People say that trends come in cycles. One minute it’s all about flares and the next it’s skinny jeans. As soon as you’ve got to grips with where to find your favourite figure-hugging skinny fit it’s back to flares again, and you wish you hadn’t had the great wardrobe clear out of 2007.
Some trends will reappear consistently, and as a result will always be in style. Espadrilles originated in 1865 in Europe but became fashionable in America in the 1940s. They were most notably worn by Lauren Bacall’s character in the 1948 movie Key Largo, who sported some lace-up designs when she starred with Humphrey Bogart. The more modern wedge shaped espadrilles were first popularised by French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent at a trade fair in Paris.
The trademark look of the espadrille is in the jute sole. The manufacturing process is generally more complex than other type of sandals and requires machine braiding, shaping, heat pressing and stitching. Wooden heels are then added and further jute braids are added to create an authentic and long-lasting base.
OBIstudio maintain this traditional way of working and make all of their shoes in Spain, where craftsmen and women have spent generations perfecting their technique. The result is well-made and incredibly stylish espadrilles that are unrivalled on the high street.
Excited to try some on for size? Here are our top picks;
Electra Khaki
This wedge style espadrille is perfect for a casual daytime look and is the perfect khaki shade to compliment any neutral outfit. Add some colour to a simple white sundress or turn your work chinos into a weekend shopping outfit.
Electra Nude
These shoes are so gasp-worthy that they’ve almost sold out online. If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on a pair then we advise you wear them as often as possible. Just think of the jealous stares you’ll get from strangers! Seriously though, these beauties are bang on trend in this dusky pink shade and add the wow factor to the most boring of outfits.
Electra Zebra
Sometimes a plain shoe just isn’t going to cut it. If you’re instantly drawn to eye-catching prints then this pair of zebra inspired platforms will be right up your street. We love the metallic gold accents which glimmer in the sun, and we can’t wait to style these with a little black dress for clubbing on holiday. We can taste the pina coladas already! If you’re planning on staying in the UK this summer don’t fret; they look equally as sharp with some ripped black jeans and a masculine fit blazer.
Aretha Black
We love the lace up detail on the toe of these black espadrilles as well as the traditional, quality stitching on the heel. The 60mm platform gives a substantial lift but without the discomfort of a regular style heel, and the hydraulically pressed soles are hardwearing as well as beautiful. The lightweight ribbon can be laced up around the ankle which looks gorgeous worn with your favourite wide leg culottes or cropped jumpsuit.
Thea Cognac
Summer holiday sandals are on everyone’s shopping list at this time of year, and it can be tempting to head to Primark and stock up on throwaway styles that last a matter of days before they become unwearable. Instead of repeatedly purchasing poor quality items, we are firm believers that investing a little more pays off in the long run. These orange leather wedge sandals are a classic slip-on design and will add a pop of colour to your vacation outfits year after year.
Aretha Black Leather
If you’re not a regular sandal lover – or just need a full shoe for when you missed your last pedicure – these black leather espadrilles will fit nicely into your wardrobe. We reckon these are the ultimate off-duty shoes that add the designer edge to an everyday outfit. Wear with your comfiest boyfriend jeans and linen shirt for a Sunday afternoon walk, or throw on with a basic t-shirt dress for a light and airy summer look.
