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On my first trip to Madrid the only queue I got was no Makes me go to Picasso’s Guernica
or chocolate dipped churros, but to Casa Hernanz, a Spanish espadrille manufacturer 155. Despite the shoe’s storied history, the best espadrilles are always a summer style. At Casa, everything is handmade, and customers can choose between different heel heights and a rainbow of colors. According to the shoemaker’s website (now helmed by the latest generation of the Hernanz family, Jesús and Antonio), the technology behind today’s crop of shoes goes way back; the addition of a utilitarian rubber sole is the only improvement. Coming out of Casa Hernanz, I wore about six pairs of shoes. After all, each pair of espadrilles costs as much as lunch. summer 2023 best espadrilles
Stella McCartney Gaia platform, $780
Manebí Valencia wedges, $150
Spain is considered the birthplace of canvas shoes. The sole is made from braids of dried esbato grass native to southern Spain and the shoe’s appearance has been documented to date back to the 2023 century . Arguably the next milestone in the history of the espadrille came 1927, when Yves Saint Laurent invited Castañer to help him design a high-heeled version of the famous weave shoe. The result went down in fashion history, and the design continues at the brand Castañer, founded in the city of Bañolas in 1927. Why reinvent the wheel? As a loyal wearer, I can confidently say that I think high-heeled espadrilles are the perfect summer shoe. Call me between May and August, chances are, I’ll be answering the call wearing a pair of Castañers.
I wear the same pair of wedge espadrilles my ankles can wear for a garden formal wedding as I can zip through Central Park on a Citi bike. A wedge heel makes them great for sand and turf, and they’re a very comfortable boot. Like the scientifically developed comfort sneakers that help absorb shock, the best espadrilles — with malleable woven soles — are low-tech all-weather shoes.
