If your current summer shoe collection consists exclusively of sneakers and flip-flops, consider this a PSA. Espadrille sandals have been plucked out of the 2016 fashion time capsule and are the ‘It’ footwear of summer 2026. In other words, if you parted ways with your original pair or missed the boat on this 2010s shoe trend the first time around, there’s no time like the present to add to your rotation.
At its most basic, an espadrille is a shoe style featuring a braided sole. There are a plethora of options on the market, from wedged sandals to strappy heels to sneaker hybrids. Ahead, we’ve rounded up 12 pairs of espadrilles that can seamlessly fit into every summer wardrobe.
12 Pairs of Espadrille Sandals for Summer 2026 That Feel Effortlessly Cool
1. Our Favorite: Our social calendars are stacked for the summer, which means we require footwear that can keep up and adapt to a variety of plans. These platform espadrilles hit the mark with their wedge heels (stylish yet practical), open-toe design, a braided top and an ankle strap for maximum security.
2. For Everyday: Espadrilles may seem intimidating, but there are different styles, many of which will work for everyday wear. Case in point: this sleek, bone-white pair by Madden Girl with buckle straps and a braided platform that makes casual dressing feel classy.
3. Best Flat: Journee’s Emelie espadrilles are a simple shoe you can strap on and be out the door in seconds. The shoe features a tie ankle strap that can be secured with a sweet bow detail at the back of the leg, plus it comes in an array of gorgeous hues like pink lavender that will give your outfit a pop of color.
17 Upgraded Espadrille Styles That Make the Seasonal Shoe Feel Fresh
4. A Statement Pair: Bows are booming for summer 2026, and we love this pair of espadrilles from Dream Pairs, featuring a buoyant bow ankle closure that might be as tall as the shoe’s wedged heel.
5. Ideal Nude: A quality pair of nude shoes is a necessity in any footwear collection, so if you’re looking for espadrilles that go with everything you own, we love these wedge sandals from Pennysue. They also come in white and black, if you’d prefer a basic that isn’t as natural-looking.
6. Pointed-Toe: We don’t know what we’re more obsessed with: these espadrille wedges’ pointed-toe or their chunky x-strap. We’ll let you decide.
7. 90s-Esque: Just hearing the name “Lucky Brand” has us feeling nostalgic, so it should come as no surprise that the brand’s espadrille heels also feel like a blast from the past. The pair boasts a canvas toe strap lined with frays, plus a chunky ankle strap and a wedged sole.
8. Best Mesh: The Lions Wedge Sandals from Forever & Always Shoes strike the perfect balance of modern and early aughts style with its mesh paneling and ribbon-like ankle tie that channels the throwback bandage trend. Save these for a night out or to elevate a basic look.
9. A Metallic Moment: While the Coco Espadrille from BP. comes in two additional colorways, the gold light metallic option can’t (and won’t) be outdone.
10. Best Mary Jane: Sam Edelman’s Mary Jane espadrilles fit the mermaidcore bill. With mesh netting and a sleek buckle-strap closure, the amber gold shoe is serving Ariel in the best way.
11. Sneaker Style: Toms does not skimp on quality when it comes to their platform sneakers (or any sneakers, really), and we guarantee this elevated espadrille style is no exception. They come in basic white and black and three additional printed designs (the lemon print would be so fun for summer).
12. Dressing Up: Whether it’s date night or girls’ night, the fit has to meet the occasion, and these espadrille sandals from Nine West are the quintessential going-out shoe. The pair comes in two color options — blue denim and gold metallic — and boasts a strappy silhouette with a square open toe that’s as fun as it is sexy.
Jelly Shoes Are Back — Shop The Y2K Shoe Trend
Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!
