Summer 2025 is bringing back the quintessential warm-weather shoe with a fresh twist! Espadrilles, those rope-soled beauties that have danced through Mediterranean summers for centuries, are making a major comeback with designs that’ll make your heart skip a beat. As someone who’s spent years tracking footwear trends, I’m thrilled to share my top picks that’ll transform your summer wardrobe from basic to breathtaking.
1. Rainbow Platform Espadrilles
Though I’ve seen countless summer shoes come and go, nothing captures sunshine quite like these rainbow-striped platforms! The 3-inch height gives you legs for days while the cushioned footbed ensures you won’t be limping home from brunch.
The jute soles have been treated with a waterproof coating – genius for unexpected summer showers.
2. Lace-Up Ankle Espadrilles
Where comfort meets romance, these ankle-wrap beauties reign supreme! Delicate ribbons that tie around your ankles create the most flattering silhouette while the neutral canvas upper pairs with literally everything in your closet.
Yes, they actually stay up all day – I’ve tested them through farmers markets and beach walks alike.
3. Embroidered Floral Flats
If your garden dreams could transform into footwear, they’d become these stunning floral-embroidered flats! Hand-stitched daisies and poppies dance across the canvas upper, creating a walking work of art that draws compliments everywhere.
How wonderful that the artisanal craftsmanship comes from a small workshop keeping traditional techniques alive.
4. Clear Vinyl Wedges
However did we survive before these see-through vinyl wedges entered our lives? The transparent panels create an optical illusion that makes your feet look positively ethereal while the 2-inch wedge provides height without hobbling you.
Unlike most clear shoes, these won’t turn into foggy sweat boxes – the clever design includes tiny ventilation holes!
5. Metallic Thread Espadrilles
Hence my obsession with these gold-threaded beauties that transition effortlessly from beach to bar! The metallic fibers woven through natural jute create a subtle shimmer that catches the sunset just right without screaming for attention.
Magically, they don’t rub or cause blisters even on the first wear – a rare gift in the footwear world.
6. Macramé Detail Slides
Never before have slip-on shoes felt so luxurious! These macramé-detailed slides feature intricate knotwork across the upper that references traditional craftsmanship while feeling thoroughly modern.
While other slides flop around, these stay perfectly attached to your feet thanks to the slightly contoured footbed – no awkward toe-gripping required!
7. Color-Block Canvas Wedges
Though minimalists might hesitate, these bold color-blocked wedges will convert even the most neutral-loving fashionistas! The geometric panels in summer’s hottest hues (think tangerine, cobalt, and lime) create a visual feast that instantly elevates simple outfits.
Surprisingly lightweight despite their substantial appearance, you’ll forget you’re wearing them after five minutes.
8. Raffia-Trimmed Mules
However did designers make backless shoes actually stay on before? These raffia-trimmed mules solve the slip-off problem with a gently elasticized upper that hugs your foot just right.
The natural raffia fringe adds movement and texture while you walk, creating a subtle swish that feels inherently summery and carefree.
9. Hand-Painted Canvas Flats
When mass production leaves you cold, these hand-painted masterpieces will rekindle your love for artisanal footwear! Each pair features watercolor-style brushstrokes that make them true one-of-a-kind pieces – nobody at the beach club will have your exact pattern.
They arrive with a protective spray that keeps the artwork pristine through summer adventures.
10. Denim Patchwork Platforms
Why choose one shade of blue when you can have them all? These patchwork denim platforms combine upcycled jean scraps in various washes to create a textural mosaic that pairs perfectly with everything from sundresses to shorts.
Unlike most platforms, these distribute weight evenly across your foot, preventing that telltale ball-of-foot burn after hours of wear.
11. Braided Leather Espadrilles
Though synthetic materials abound, nothing beats the way these braided leather beauties mold to your feet over time! The intertwined strips create a breathable upper that prevents the dreaded summer sweat while developing a gorgeous patina unique to your wear pattern.
Even better, they’re constructed using vegetable-tanned leather from a sustainable source.
12. Scalloped Edge Wedges
If playful details make your heart sing, these scalloped-edge wedges will be your summer anthem! The wave-like border adds a touch of whimsy to an otherwise classic silhouette, proving that subtle design choices make all the difference.
Despite their delicate appearance, I’ve worn mine through three wedding seasons without a single tear or fray.
13. Nautical Striped Flats
Where would summer fashion be without a nod to sailing life? These navy-and-white striped flats channel maritime vibes without veering into costume territory.
The reinforced toe cap prevents that annoying wear-through that happens with most canvas shoes, while the memory foam insole makes walking on boardwalks feel like strolling on clouds.
14. Crochet Overlay Wedges
How utterly romantic these crochet-covered wedges look catching the light as you stroll through evening markets! The intricate openwork pattern allows glimpses of skin while providing more coverage than sandals – perfect for those not-quite-pedicure-ready days.
Surprisingly, the crochet overlay actually helps the shoes breathe better than solid canvas.
15. Neon-Soled Classics
Though tradition has its place, these neon-soled classics prove that heritage styles can still surprise us! The understated black canvas upper sits atop a shocking pink jute platform that reveals itself with every step – business on top, party on the bottom.
Unlike most bright footwear, these actually complement everything rather than competing with your outfit.
16. Transparent Mesh Flats
While ventilation isn’t usually glamorous, these transparent mesh flats make breathability downright sexy! The honeycomb-patterned upper keeps air flowing on sweltering days while creating an interesting visual texture that elevates them above basic summer shoes.
Hence their popularity with fashion editors who stand all day at events – comfort that doesn’t sacrifice style.
17. Reversible Two-Tone Espadrilles
If indecision plagues your morning routine, these reversible wonders are your new best friends! One side features a subtle beige linen while the other reveals a vibrant coral – just fold the collar down to showcase your mood of the day.
Essentially two pairs for the price (and luggage space) of one – perfect for travelers with limited suitcase real estate.
18. Cork-Infused Platform Espadrilles
Perhaps the most innovative pair on this list, these cork-infused platforms merge two summer staples into one incredible shoe! The jute rope sides are interspersed with cork panels that add textural interest while improving durability and water resistance.
They’re surprisingly lightweight despite their substantial appearance – no ankle strain after a full day of wear.
19. Laser-Cut Leather Espadrilles
When precision meets craftsmanship, you get these breathtaking laser-cut leather beauties! The intricate geometric patterns create ventilation while transforming simple shoes into wearable art that casts amazing shadow patterns on sun-kissed feet.
Unlike most leather footwear, these require zero break-in time – comfortable from the very first wear.
20. Ribbon-Laced Ankle Wedges
However did I live before discovering these ballet-inspired wedges with their graceful ribbons that wind up the ankle? The satin ties can be styled multiple ways – criss-crossed, wrapped, or simply tied in a delicate bow at the back.
Though they look delicate, the ribbons are surprisingly sturdy and stay perfectly tied through hours of dancing.