think. It's made for sightseeing or a beach lunch.
13. Cropped Trousers Blazer And Espadrilles For Work
Espadrilles can work at the office if you choose the right pair. Cropped tailored trousers in black, navy or beige with a matching or contrasting blazer look sharp, and wedge or low-heel espadrilles in leather or suede keep them approachable. Avoid frayed or distressed canvas for work. A silk shell tucked in completes the base, and the cropped length shows off the jute sole on purpose. A structured leather satchel and minimal gold make it ready for a summer workday.
14. Maxi Skirt Tank Top And Platform Espadrilles
A flowy maxi skirt with a simple tank is breezy, and platform espadrilles give height without the strain of a heel. Paisley, soft stripes or a watercolor floral on the skirt pairs with a fitted scoop-neck tank in a solid color from the print. The platform lifts the hem enough to keep the proportions right. A wide-brim hat, a leather crossbody and wooden bangles give it a bohemian feel for a festival or a flea market. Platforms change your stride, so wear them around the house a few times first.
15. Shirt Dress And Neutral Flat Espadrilles
A shirt dress and flat espadrilles are the easiest summer pairing I know. A knee-length or midi shirt dress in white, chambray or a soft stripe, sleeves rolled and a few buttons open at the collar, sits relaxed. Beige or tan flats keep it comfortable for hours, a woven belt marks the waist, and a canvas tote with aviators adds quiet polish. It's the outfit I'd pack for a weekend getaway when one look has to cover everything. Canvas espadrilles squash flat in a suitcase, so stuff them with socks.
16. Black Midi Dress With Red Wedge Espadrilles
A simple black midi becomes memorable with red wedge espadrilles. A sweetheart, V or square neck on the dress keeps it flattering while the shoes take over. The red against black creates instant interest, and the wedge adds lift without pain. A woven clutch with red stitching and a matching lip tie it together. Bright red canvas can bleed dye when wet, so I'd keep these for dry evenings. Wear it to a gallery opening or a summer dinner date.
17. Denim Skirt And Ankle-Wrap Espadrille Wedges
A denim skirt is a summer workhorse, and ankle-wrap wedges give it a fresher feel. A knee-length or midi denim skirt with a small front slit pairs well with a white or striped tank tucked in. Washed blue reads casual; dark indigo looks smarter. A leather belt, a structured handbag and cat-eye sunglasses finish it. Midi denim is stiff, so make sure the slit gives you enough stride to walk in wedges. It moves easily from errands to happy hour.
18. Linen Jumpsuit With Slide-On Espadrilles
A linen jumpsuit with slide-on espadrilles is about as easy as summer dressing gets. A relaxed fit with a belted waist in oatmeal, olive or faded terracotta, with slides in a matching tone, makes a clean, unbroken line. No ties, no layers. Add a straw hat, round sunglasses and a canvas weekender. Slides don't hold your heel, so they're best for shorter walks and travel days. It's my choice for a flight or a lazy Sunday brunch.
19. Bermuda Shorts Button-Down And Flat Espadrilles
Bermuda shorts are longer and more covered than most, and flat espadrilles keep them from looking heavy. Tailored Bermudas in cream, khaki or navy with a crisp cotton or linen button-down, half-tucked, look relaxed and smart. Flat canvas or leather espadrilles stay comfortable all day. A thin leather belt, a roomy tote and fine gold jewelry finish it. Bermudas that end just above the knee are the most flattering length for most legs; lower and they start to look like capris. Wear them to a museum or a long patio lunch.
20. High-Waisted Shorts Bodysuit And Espadrilles
High-waisted shorts and a sleek bodysuit give a smooth line that lets espadrilles stand out. Paperbag or tailored shorts in a light fabric go with a scoop-neck or square-neck bodysuit in a solid color. The fitted top balances the shorts' volume, and flat or low-wedge espadrilles add texture at the sole. A chunky chain, a mini crossbody and oversized sunglasses give it a street-style edge for shopping or an outdoor concert. A bodysuit keeps the waist smooth under a paperbag waist, which a regular tee can't.
21. Two-Piece Linen Set And Wedge Espadrilles
A pastel linen set in mint, butter yellow or powder blue makes getting dressed simple. A button-front top with shorts or a midi skirt both work, and neutral wedge espadrilles add height without pulling focus. A woven market bag, fine gold and fresh makeup keep it light. Pastel linen shows sweat at the underarm, so I'd pick the mid-tone version of the color if it's humid. It's a vacation outfit for resort breakfasts and coastal dinners.
