Are Espadrilles Out of Style? | The 2026 Verdict

Trying to figure out whether your favorite warm-weather shoes still have a place in your wardrobe? The answer is good news. Espadrilles have moved back into the fashion spotlight, not out of it. The modern 2026 versions look different from the folksy styles of past decades, which explains why you might have wondered if they were dated.

The short version: if you own a pair of clean, structured espadrilles—especially a wedge or platform style—you are right on trend. If your only frame of reference is a heavily embroidered, souvenir-shop version from ten years ago, it’s time to look at what has changed.

Why Espadrilles Are Trending Again in 2026

Fashion editors are describing espadrilles as a resurgence this year. Sources track them as a notable warm-weather footwear trend across the U.S. and Europe, with several seasonal reports calling them one of the stronger stories for summer 2026. This is not a niche revival — it’s showing up across mainstream coverage.

The renewed appeal comes from a shift in design. The 2026 versions lean into structure and polish rather than the rustic, bohemian look that defined earlier generations. Designers have updated the classic silhouette with sharper shapes and modern details, making the shoes feel intentional instead of costume-like.

If you’re looking for the current shapes worth buying, the roundup on our sister page covers the best espadrilles for women this season, with options that fit the 2026 direction.

Which Espadrille Styles Look Current for Spring and Summer

Not every espadrille reads as fashionable right now. The styles getting attention in 2026 are specific: wedges, platforms, slingbacks, and Mary Jane–inspired versions. Those four silhouettes are the ones fashion editors are highlighting for the season.

Here’s what separates a current look from a dated one:

• Wedge espadrilles — The classic wedge heel feels fresh again, especially with a cleaner upper and neutral tones.
• Platform espadrilles — A thicker, more substantial sole gives the traditional shoe a contemporary edge.
• Slingback espadrilles — The open-back strap adds a refined, dressier feel that works beyond casual settings.
• Mary Jane styles — A strap across the instep borrows from the preppy trend and modernizes the espadrille.

The styles that feel outdated are the heavily embroidered, overly rustic, or souvenir-like designs. If your pair looks like it belongs in a coastal gift shop, that’s the version reading as old — not the shoe category itself.

How to Wear Espadrilles in 2026 Without Looking Outdated

Styling matters as much as the shoe itself. The current approach treats espadrilles as a polished warm-weather staple, not a beach-only accessory. Pairing them with tailored linen pants, midi dresses, or cropped denim keeps the look modern. The goal is to let the shoe feel like a considered choice.

One practical note: the jute and rope-sole construction means espadrilles belong to dry, warm days. They are not built for rain, wet grass, or rough terrain. Save them for sunny errands, outdoor dinners, and vacation days, and they’ll hold up well through the season.

Do Espadrilles Actually Suit Your Lifestyle?

No matter what the trends say, espadrilles work best if they fit how you live. The flat versions are a warm-weather walking shoe, comfortable for city strolling but not built for long hikes or wet conditions. Wedges and platforms add height, but the jute sole still means keeping them away from puddles. Check the fit before committing — the canvas upper stretches as you break them in, so a snug start is better than a loose one.

For most people in 2026, that leads to one straightforward conclusion: espadrilles belong in the summer rotation, not the back of the closet. The updated silhouettes fit current style without asking you to abandon the easy, breathable comfort these shoes have always delivered.