Esparto ribbons

There's a very summery gesture we'd almost forgotten.

Sitting down, crossing your legs... and tying the laces around your ankle. Espadrilles with ties have something of that. A small ritual. Of time without haste.

They are footwear that you don't just wear, you live a little in them.

Esparto espadrilles are a traditional type of espadrille characterized by:

• Braided jute or esparto sole
• Long ribbons that tie at the ankle
• Open or semi-open structure
• Lightweight, summery design

They are also known as vigatanas, a name that refers to their origin in the Vic area (Catalonia).

In short: Esparto espadrilles are traditional espadrilles with ankle ties, designed for summer and everyday wear.

The artisans who make them today follow a tradition documented since 1691. More than three centuries doing the same thing without major changes, without the need to reinvent them.

This type of footwear has been present in:

• the countryside
• towns
• Mediterranean cities

And for a long time, it was simply that: the shoe that was available. Until it began to be valued for what it was.

Espadrilles are not only part of tradition, but they have also found their place in culture. They are associated with artists like Dalí, who incorporated them into his attire, taking them out of their original context.

That's where something interesting happens: what was once ordinary begins to be seen as something special.

The ribbon espadrilles we work with are handmade by artisans from Castellón.

Each pair follows the traditional process:

• braiding of the jute sole
• manual assembly
• ribbon placement

There is no mass production; there is craftsmanship.

Because they make sense.

• they are lightweight
• breathable
• they adapt to the foot thanks to the straps
• they support without being rigid

And they also have something hard to find: effortless personality.

No need to overcomplicate things.

They work especially well with:

• dresses
• linen clothes
• simple summer outfits

And they pair beautifully with natural materials, such as our baskets and hampers, which complete that style without forcing it.

If you are interested in this type of footwear, you can also check out:

• Unisex espadrilles → more closed, classic style
• Ibicencan sandals → more open and lighter
• Menorcan sandals → leather, more structured

Each has its moment.

• Made in Spain
• Authentic artisanal tradition (for centuries)
• Natural materials
• Limited production
• Design that is not trend-dependent

They are not a modern reinterpretation; they are the same as always, well-made.

If you're in Madrid, you can find them at:

📍 Chueca — Calle Pérez Galdós, 3
📍 Barrio de las Letras — Calle Cervantes, 9

And try them on at your leisure, as it should be.

What are ribbon espadrilles?

They are traditional espadrilles with an esparto or jute sole and long ribbons that tie around the ankle.

What does “vigatana” mean?

It is the traditional name for this type of espadrille, associated with the Vic area in Catalonia.

Are they comfortable for walking?

Yes. They are lightweight, and the ribbons allow for a snug fit, which improves support.

How do you tie them correctly?

They are wrapped around the ankle and tied according to the height and fit you prefer.

Can they get wet?

It is not recommended, as esparto and jute are natural fibers sensitive to moisture.

What is the difference compared to other espadrilles?

The main difference is the ankle tie, which provides more support and a more traditional style.

Footwear that hasn't changed because it doesn't need to

Some things were already well-made from the start. These are one of them.