The coolest espadrilles on the market
Words: Alex Woodhall
Summer style can be a frustrating affair. A balancing act between looking cool and maintaining a comfortable temperature, pared-back ensembles are the order of the season with individual warm-weather wardrobe essentials the key to any successful outfit. That said, as you shift your closet with the change in the clime, your footwear should follow suit.
Whilst brogues, Chelsea boots etc. are a timeless option all year round, some seasonally appropriate shoes are obviously the best accompaniment to those shorted looks; none are more fitting than the casual espadrille. These versatile, rope-soled slip-ons are hard to beat during the height of summer and can be worn as well with some lightweight tailoring, as with a pair of shorts and a shirt. Just never wear them with socks; it’s on a par with the cardinal sartorial sin that is socks and sandals, gentlemen.
MULO
This reimagined, more refined take on this summer essential from British brand Mulo adds some structure to the slip on and a more substantial sole for additional comfort. Constructed on the last of an Oxford shoe, they maintain the simple charm of the espadrille but ready it for the purposes of the modern man.
Suede Slip-On Espadrilles, £115.00 from Matches Fashion
JIMMY CHOO
Add a luxury touch to your summer attire with a pair of crocodile embossed, leather espadrilles from famed cordwainer Jimmy Choo. The sumptuousness of the upper is superbly juxtaposed with a traditional stitched jute sole that typifies the style; making these the highest-end take on the piece we’ve seen this season.
Crocodile-Embossed Leather Espadrilles, £325.00 from Mr Porter
RIVIERAS
An almost hybrid between espadrille and loafer, Riviera’s cotton shoes are the ultimate in holidaying footwear. Whether you’re strolling sandy beaches or cobbled Italian streets, it’d be a serious sartorial error not to have a pair of these in toe. The navy and red colourway can add a restrained pop to the most basic of summer ensembles.
Cotton Slip-On Shoes, £50.00 from Mr Porter
TOPMAN
Stand out stylishly by mixing some print into your warm weather wardrobe in the form of these striking shoes. The bold diamond print will undoubtedly make a statement for the rakish gentleman that takes them, adding a talking point to any look they grace – best paired with a neutral heavy look though.
Bora Blue Diamond Print Slip Ons, £32 from Topman
KURT GEIGER
Upgrade your seasonal style with a tactile touch and these butter-soft suede espadrilles from footwear connoisseurs Kurt Geiger. A traditional espadrille in form and function, the addition of some luxury napped-leather in a versatile tan colourway makes these a must-buy.
Kurt Geiger Pablo Suede Espadrilles, £65.00 from Selfridges
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