NEWFANGLIA LIFESTYLE

The Espadrilles History

Espadrilles (or Alpargatas depending on the region) have been around since at least the 14th century and were created in the Northern Spain, more specifically in the Pyrenees region . The Basque Country and the Catalonia were the main creators, and actually there are still some Basque shops that produce them for over a century.

The term espadrille comes from catalan word “espardenya”, a type of shoe made with “esparto”, a mediterranean grass used in making rope.

The traditional espadrilles have a canvas upper with the toe and vamp cut in one piece and seamed to the rope sole at the sides. The majority of them would have laces at the throat that would be wrapped around the ankle to hold the shoes securely in place.

Since the 13th century they have been worn, firstly by the catalano-aragonese soldiers and then by the mine workers. Traditionally the espadrilles were black or were left in its natural colour fabric, being the dark version worn during the week and the lighter one on Sundays.

Nowadays they are still very popular because they are a light sandal, ideal for warm temperatures, with a 100% natural sole that molds to the shape of the foot and allows the skin to breathe.

Easy going, dynamic lifestyle, versatile to match different styles are features which are always associated to them.

As we are big fans of these type of shoes, we couldn’t start our first Spring/Summer collection without something fresh and cool for your feet. Veras is the name! A modern and elegant version of the Espadrilles (the Espadrille 2.0 as some like to name it), with leather lace fastening are perfect for your summer days.

Check our styles HERE!