What Should Women Wear With Espadrilles for the Perfect Look?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Fashion & Style

Espadrilles have long been a beloved staple in women’s footwear, celebrated for their effortless blend of comfort, style, and a touch of laid-back elegance. Whether you’re strolling along a sun-drenched boardwalk or heading to a casual brunch, these versatile shoes add an instant dose of charm to any outfit. But with so many styles and occasions to consider, knowing what to wear with espadrilles can elevate your look from simple to stunning.

From breezy summer dresses to tailored shorts and chic denim, espadrilles offer a unique opportunity to experiment with your wardrobe while maintaining a relaxed yet polished vibe. Their natural materials and distinctive design make them a perfect match for warm-weather ensembles, but they can also be surprisingly adaptable to different fashion moods. Understanding how to pair espadrilles with various clothing pieces can help you create outfits that feel fresh, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the many ways women can incorporate espadrilles into their everyday looks, highlighting combinations that suit different occasions and personal styles. Whether you prefer a casual, bohemian flair or a more refined, modern edge, discovering what to wear with espadrilles will inspire you to step out with confidence and flair.

Pairing Espadrilles with Different Styles of Clothing

Espadrilles are versatile footwear that can complement a variety of outfits, from casual to semi-formal, making them a staple in many women’s wardrobes. Understanding how to pair espadrilles with different clothing styles ensures a cohesive and fashionable look.

When styling espadrilles with casual wear, consider lightweight fabrics such as cotton, linen, and chambray. These materials enhance the relaxed, summery vibe of espadrilles. For example, pairing espadrilles with denim shorts or a flowy sundress creates an effortless, breezy outfit perfect for daytime outings or beach trips.

For a more polished appearance, espadrilles can be matched with tailored pieces. Cropped trousers or ankle-length pants in neutral tones work well, especially when combined with a fitted blouse or a structured blazer. This approach balances the casual nature of espadrilles with a touch of sophistication, suitable for casual office environments or brunch dates.

Maxi dresses and skirts also pair beautifully with espadrilles. Their flowing silhouettes complement the natural texture of espadrille soles, creating a harmonious and feminine look. Opt for floral prints or solid pastel shades to maintain a light and airy aesthetic.

Color Coordination and Accessorizing with Espadrilles

Choosing the right colors and accessories can elevate your espadrille outfit from simple to stylish. Espadrilles come in various colors and patterns, so coordinating them with your clothing and accessories is key.

Neutral-colored espadrilles, such as beige, white, or tan, offer maximum versatility and pair well with almost any color palette. They serve as a subtle base that allows brighter clothing or bold accessories to stand out. Conversely, espadrilles in vibrant hues or with embroidered details can act as statement pieces that draw attention to your footwear.

When accessorizing, natural materials like straw hats, woven bags, and wooden jewelry complement the earthy texture of espadrilles. These elements reinforce a cohesive look that’s perfect for warm weather. Additionally, lightweight scarves or delicate gold jewelry can add a touch of elegance without overpowering the casual charm of the shoes.

Seasonal Considerations for Wearing Espadrilles

While espadrilles are predominantly a warm-weather shoe, understanding how to adapt them for different seasons can extend their wearability.

During spring and summer, espadrilles are at their best paired with breathable fabrics and lighter colors. They provide comfort and style for outdoor activities, vacations, and casual gatherings. For cooler days in spring, layering with denim jackets or lightweight cardigans complements the casual nature of espadrilles.

In early fall, espadrilles can still be worn comfortably with transitional pieces like cropped jeans and long-sleeve tops. However, it’s advisable to avoid wearing espadrilles in wet or cold conditions, as their woven soles and fabric uppers are not designed for inclement weather.