22. Boyfriend Jeans Cardigan And Platform Espadrilles
Boyfriend jeans are slouchy, and platform espadrilles give the looser fit a bit of lift. Light-wash boyfriends cuffed at the ankle go with a fitted knit cardigan buttoned as a top. Black or cream platforms add structure, and a slim belt with a structured mini bag keeps the proportions tidy. The cuff should end just above the ankle bone so the platform shows. It's best in late spring and early fall, finished with pearl studs and a red manicure.
23. Mini Skirt Blouse And High-Wedge Espadrilles
A mini skirt with high-wedge espadrilles is playful and lengthens the leg. An A-line or wrap mini in a solid or small print gets a puff-sleeve or tie-front blouse tucked in. High wedges give real height but stay walkable because the rope-covered wedge spreads your weight. A small top-handle bag, layered necklaces and soft waves finish it. With a short hem and a tall wedge, I keep the top more covered so the look stays balanced. Wear it to a rooftop bar or a birthday dinner.
24. Palazzo Pants Halter Top And Strappy Espadrilles
Palazzo pants bring drama, and strappy espadrilles anchor them. Wide, flowing palazzos with a fitted halter top show off the shoulders. Thin leather or fabric ankle ties add a delicate contrast to all that volume. Here a heel isn't optional: the wide legs need the lift to avoid swamping you, so hem the pants to the heel height. Statement earrings, a clutch and a bold lip finish it for a summer party or an evening at a resort.
25. Eyelet Midi Dress And Closed-Toe Espadrilles
An eyelet midi feels sweet and nostalgic, and closed-toe espadrilles give it a polish open sandals can't. A white or ecru fit-and-flare eyelet dress goes with closed-toe espadrille flats or low wedges in a warm neutral. The closed toe makes it right for a bridal shower, a baby shower or a nice lunch out. A structured rattan bag, pearl drops and a pastel manicure finish the vintage feel. Closed-toe espadrilles can feel warm on hot days, so I'd pick a pair with a breathable cotton lining.
26. Paperbag Shorts Camisole And Lace-Up Espadrilles
Paperbag shorts and lace-up espadrilles both draw attention to shape, one at the waist and one at the ankle. Shorts in sand, blush or olive with a silky cami tucked in highlight the waist, and matching lace-ups add texture. A cropped denim jacket over the shoulders and a woven bucket bag keep it relaxed. If the shorts are short, I'd keep the ties low on the ankle so the leg line stays long. Good for an outdoor dinner or a winery visit.
27. Wrap Skirt Tank Top And Espadrille Slides
A wrap skirt and a tank make a clean base, and espadrille slides keep the look minimal. A midi wrap skirt in rust, olive or black with a white or matching tank tucked in looks pulled together. Slides with one wide strap across the foot slip on in seconds and show plenty of jute. A pendant, a leather tote and sculptural gold hoops finish it. Watch the wrap opening when you walk; a deep overlap stops it flashing open in wind. It works for a commute or a casual Friday.
28. Cropped Flare Jeans Blouse And Wedge Espadrilles
Cropped flare jeans have a retro feel, and wedge espadrilles fill the gap between hem and ground. White or light-wash cropped flares with a crisp poplin blouse, half-tucked, look fresh. The wedge creates a long, unbroken line from the flare to the floor. Tortoiseshell sunglasses, a camel tote and a gold coin pendant finish it. The flare should end at or just above the ankle; a longer flare covers the wedge and loses the shape. Wear it to a lunch meeting or a gallery opening.
29. Sweater And Straight Jeans With Closed-Toe Espadrilles
Espadrilles aren't only for heatwaves. A light cream or heather gray sweater with straight jeans and closed-toe espadrilles in leather or suede makes a good early-fall outfit. A relaxed sweater with ribbing or balloon sleeves, loosely tucked into mid or dark denim, works best. A wool fedora, a leather satchel and a loose scarf complete it. Suede espadrilles darken and stain in rain, and jute soles soak up puddles, so check the forecast. Ideal territory: apple picking or a dry fall walk in the park.
