Summer footwear choices can make or break your warm-weather style. Espadrilles, those rope-soled beauties that scream ‘vacation mode,’ aren’t all created equal. I’ve spent years analyzing what makes some look like gardening shoes while others could strut down Mediterranean boardwalks. Let me walk you through the clunkers to avoid and the stunners to snap up!
1. Platform Monsters That Swallow Your Ankles
Yikes! Those ultra-thick platform espadrilles might add height, but they’re doing your ankles zero favors. The chunky rope platforms create an optical illusion that shortens your legs dramatically.
Though trendy in certain circles, these foot-swallowers make even the slimmest legs look stumpy. Skip these clunky creations unless you’re specifically aiming for that ‘my feet are actually loaves of bread’ aesthetic.
2. Square-Toed Nightmares
Where fashion goes to die! Square-toed espadrilles combine two questionable design choices into one regrettable shoe. The harsh geometric shape fights against the natural bohemian vibe that makes espadrilles special.
However well-intentioned, these boxy-fronted disasters make your feet look like they’re wearing tiny shoeboxes. Trust me, nobody wants feet that resemble shipping containers with rope trim.
3. Multi-Strap Monstrosities
If your espadrilles require an instruction manual to put on, you’ve wandered into dangerous territory. Those designs with seventeen straps, three buckles, and possibly a small padlock aren’t summery—they’re foot prisons!
The excessive strapping creates visual chaos and defeats the breezy simplicity that makes great espadrilles so appealing. Plus, nobody wants tan lines that make their feet look like they’re wearing graph paper.
4. Bulky Back-Strap Behemoths
Though well-intentioned for ankle support, espadrilles with thick, padded back straps look like orthopedic shoes that accidentally wandered into a summer collection. The chunky posterior completely destroys any hint of elegance.
Instead of looking carefree and coastal, these back-heavy designs suggest you’re preparing for a medical procedure. Nothing says “fashion emergency” quite like ankle straps that could double as wrist braces!
5. Heavy Canvas Clod-Hoppers
If your espadrilles could survive the apocalypse, they’re probably too sturdy for summer style. Those made with military-grade canvas that could withstand a hurricane look disappointingly utilitarian rather than breezy.
The overly structured, heavy-duty fabric creates a visual weight that drags down your entire outfit. Nobody wants to look like they’re wearing canvas boats when they should be floating through summer days!
6. Toe-Covering Catastrophes
Whoever decided to create closed-toe espadrilles with excessive fabric bunching around the front missed the summer memo entirely! These foot-suffocating designs create an unfortunate bulbous effect that resembles a cartoon character’s feet.
The awkward gathering of material not only looks clumsy but practically screams “sweaty toes ahead!” Summer footwear should never make your feet look like they’re wearing tiny sleeping bags.
7. Color-Blocked Confusion
Though bold in theory, espadrilles featuring five competing colors in geometric blocks look like art projects gone wrong. The visual noise overwhelms the simple charm that makes espadrilles summer classics.
Instead of appearing stylishly coordinated, these rainbow disasters fight with everything else you’re wearing. When your shoes are having their own identity crisis, they’re unlikely to complement your carefully curated summer ensemble!
8. Plastic Fantastic Failures
Whoever thought combining the traditional espadrille with synthetic jelly shoe material deserved a time-out from design duties! These hybrid horrors offer the worst of both worlds—the bulk of espadrilles with the sweat-inducing properties of plastic.
Nothing says “fashion faux pas” quite like feet marinating in their own perspiration while trapped in non-breathable footwear. These plastic nightmares are essentially miniature foot saunas masquerading as summer shoes!
9. Classic Canvas Slip-Ons
If Audrey Hepburn vacationed on the French Riviera, these would be in her suitcase! Simple canvas slip-on espadrilles in neutral tones represent timeless summer elegance that works with absolutely everything.
The clean lines and minimal design elongate the foot beautifully. I particularly love how these classics transition effortlessly from beach to bistro without missing a stylish beat!
10. Delicate Ankle-Wrap Beauties
Unlike their clunky counterparts, these refined espadrilles feature whisper-thin laces that gracefully wind around the ankle. The delicate wrapping creates gorgeous vertical lines that visually lengthen the leg—a summer miracle!
Though seemingly simple, these ankle-wrap stunners add ballet-inspired elegance to everything from floaty dresses to cropped jeans. The soft ties flutter beautifully with each step, adding movement to your summer strut.
11. Sleek Leather-Trimmed Flats
Who says espadrilles can’t look sophisticated? These refined beauties combine traditional rope soles with butter-soft leather trim for an elevated take on the summer classic.
The contrast between natural jute and premium leather creates visual interest without veering into clunky territory. I’ve worn mine from office meetings to sunset cocktails without a single style misstep!
12. Streamlined Wedge Wonders
Unlike their monstrous platform cousins, these wedge espadrilles feature a gently sloping heel that creates height without visual heaviness. The proportional design maintains the foot’s natural line while adding just enough elevation.
The angled wedge creates a seamless silhouette that flows beautifully from heel to toe. I’ve danced through entire Mediterranean evenings in these comfortable yet glamorous summer staples!
13. Minimalist Backless Slides
For effortless summer chic, nothing beats a perfectly proportioned espadrille slide! These backless beauties feature just enough coverage across the foot without any unnecessary bulk or strapping.
The clean, architectural lines create a modern silhouette that pairs beautifully with everything from linen pants to flowing maxi dresses. Though simple in design, these slides make a strong style statement through their perfect proportions.
14. Soft Suede Sophisticates
Imagine the most buttery-soft suede crafted into espadrilles that feel like walking on clouds! These refined summer shoes elevate the casual espadrille concept through luxurious materials and thoughtful design.
The supple suede creates a beautiful textural contrast against the natural rope sole. I particularly adore how these upscale espadrilles bring understated luxury to even the simplest summer outfits!
15. Barely-There Strappy Sandals
Unlike their over-strapped cousins, these delicate espadrille sandals feature just a few strategically placed thin straps that create beautiful negative space around the foot. The minimal design looks incredibly elegant while remaining summery.
The thoughtful strap placement ensures security without sacrificing style. These airy creations make your feet look like they’re barely touching the ground—the ultimate summer shoe magic trick!
16. Pointed-Toe Perfection
While square toes create visual clunkiness, pointed-toe espadrilles elongate the foot beautifully! The slight taper creates a sleek line that looks incredibly sophisticated while maintaining summer ease.
The elegant shape brings a touch of Parisian chic to the traditionally casual espadrille. I’ve found these pointed beauties pair wonderfully with cropped trousers for a look that’s both refined and relaxed.
17. Scalloped-Edge Sweethearts
These feminine espadrilles feature delicately scalloped edges that add visual interest without bulk. The gentle curves create a soft, romantic silhouette that’s perfect for summer dressing.
The subtle detail elevates these beyond basic espadrilles while maintaining clean lines. I’ve found these pretty scalloped edges add a touch of playfulness to summer outfits without veering into overly cutesy territory!