The espadrille is a classic summer shoe, instantly evoking images of sun-drenched beaches and casual strolls. But for the modern, discerning dresser—the minimalist who invests in special pieces or the professional who needs polish from 9-to-5 to weekend, a beautiful pair of handcrafted espadrilles deserves a bigger stage.
Our limited-edition, small-batch espadrilles are more than just beachwear. Handcrafted with care by talented artisans in Kenya, they offer a clean, unique pop of texture and colour that instantly elevates an outfit.
Here is the secret to dressing up your espadrilles and integrating them into your year-round capsule wardrobe.
1. The Power-Casual Statement (For the Professional)
This look takes the espadrille from relaxed weekend shoe to polished office staple (in dress-code-appropriate environments). It’s all about creating an intentional contrast: pairing the handcrafted texture of the jute and canvas with sharp, structured pieces.
- The Espadrille Choice: Use a limited-edition printed espadrille (like leopard or a bold wax fabric print) to add a modern pop of colour and texture. This shoe is the unexpected accessory that keeps the look fresh. (Link to Limited Edition Printed Espadrille Collection)
- The Outfit: Pair them with a beautifully tailored cream, white, or beige trouser suit (or matching blazer and wide-leg trousers). The goal is to let the crisp, neutral lines of the suit showcase the vibrancy of the shoe.
- The Magic: The ensemble speaks to your values: the structured tailoring ensures you maintain a polished, authoritative presence, while the artisan-made espadrille grounds the look with authenticity and a unique story. It's the ultimate blend of professionalism and personality.
2. The Vivid Pop of Texture (For the Minimalist)
Your signature style is defined by clean lines, quiet luxury, and a commitment to quality over colour. The secret to making a simple, monochromatic look feel expensive and intentional is layering complementary textures. This look is perfectly aligned with a core capsule wardrobe.
- The Espadrille Choice: Opt for a premium leather or a classic, clean canvas espadrille in a neutral shade like cream or off-white. The texture of the jute sole will be the subtle contrast to the flat fabric. (Link to Plain Leather or Canvas Espadrilles)
- The Outfit: Use a simple, beautifully crafted white knee-length dress in cotton or linen. The focus should be on the quality of the fabric and the clean silhouette, avoiding distracting details.
- The Magic: The simplicity of the colour palette (white and cream) makes the natural textures—the crispness of the cotton/linen and the handwoven jute of the shoe—the central focus. Your espadrille grounds the outfit, turning a humble summer dress into a sophisticated, intentional uniform that exudes effortless, high-quality style.
3. The Modern Holiday Evening Look (For the Creative)
Whether you’re attending a sophisticated evening event or a dinner party, the espadrille can replace clunky heels or predictable flats for an artistic, intentional feel.
- The Espadrille Choice: Opt for a premium leather espadrille or a high-quality, ankle-tie canvas design. The key is a clean, minimal look, avoiding busy patterns here. (Link to Leather and Ankle-Tie Espadrilles)
- The Outfit: Choose a modern silk slip skirt or a flowing dress patterned or a dress with clean, architectural lines. Add a structured seagrass tote (rectangle or oval shape with brass handles) as a clutch or shoulder bag. (Link to Iringa Seagrass Totes)
- The Magic: The shoe and bag combination introduces an artisanal, handcrafted elegance that is unexpected. The texture of the rope and seagrass is sophisticated when paired with luxurious fabrics like silk or linen.
4. Elevating Weekend Uniforms (The Thoughtful Upgrade)
For those weekend market trips or gallery visits, you don't need to default to sneakers. A high-quality espadrille is comfortable and immediately elevates your casual uniform by adding a curated, intentional finish.
- The Espadrille Choice: Use a classic, plain black or dark-toned canvas espadrille. Its neutral colour and clean lines provide the perfect base for combining patterns and textures. (Link to Classic Black Canvas Espadrilles) and (Link to Classic Blue Canvas Espadrilles)
- The Outfit: Pair a sleek black slip camisole or a fitted knit top with a structured, patterned midi skirt. Alternatively, anchor your look with well-fitting, high-waisted denim, swapping the predictable sneaker for the espadrille's jute texture.
- The Magic: This look is defined by intention. You’ve replaced a throwaway shoe with a handcrafted piece that carries an ethical story. The black espadrille seamlessly ties the upper body to the skirt (or denim), allowing the fabric and the artisan texture of the jute to shine. It signals that even your most casual choices are deliberate, high-quality, and aligned with your values.
Ready to find your perfect pair? Our limited-edition espadrilles are small-batch and handcrafted in rural Kenya, meaning once a design is gone, it’s gone. Shop our current collection and invest in a piece that’s as unique and purpose-led as your personal style.