30. Linen Blazer Trousers And Leather Espadrilles For Work
A full linen suit in summer is a strong look, and leather espadrilles keep it from feeling stiff. A matching linen blazer and wide-leg trousers in taupe, ivory or soft sage, with a silk cami or fine knit shell, looks sharp. Leather espadrilles with a wedge or low block heel keep it polished but seasonal. A structured leather tote and a slim leather-strap watch are enough. Linen suits wrinkle at the elbow and lap, which is part of their character; steam before a meeting. Right for a casual office or a terrace business lunch.
31. Monochrome White Outfit With Cream Espadrilles
All white looks expensive, and cream espadrilles soften it. White tailored or cropped wide-leg pants with a white blouse, tank or light knit keep it tonal, and cream wedges or low platforms add depth. The texture change, smooth fabric against nubby jute, is what keeps it interesting. A tan leather belt and a woven straw bag add gentle contrast, with gold jewelry and oval sunglasses. I'd keep this outfit for venues without grass or dust; white espadrilles are hard to clean. Wear it to a summer party or a smart lunch.
32. Wedding Guest Floral Dress And Embroidered Espadrilles
Espadrilles are a comfortable choice for summer wedding guests, and an embroidered pair feels special enough for the day. A floral midi in soft colors goes with wedges that have floral embroidery or ribbon ties. Pick a color shared between the dress and the shoe embroidery so the two read as one look. A beaded clutch, pearl drops and a light wrap for the evening finish it. The wedge gives you height for photos and comfort for hours of dancing, which stilettos rarely manage on a lawn.
33. Beach Kaftan Cover-Up And Flat Espadrille Sandals
A kaftan or crochet cover-up over a swimsuit with flat espadrille sandals takes you from the sand to the bar. Sheer or semi-sheer white, turquoise or a tropical print, with flat thong or slide espadrilles, keeps it easy. A wide straw hat, big sunglasses and a woven beach tote carry the rest. When lunch calls at the beach club, you'll look ready without a full change. Keep jute soles away from the waterline, since salt water stiffens and frays them.
34. Utility Jacket Skinny Jeans And Platform Espadrilles
A utility jacket adds structure, and platform espadrilles soften it with natural texture. An olive or khaki jacket over a white tee and dark skinny jeans makes a streamlined base. Tan or black platforms add height and a lighter touch against the rugged jacket. Roll the sleeves, add a brown leather crossbody and aviators. Skinny jeans should end right at the ankle so the platform has room to show. It's a good choice for in-between weather or a road trip.
35. Matching Linen Set And Neutral Slide Espadrilles
A linen set, a camp-collar shirt with relaxed shorts or wide-leg pants, with neutral slide espadrilles, is the easiest two-piece summer formula. One color, soft olive, sandy beige or faded sky blue, keeps it simple. Wear the shirt open over a white tank or buttoned and half-tucked for a neater line. Matching slides keep it relaxed, with a straw tote and a sun visor. On a boat, choose slides with a rubber-coated sole, since plain jute slips on wet decks. It's made for resort breakfasts, boat days or exploring a coastal town.
Jute Soles, Rain and Getting the Size Right
Espadrilles are simple shoes with a few quirks, and knowing them makes a pair last for several summers instead of one.
Keeping the rope dry
Braided jute soaks up water like a sponge. Wet jute swells, loses its shape and can unravel or grow mildew if it's put away damp. I check the forecast before wearing natural soles and choose a pair with a rubber layer under the jute for wet grass or city streets. If they do get wet, stuff them with paper and let them dry slowly at room temperature, never on a heater. Never put them in the washing machine; spot-clean canvas with a soft brush and a little mild soap, keeping the rope as dry as possible.
Sizing canvas versus leather
Canvas uppers stretch with wear, often noticeably in the first week, so I buy canvas espadrilles snug, even a little tight across the toes. Leather and suede give less. Ankle ties should be long enough to wrap twice and knot without pulling, or they rub at the bone. Flat espadrilles have very little arch support, so if you'll be walking all day, slip in a thin cushioned insole.
One Rope Sole, Thirty-Five Directions
Espadrilles have lasted because they sit right between casual and polished. Flat canvas slip-ons for errands, platform wedges for garden parties, leather ankle-tie styles for weddings: each one changes the mood of the clothes above it. These 35 outfits run from beach cover-ups to tailored office looks, and they all put comfort first. Pick the sole height that fits your hem and the occasion, keep the jute dry, and one good pair will carry you through most of the summer.
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