British summertime calls for an array of sartorial necessities.
Race-ready outfits, chic sunglasses and voluminous frocks to combat the London heat are dusted off and de-shelved en masse when the weather begins to heat up.
Shoes, however, are a different ball game altogether. Trainers are primed for days in-office, while cowboy boots exude festival fun. Yet there’s no denying that one shoe style reigns supreme when the sun starts to shine, and that is the beloved espadrille.
Whether heading off to Ascot or a churchyard wedding, there's bound to be a dotting of espadrilles among the crowd. The shoes come in multiple styles, ranging from the classic flat slip-on to the popular heeled wedge which is so often seen standing trackside.
Not only are they a quintessentially British silhouette, but espadrilles are also highly versatile. Many come complete with tie ribbon detailing, adjustable straps and open-toe designs, making them the ideal choice for those with wider feet.
Podiatrist Dina Gohil says: “Espadrilles can be a suitable choice for summer footwear for those with wide feet, provided you choose the right features.” Gohil, who recently collaborated with digital department store Freemans, breaks down the best features to look for when buying espadrilles for wide feet, adding: “By focusing on these features, individuals with wide feet can enjoy the comfort and style of espadrilles during the summer months without compromising on fit or support.”
Gohil’s recommendations include:
- Width Options: look for brands that offer espadrilles in wide or extra-wide sizes. This ensures a better fit and more comfort.
- Stretchable Materials: choose espadrilles made from materials like canvas or soft leather that can stretch and conform to the shape of your feet.
- Adjustable Straps: espadrilles with adjustable straps or elastic panels can provide a more customised and secure fit, accommodating the width of your feet.
- Roomy Toe Box: ensure the toe box is wide enough to allow your toes to move freely without feeling cramped.
- Arch Support: while traditional espadrilles might lack arch support, look for styles that include a cushioned insole or consider adding an orthotic insert for additional support.
- Breathability: choose espadrilles with good ventilation to keep your feet cool and comfortable during the warmer months.
Discover the best espadrilles, be they flat or wedged, and elevate your shoewear arsenal in time for summer.
Shop now
Gucci GG Platform Espadrille
Gucci’s dreamy denim heeled espadrilles welcome the classic silhouette into the luxury sphere. Featuring the brand’s monogrammed GG insignia, dark trims and a woven base, these designer picks boast an adjustable ivory grosgrain ankle tie for all foot sizes in addition to a mid-rise heel for effortless strolling.
Buy now £575.00, Gucci
Office Marmalade Wide Fit Espadrille Wedges
Heeled espadrilles are an absolute summer staple, not least thanks to their wedged comfort. They can also be worn with a variety of different outfits – from the races to your best friend’s wedding.
These cream canvas wedges from Office’s wide-fit range are a fantastic option if you’re looking for a little more height, while still remaining comfortable.
Buy now £59.99, Office
Penelope Chilvers High Catalina Dali Espadrille
When it comes to espadrilles, Penelope Chilvers is always our first port of call. Beloved by royals and It-girls alike, the brand is never short of beautifully made espadrilles to kick-start summer. The High Catalina Dali espadrilles in a rich shade of cherry are a particular favourite, featuring a chunky jute wedge, an elegant peep-toe and adjustable velvet laces to match the delicate cotton canvas construction. Each pair is authentically made using traditional stitchwork and natural jute in dopamine-inducing tones.
Buy now £149.00, Penelope Chilvers
Reformation Camilla Lace Up Wedge Espadrille
Dainty yet sturdy, Reformation’s Camilla espadrilles will see you through the day with ease. Crafted from 100 per cent recycled lace, the bridal wedges come complete with a delicate white floral print and cut-out detailing to allow your foot to breathe and move with ease.
Buy now £248.00, Reformation
Sam Edelman Maddy Mary Jane Espadrille Flats
Sam Edelman’s Mary Jane espadrilles are a fun, girlish take on the classic kicker. Overarching buckles allow the wearer to tailor the width of the shoe to the foot, while a flat silhouette allows for ache-free walking. A denim blue hue adds a modern twist to the twee style, which can be paired with jeans for chic coffee mornings.
Buy now £140.00, Anthropologie
Sezane Diana Espadrille
Dotted with daisies and ripe for smart summer outings, Sezane’s feminine espadrille heels are cute and covetable in equal measure. Made in Spain and featuring a useful support system with laces wrapped around the ankle, the espadrilles come in a range of prints and pigments for the wearer to choose from. Cotton lining and insoles offer added comfort for those with wider feet.
Buy now £105.00, Sezane
New Look Wide Fit Black Suedette Espadrille Wedge Shoes
Browsing on a budget? Head over to New Look’s wide-range collection of espadrilles for some summer inspiration. These affordable heels feature a smart black suedette finish with contrast stitching and woven decoration. In terms of fit, you’ll find a two-part ankle strap, cushioned padding, softer linings and flexible soles to suit wider tootsies.
Buy now £27.99, New Look
Zimmerman Sol Espadrilles
No brand sparks wanderlust for summers spent Down Under like Zimmerman. The Australian brand is home to a myriad of feminine frocks for summer, so naturally, its shoewear collection is equally as desirable.
The Sol Espadrilles are fully adjustable, crafted from monochrome ribbons to grip the foot depending on how you style them. A soft rubber insole and sole provide comfort and practicality, while the tie-detailing is a fun feature that takes the classic espadrille to a new level of desirability.
Buy now £350.00, MyTheresa
Bobbies Summer Esapdrilles
Step into summer with Bobbies. The brand’s heeled espadrilles, aptly named ‘Summer,’ adopt a traditional espadrille style with a contemporary open-toe finish. Showcasing an uber-wearable beige hue with pale jute detailing and a supple goat leather structure, the easy-wear wedges can be adjusted using the tie ribbons and worn for sun-drunk weddings and European staycays. A leather lining further promises a soft step wherever you go.
Buy now £185.00, Bobbies
Chloé Glyn Espadrilles
There’s no need to choose between sandals and espadrilles with Chloé’s striped slip-ons. A nautical print in blue and cream is paired with gold buckle hardware which can be adjusted to fit the foot no matter the size.
Made in Spain, the espadrilles are a breezy summer option, complete with soft leather lining, a raised jute sole and an open-toe construction for maximum breathability.
Buy now £206.00, MyTheresa