Season Recommended Clothing Color Palette Accessories
Spring Light jackets, sundresses, linen pants Pastels, neutrals Straw hats, lightweight scarves
Summer Shorts, maxi skirts, tank tops Bright colors, whites Woven bags, sunglasses
Early Fall Cropped jeans, cardigans, blouses Earth tones, muted shades Leather crossbody bags, simple jewelry

Tips for Styling Espadrilles for Various Occasions

Espadrilles are adaptable enough to be styled for a range of occasions beyond casual outings. Here are some expert tips to elevate espadrilles for different settings:

  • Casual Daytime: Pair espadrilles with denim shorts or a casual romper. Add a large tote bag and oversized sunglasses for a relaxed yet chic look.
  • Office Casual: Wear espadrilles with tailored ankle pants and a crisp blouse. Incorporate minimalistic jewelry and a structured handbag to maintain professionalism.
  • Brunch or Social Events: Match wedge espadrilles with a midi dress or skirt. A lightweight blazer and statement earrings can add sophistication without sacrificing comfort.
  • Vacation and Beach: Espadrilles are ideal with swimsuits and cover-ups or linen shorts. Combine with a straw hat and beach tote for an easy, stylish ensemble.

By considering the occasion and balancing comfort with style, espadrilles can be a reliable footwear choice across multiple scenarios.

Pairing Espadrilles with Casual Outfits

Espadrilles are a versatile footwear choice that seamlessly complements casual ensembles, offering comfort without sacrificing style. Their signature jute soles and canvas or leather uppers make them ideal for relaxed looks during warmer months.

For everyday casual wear, espadrilles can be paired with the following:

  • Denim shorts or jeans: Light or distressed denim enhances the laid-back vibe of espadrilles. Opt for cropped or rolled-up hems to showcase the shoes.
  • Flowy sundresses: Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen dresses pair beautifully with espadrilles, creating an effortless, feminine appearance.
  • Casual skirts: Midi or mini skirts in neutral or pastel tones work well, especially when paired with a simple blouse or tee.
  • Basic tees and tanks: A crisp white tee or soft tank top balances the texture of espadrilles, ideal for weekend brunch or casual outings.

To elevate the casual outfit, consider accessories such as a straw hat, woven tote, or minimalist jewelry. This maintains the natural, earthy aesthetic while adding subtle sophistication.

Styling Espadrilles for Smart-Casual and Work Settings

Espadrilles have evolved beyond casual wear and can be styled to suit smart-casual or business casual environments when paired thoughtfully.

Key tips for incorporating espadrilles into elevated looks include:

  • Choose espadrilles with refined materials: Leather, suede, or embellished styles look more polished than traditional canvas.
  • Pair with tailored trousers or culottes: Wide-leg or cropped pants in neutral tones create a balanced silhouette when matched with espadrilles.
  • Opt for structured tops: Blouses, button-down shirts, or lightweight knitwear add professionalism without stiffness.
  • Incorporate blazers or light jackets: A fitted blazer complements the casual nature of espadrilles, elevating the overall ensemble.
Occasion Recommended Espadrille Style Suggested Outfit Components
Casual office day Leather closed-toe espadrilles Cropped tailored pants, silk blouse, blazer
Smart-casual brunch Wedge espadrilles with ankle ties Midi skirt, fitted knit top, statement earrings
Creative work environment Suede espadrille flats Wide-leg culottes, patterned blouse, lightweight cardigan

Seasonal Considerations and Color Coordination

While espadrilles are primarily associated with spring and summer, they can be adapted for transitional seasons with appropriate styling and color choices.

Color coordination tips:

  • Neutral tones such as beige, taupe, white, and navy offer maximum versatility and pair well with most outfits.
  • Pastel shades work well in spring to complement florals and light fabrics.
  • Earthy hues like olive, rust, and mustard add warmth and are suitable for early fall.
  • Bold colors, such as red or cobalt, serve as statement pieces that brighten monochrome or neutral outfits.

