How to Choose the Right Type of Espadrilles for a Smart Casual Office Setting?

Espadrilles, once relegated to beach vacations and summer barbecues, are now the stars of the show in the smart casual office environment. This versatile footwear, with its signature braided jute sole, has been given a fashionable makeover in recent years and is steadily becoming a must-have in every woman’s shoe armory. The lightweight, breathable nature of espadrilles makes them the perfect shoe choice for warm weather, but their increasing style quotient ensures they are no longer just for the beach or casual outings. Instead, they have found their place in the formal settings, too.

With a multitude of styles, materials, and designs available, choosing the right pair of espadrilles to wear to work can seem daunting. Let’s simplify that and help you make the best choice.

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Decoding the Espadrilles

Espadrilles have come a long way from their humble origins as peasant shoes in Spain. Today, they are lauded for their comfort and versatility. The key to incorporating espadrilles into your workwear wardrobe is understanding the various styles and how they can work for you.

Traditional espadrilles have a canvas upper and a flat jute sole. However, modern interpretations of this classic shoe include leather and suede uppers, wedge heels, and even embellishments. Espadrilles with a leather upper offer a polished look that pairs well with business attire. On the other hand, canvas or fabric espadrilles lend a more relaxed, summery vibe.

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Choosing the Right Style

The style of the espadrilles you choose is crucial to maintaining a smart casual look at work. Flat espadrilles can be a great replacement for your regular ballet flats or loafers. They pair beautifully with both dresses and pants, giving a chic, laid-back touch to your outfit.

For a more formal look, opt for espadrille wedges or platforms. The added height gives them a dressier feel, making them a suitable choice for meetings or presentations where you need to look your best. Keep in mind, though, that platform espadrilles can be quite chunky, so they work best with wide-leg pants or midi skirts that balance out the heaviness.

The Best Colors and Patterns for the Office

Color and pattern choice is another area where you can show off your personal style while still adhering to the office dress code. Neutral colors like black, brown, beige, and white are always safe bets. They pair well with most outfits and give a more professional look.

However, espadrilles come in a wide variety of colors and prints, so don’t be afraid to experiment. A pair of navy or burgundy espadrilles can add a pop of color to a monochrome outfit. Similarly, a striped or polka dot pair can add a playful touch without being too casual. Avoid flashy or multicolored espadrilles, as they can look too informal for a business setting.

Pairing Espadrilles with Your Work Attire

Now that you’ve chosen your ideal pair of espadrilles, it’s time to incorporate them into your work outfits. Espadrilles are incredibly versatile, and they pair effortlessly with a wide range of ensembles.

With trousers or jeans, opt for flat or wedge espadrilles. They add a relaxed yet polished touch to your look. For a more feminine look, pair your espadrilles with a midi skirt or dress. Remember to keep the length of your skirt or dress in mind – it should not be too short or too long as it can make the overall look appear unbalanced.

Espadrilles also work wonderfully with a tailored jumpsuit. This ensemble is perfect for those days when you want to look put-together without much effort. Add a belt to cinch your waist and create a flattering silhouette, and you’re good to go.

Caring for Your Espadrilles

Just like any other piece of footwear, espadrilles require some care to keep them in their best condition. Whether your espadrilles are made of canvas or leather, they should be kept away from water as it can damage the jute sole.

Use a soft cloth to remove any dirt or dust from your espadrilles. For stubborn stains on canvas espadrilles, a mild soap solution can be used. Leather espadrilles, on the other hand, may require a specialized leather cleaner. Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Allow your espadrilles to air dry naturally, away from direct sunlight or heat. Stuffing them with paper can help maintain their shape while they dry. With the right care, your espadrilles will stay looking fresh and fashionable, ready to elevate your office outfits for many seasons to come.

Espadrilles Brands to Consider for the Office

When it comes to choosing where to buy your office espadrilles, several brands stand out for their quality and style. Brands like Net Porter and Saint Laurent are known for their chic, fashion-forward designs. These brands offer a variety of espadrilles, from classic canvas to polished leather, ensuring you’ll find the perfect pair to match your business casual dress code.

Net Porter’s espadrilles are especially popular for their comfort and durability. They offer a range of styles, from flat espadrille sandals to platform espadrille wedges, all designed with the brand’s signature rope sole. The wide variety of options means you’re likely to find a pair that fits your casual wardrobe and office requirements.

On the other hand, Saint Laurent’s espadrilles are renowned for their craftsmanship and luxury materials. This brand may be a good choice if you prefer leather sandals over canvas ones. Their espadrilles are also known for being lightweight, which makes them ideal for warm weather wear.

Regardless of the brand you choose, remember to consider the overall style, comfort, and durability of the espadrilles. Your rights reserved to choose the brand and style that fit your personal taste and office dress code.

In Conclusion: Espadrilles – The Perfect Balance Between Comfort and Style

In conclusion, espadrilles are indeed a versatile addition to a smart casual office setting. They brilliantly strike a balance between comfort and style, making them an excellent choice for the warm weather. With the right pair, you can effortlessly transition from a busy workday to a casual evening outing.

Remember to choose a pair of espadrilles that aligns with your office dress code. You can never go wrong with neutral tones or simple patterns. Also, consider the material and style of the espadrilles. Leather espadrilles and espadrille wedges offer a more formal look, while canvas espadrilles are perfect for a casual vibe.

Finally, don’t forget to care for your espadrilles properly. Keeping them clean and dry will ensure they last for many seasons, providing you with endless opportunities to wear espadrilles stylishly and comfortably.

So, whether you choose a pair from Net Porter, Saint Laurent, or any other brand, espadrilles can be a chic, comfortable, and practical addition to your office footwear collection. So why wait? Start exploring the world of espadrilles today and add a dash of style to your office ensemble!