Where Does The Name Come From?
Espadrilles originated from Spain; the Basque region to be precise. They derived their name from the hard and coarse grass that grew on the plains and called esparto. This type of footwear was mainly worn in the summer by farmers tending the fields. The uppers were generally made out of canvas.
They were hard wearing with a cork sole and bound to the feet with straps of linen or other such material and fastened around the ankles with a bow. This style was made famous by a well-known Spanish actress.
This footwear was popular because it was easy and cheap to make as all the natural products out of which to fashion them was found around the countryside. Even now these materials are being used and in buying a pair of these shoes you are being eco-friendly!
Nowadays much of this footwear is still produced in the country of their origin. Many villages are still busy hand crafting them both for men and women.
This footwear is ultra-fashionable by the modern public and worn by many people during the long summer months. From their humble beginnings designers have fashioned many beautiful and elegant samples based on the Basque originals.
For holiday makers they are also a must as they can be stowed in the tiniest places in a suitcase and they are light too. Because they are cheap to buy even now, you will be able to afford several pairs both for on the beach and the dressier varieties for light evening wear.
Whereas in the past the fore foot was enclosed in canvas, these days you will find varieties with a peep toe and wide ribbons to tie around the ankles and even ones with wedge heels.
Whatever style you require you should have a look at the internet where you will find many examples of these shoes. If you happen to chance on our website we have many varieties on offer and for January you will be able to buy ladies shoes and get a second pair of shoes for men at half price. So you will be able to buy a pair of these fabulous shoes for your partner too.
For an extensive selection of espadrilles you should click on http://www.mr-shoes.co.uk.
