Espadrilles can give a dress a relaxed finish without making the outfit feel unfinished. A woven sole adds texture, ankle ribbons introduce a decorative detail, and the choice between flats and wedges changes the proportions. The most useful styling decision is often the simplest: how does the dress hem sit with the shoes you want to wear?
This guide explains how to wear espadrilles with mini, midi and maxi dresses, with practical outfit ideas inspired by La Magerit's handcrafted Spanish designs.
Choose the dress and shoes together
A dress that looks right with a high wedge may sit differently with a flat espadrille. Try the complete outfit before deciding that the length works, especially if the dress is close to the floor.
Consider the skirt's shape as well as its length. A flowing hem moves around the shoe, while a narrower skirt may sit closer to the ankle ties. Walk a little in the outfit to check that neither the fabric nor the fastening gets in the way.
Mini dresses: keep the shoe choice intentional
A shorter dress leaves more of the shoe and leg visible, so espadrilles can become a clear part of the look. Flats create a lower-profile finish, while wedges add height and a more pronounced silhouette.
For a relaxed daytime outfit, try a simple mini dress with natural-toned flats. La Magerit's LENNY – Natural has a linen upper, a jute-and-EVA sole and a listed total height of 2 cm. Its semi-open toe design keeps the toes out of view, and its braided linen and satin ribbons can be worn together or separately.
If you prefer a wedge, keep the rest of the outfit as simple as you like. A plain dress gives the woven sole and ankle ties room to stand out. There is no need to add several decorative accessories just because the dress is short.
Midi dresses: make room for ankle ribbons
A midi dress is a useful starting point for ankle-tie espadrilles because the hem can leave the fastening visible. The exact effect depends on your proportions and where the dress ends, so check the outfit rather than relying on the label “midi.”
Try a plain dress with a textured or metallic shoe, or pair a printed dress with a quieter footwear colour. La Magerit's CATALINA – Kaki offers a leather upper and natural jute wedge, while AITANA – Dorado introduces a gold finish.
CATALINA and AITANA each have a listed total height of 10 cm and a 2.5 cm platform. If you enjoy that height, a midi dress can show the shoe clearly. If you prefer a lower profile, a flat style can work just as well with a hem that leaves enough space around the ankle.
Maxi dresses: check clearance before heading out
With a maxi dress, hem clearance is the priority. The fabric should not drag on the ground or slip beneath the sole as you walk. Check this with the actual shoes you plan to wear, not another pair with a different height.
A wedge can change how a long dress falls, but do not choose a heel solely to rescue an unsuitable hem. Select a height you are happy wearing, then make sure the dress works with it.
Flats can look relaxed with a maxi dress when the length allows. If you switch from wedges to flats during the day, reassess the hem: a dress that cleared the floor earlier may now sit too low.
Pair linen dresses with contrasting textures
A linen dress and espadrilles can create a cohesive outfit without every component matching. Natural linen footwear echoes the fabric, while a leather upper introduces a different texture against the dress.
Try cream or warm beige with khaki for an understated palette. If you choose natural linen shoes, use a bag or ribbon detail to add contrast rather than attempting an exact fabric match.
Read the shoe's full composition if materials are important to you. A linen upper does not mean every component is linen or that the shoe is leather-free.
Style printed dresses without competing details
When a dress has a strong print, pick one colour from the pattern or choose a neutral shoe that supports it. Keep the bag and jewellery quieter if you want the print to remain the focal point.
Gold espadrilles can also work with a printed dress, especially when you enjoy a warmer accent. Compare the actual colours together in daylight. You do not need the shoes to match every shade in the pattern.
If both the print and footwear feel bold, remove an accessory before adding another. A clear focal point often makes the outfit easier to wear.
Use gold wedges to lift a plain dress
A simple dress can provide a calm background for metallic footwear. Try gold wedges with navy, muted green or warm pink, then choose a small bag and understated jewellery.
AITANA – Dorado is described with a leather upper and lining, a padded leather footbed, cotton ankle ties and a jute-and-natural-rubber sole. Its combination of a metallic upper and woven sole offers both shine and texture.
For an event, check the dress code and venue as well as the colour pairing. An espadrille may suit a relaxed gathering but is not automatically appropriate for every formal setting.
Keep the fastening comfortable and secure
Ankle ribbons are part of the styling, but they also need to hold the shoe correctly. Arrange them neatly without pulling them too tightly, and check that the heel stays secure when you move.
Choose the specific shoe for your foot and your plans. Flats do not guarantee all-day comfort, and wedges do not guarantee stability on uneven surfaces. Try a new pair indoors before wearing it for an extended outing.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear flat espadrilles with a midi dress?
Yes. Check where the hem falls and whether it leaves room for the fastening. A low-profile shoe can work with both simple and printed midi dresses.
Are wedges better for maxi dresses?
Not always. The right choice depends on the dress length and your preferred height. Check the hem with the actual shoes on and make sure it clears the ground.
Should my espadrilles match my dress?
They do not need to match exactly. A complementary palette, a neutral shoe or a deliberate contrast can all work.
Can I change from wedges to flats in the same dress?
Yes, if the hem works with both heights. Recheck a long dress after changing shoes so it does not drag or catch.
Find your own dress-and-espadrille pairing
Start with the length and shape of the dress, choose a shoe height you enjoy, and let colour and texture bring the outfit together. Explore La Magerit's collection for handcrafted Spanish espadrilles to style with your favourite mini, midi and maxi dresses.