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Espadrilles have been a mainstay of summer wardrobes for decades and while they are considered a must-have fashion item, the 14th century Spanish footwear hailing from the regions of Catalonia and Basque Country were originally designed as workwear for people who required cheap and practical shoes. Possessing an elegant yet casual style, espadrilles feature a sole made of rope (traditionally esparto rope, nowadays jute) and an upper generally made from either cotton, canvas and leather. Whether flat or high-heeled wedge, espadrilles will complement any outfit.
If you’re a conscious shopper and after the perfect pair of espadrilles that meet your ethical and sustainable standards, we’ve curated this list of consciously-made espadrilles to make your shopping that much easier.
1. Crossed Camel flat espadrilles
Conscious shoe company ALOHAS have an entire range devoted to gorgeous espadrilles that are designed in Barcelona and ethically manufactured in Spain by talented artisans. They even have a range of vegan espadrilles made of fabrics such as cactus leather.
The ultra chic Crossed Camel leather espadrilles are handcrafted by artisans in Spain and their flat design makes it a versatile sandal for travel, work and everywhere in between.
Price $153. Available in a broad selection of colours including tan and black. Get yours here.
2. Castaner wedge espadrilles
Castaner have been designing and crafting espadrilles for over 90 years using esparto and natural jute for the sole, and other natural fibres. Little has changed over this time, with Castaner remaining true to their Spanish heritage and the craftsmanship of shoes are owed to expert Spanish artisans still using traditional techniques. These closed toe wedge espadrilles are made of cotton canvas and rubber sole, and features a braided heel design as well as ankle straps. For timeless and authentic espadrilles, you can’t go past Castaner.
Price €125. Available in a broad selection of heel heights (7cm and 9cm) and colours including green, pink and natural. Get yours here.
3. Monica wedge espadrille
The Monica Wedge Heel espadrille slingbacks by TOMS features cotton upper, rope wedge, cushioned insoles made with cotton upper, plant derived and recycled materials, rubber outsole and adjustable leather ankle straps that allow for a more secure fit. A timeless and chic espadrille that can be worn all day at the office, at the beach and to special events.
Price $79.95. Available in 3 1/2″ heel heights and comes in natural or black colours. Get yours here.
4. Men’s espadrilles
If you’re after a pair of men’s ethically-made espadrilles, the men’s flat, closed espadrilles made by ALOHAS comes in a variety of uppers such as leather, suede and canvas. Handcrafted in Spain by talented artisans who are paid fairly for their skills and work, these espadrilles are perfect for the ethically-minded and style-conscious man.
Price $153-$193 depending on fabric and colour. Available in several shades such as suede sand, suede tan, khaki, navy and black. Get yours here.
5. Recycled Espadrille Slingbacks
One of the most popular vegan footwear companies, Will’s Vegan Store produces responsibly-made, sustainable and vegan-only shoes including a range of vegan espadrilles. Our pick of the lot is the Recycled Espadrille Slingbacks which is made from soft canvas uppers made from 100% recycled plastic bottles, natural jute outsoles and a rubber bottom. Made in Spain by a family run factory the shoes, like all of the brand’s products, are certified carbon-neutral.
Price $85 and available in dark blue canvas only. Get yours here.
6. Double strap espadrilles
For extra foot security and comfort, these Double Strap espadrilles from ALOHAS are the perfect everyday pair. Expertly crafted in Spain, these premium quality sandals are designed to last. Available in suede and leather only, no vegan-friendly styles.
On sale now $122-$130 (originally $153). Get yours here.
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Disclosure: This curated list does not fully take into account all ethical considerations that are unique to each individual. Before making a purchase, we encourage you to do your own research paying particular attention to the supply chain and your own particular set of ethics. Prices are correct at time of publishing. For more information, click here. Cover image via ALOHAS.
