espadrille braiding handmade shoes jute sole

Anatomy of the Espadrille

Espadrilles are some of our favorite shoes to create and wear here at Feliz. Let us tell you all about the process of handcrafting these beautiful, lightweight summer shoes.

All About the Espadrilles

black leather wedge espadrilles heels summer shoes women jute sole wedge

An espadrille is a type of shoe made with a jute sole, and at Feliz, featuring leather straps and panels forming the upper part of the shoe. The name comes from the French, deriving from a type of grass often used for the sole historically.

It is now known as a true summer shoe, and one of Feliz specialties. Our espadrilles are comfortable, feminine and timeless, and a pair will last you many years. Ranging from higher wedges to flat loafers, in neutral colors and metallic eyecatchers, Feliz offers a range of gorgeous espadrilles of tried and true quality.

espadrilles slippers black leather jute sole summer shoes womens skirt sandals

Read more about the history and timeless appeal of the espadrille here!

How are Feliz espadrilles made?

Oftentimes, the process of creating a pair of espadrilles starts with the braiding of a piece of jute rope into an oval shape.

jute braiding machine handmade espadrilles

This braiding is then placed onto a specially crafted mold or template. This twisted shape is then place into a second mold, where it is compressed very tightly.

round mold of jute sole espadrilles handmade womens shoes handcrafted jute sole

Then, a rubber sole (tread) is practically molten, baked onto its underside. This is referred to as vulcanization.

shoe mold vulcanized oven sole baked

The parts of the upper shoe will then get stitched, by hand, to the sole.

handstitching upper shoe to jute sole espadrille handcrafted shoes handmade shoemaking

It is then fitted around an aluminium mold, from which it gets its final shape. After the finishing touches are added, the shoe is ready to be worn.

handstitching heel strap espadrilles

When and where to wear

Espadrilles are known for being excellent summer shoes, thanks to their lightweight, comfortable materials and beachy look. But as a seasonal shoe, they are surprisingly versatile, and any pair of Feliz designed espadrilles will be fitting footwear for many different types of occasions.

metallic leather espadrilles silver summer shoes womens shoes on white stairs

Ranging from a casual but stylish beach walk to a chic summer dinner or boho party, a good pair of espadrilles will always serve you and your outfit well. Read more about how to style your espadrilles for special occasions here.

Conclusion

We at Feliz feel a special affinity for the timeless summer staple shoes, the espadrilles. Take a look around our unique, ethically handmade collection, with a range of color, fit and design, and choose the perfect pair for you.

Espadrilles pictured in this blog:

 

Terug naar blog