5 Authentic Spanish Espadrilles That Are The Real Deal The real ones.

Originating from the Pyrenees region, nestled between France and Spain, the espadrilles boast soles crafted from jute or plant-based rope. Whether gracing the feet of King of Aragon’s soldiers or making fashion statements on Salvador Dali and Yves Saint Laurent, espadrilles have stood the test of time. As you wander through the vibrant streets of Madrid and Barcelona, you’ll find that these stylish staples remain a firm favourite among Spanish women. Join us as we explore the most traditional Spanish brands of espadrilles, bringing a touch of Mediterranean vibe to your wardrobe.

1- Castañer

Established in 1927 in the heart of Catalunya, Castañer is hailed as the Rolls-Royce of espadrilles. In a serendipitous meeting in 1970, the charismatic duo Luís and Isabel Castañer crossed paths with Yves Saint Laurent, leading to the creation of the first iconic wedge espadrille. This Summer 2024, they collaborated with Ancient Greek Sandals creating a collection of beautiful strap flats.

Image @Castañer

2- Casa Hernanz 

Casa Hernanz has made the perfect espadrille since 1845. The shop located in Madrid usually has people waiting in line outside. Queen Sofia, the Spanish president Pedro Sanches and Javier Bardem are some of their famous clients. The handmade flat espadrilles are the house’s biggest hit; they sell around 500 pairs daily. However, these chic wedges are perfect to pair with dirndls and summer cocktail dresses.

Image @CasaHernanz

3- Micuir 

After working in the fashion industry for several years, Elena Peña launched Mucuir in 2017, in Madrid, where she was born and raised. She has been innovating with modern designs, using different materials such as snakeskin and leather recycled from the agri-food industry. On top, all Micuir shoes are handmade locally, in Spain.

Image @Micuir

4- Naguisa 

For those seeking contemporary designs, Naguisa is the brand to explore. Founded by architect Pablo Izquierdo Lopez and product designer Claudia Perez Polo, this Catalan gem is based in Barcelona, offering a modern twist on traditional Mediterranean footwear. Best of all, you can effortlessly shop their stylish collections online.

Image @Naguisa

5- La Alpargateria

La Alpargatería is a shop founded in 1986 in Madrid, showcasing a wide selection of Spanish espadrille manufacturers. Most of these are small family businesses dedicated to crafting shoes by hand in the traditional way. La Alpargatería offers classic models in various colours at attractive prices.

Image @LaAlpargateria

In Short

Espadrilles are the real deal when it comes to timeless fashion. The enduring appeal of espadrilles lies in their exceptional comfort, breathability, and health benefits. Crafted entirely from natural materials such as hemp, esparto grass, and cotton, these shoes promote excellent foot health while providing a fresh and stylish option for any season.

In terms of style, whether with high heels, low heels or flats, the espadrilles are a must for the Duchess of Cambridge and her sister Pippa Middleton. Alexa Chung, Meghan Markle and Margot Robbie are big fans of espadrilles. Before them, Claudia Schiffer, Brigitte Bardot, Princess Grace of Monaco and Audrey Hepburn, to name a few.

Spanish natural fibre shoes are the most versatile and democratic shoes ever. From kings and queens, Hollywood stars and celebrities, as well as farmers, all wear them.

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