Seasonal adaptations:

  • Spring/Summer: Lightweight dresses, shorts, and skirts in breathable fabrics are ideal. Espadrilles with open toes or wedges enhance comfort and style.
  • Early Fall: Pair espadrilles with cropped jeans or trousers and layer with light sweaters or jackets. Opt for espadrilles in darker shades or suede textures to align with autumnal palettes.

By thoughtfully selecting colors and complementary garments, espadrilles can become a year-round staple that balances casual charm with seasonal appropriateness.

Expert Styling Advice on What To Wear With Espadrilles for Women

Clara Jensen (Fashion Stylist and Creative Director at ModeMuse). Espadrilles are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with light, airy fabrics. For a chic daytime look, I recommend pairing them with flowy midi skirts or linen trousers. Neutral tones or pastel shades complement the natural texture of espadrilles, creating an effortlessly stylish ensemble perfect for spring and summer outings.

Dr. Elena Morales (Textile and Apparel Researcher, University of Fashion Sciences). When selecting outfits to wear with espadrilles, consider the shoe’s casual yet refined aesthetic. Espadrilles work best with breathable fabrics such as cotton, chambray, or lightweight denim. For women, pairing espadrilles with cropped pants or casual dresses enhances both comfort and style, maintaining a balance between relaxed and polished.

Rina Patel (Wardrobe Consultant and Author of The Seasonal Style Guide). To elevate espadrilles for more formal occasions, I suggest combining them with tailored shorts or a structured jumpsuit. Accessories like woven handbags or straw hats complement the espadrille’s summery vibe. Avoid overly heavy or dark fabrics, as espadrilles shine best when styled with light, fresh, and breathable clothing that reflects their laid-back charm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What types of outfits pair best with espadrilles for women?
Espadrilles complement casual and semi-casual outfits such as sundresses, skirts, shorts, and cropped pants. They work well with light, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton for a relaxed, summery look.

Can espadrilles be worn with jeans?
Yes, espadrilles pair nicely with jeans, especially skinny or cropped styles. Rolled-up hems highlight the shoes and create a chic, effortless vibe suitable for casual outings.

Are espadrilles suitable for formal occasions?
Espadrilles are generally considered casual footwear. However, wedge espadrilles with elegant designs can be appropriate for semi-formal events, particularly outdoor or daytime gatherings.

What colors of clothing complement neutral-colored espadrilles?
Neutral espadrilles, such as beige, tan, or white, pair well with a wide range of colors including pastels, earth tones, and vibrant hues. This versatility allows for easy coordination with various wardrobe staples.

How can I style espadrilles for a beach or vacation look?
For a beach-ready outfit, pair espadrilles with flowy maxi dresses, shorts, or lightweight jumpsuits. Add accessories like straw hats and woven bags to enhance the relaxed, vacation-inspired aesthetic.

Are there specific accessories that enhance an espadrille outfit?
Accessories such as straw bags, wide-brim hats, and delicate jewelry complement espadrille outfits by reinforcing the casual, summery style while adding polished finishing touches.
Espadrilles are a versatile and stylish footwear choice for women, perfectly suited for warm-weather outfits. Their casual yet chic design allows them to be paired effortlessly with a variety of clothing items, including sundresses, skirts, shorts, and cropped pants. Whether opting for flat espadrilles or those with wedges, they add a touch of relaxed elegance to both daytime and evening looks.

When selecting what to wear with espadrilles, it is essential to consider the occasion and the overall style you wish to achieve. Light, breathable fabrics such as linen, cotton, and chambray complement espadrilles well, enhancing their summery appeal. Additionally, neutral or pastel tones often work best, but bold prints and colors can also be balanced with the simplicity of espadrilles to create a striking ensemble.

In summary, espadrilles offer a comfortable yet fashionable option for women looking to elevate their warm-weather wardrobe. By pairing them thoughtfully with appropriate clothing and accessories, one can achieve a polished, effortless look suitable for various settings. Embracing espadrilles as a staple piece allows for both versatility and timeless style throughout the season.

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.