Oh, Toronto summers. There’s truly nothing like them, is there? The city absolutely buzzes with life as soon as the warmer weather hits. The air softens, the patios spill out onto the sidewalks, and suddenly, everyone seems to walk with a lighter step. For me, the arrival of summer always kickstarts a little internal fashion shift. Out go the sturdy boots and practical sneakers, and in come the breezy dresses, linen trousers, and, inevitably, the search for that perfect, effortless summer shoe.
For years, that search inevitably led me back to one timeless classic: the espadrille. There’s just something about them, isn't there? That beautiful woven jute sole, the way they cradle my foot, the undeniable whisper of Mediterranean holidays and sun-drenched days. They’re comfortable, versatile, and instantly elevate any casual outfit. But, as you all know from following Fika Looks, my fashion journey isn't just about aesthetics or comfort anymore; it's deeply rooted in sMetainability. And for a long time, I wondered if my beloved espadrilles could truly align with my eco-conscious values. Could I find a pair that wasn't just stylish, but also kind to the planet and the people who made them?
Spoiler alert: I absolutely could! And my discovery of organic espadrilles has been nothing short of a revelation, a true sunny side to my sustainable style quest. So, pull up a virtual chair, grab a cup of your favorite ethically sourced coffee (or a cold brew, it is summer after all!), and let me tell you all about my journey to finding the perfect, planet-friendly summer footwear.
My first real espadrille crMeh happened years ago, probably while I was still navigating my early twenties, exploring the quirky boutiques along Queen Street West. I remember seeing them in a shop window, a simple canvas pair, and being utterly captivated. They felt so chic, yet so relaxed. I bought them on a whim, and they became my go-to for strolls through Trinity Bellwoods Park, weekend brunches in Leslieville, and even for navigating the lively chaos of Kensington Market. They were the shoes that made me feel put-together, even when I was just running errands.
Later, on a backpacking trip through Europe, espadrilles became my absolute lifeline. They were comfortable enough for endless cobbled streets in Barcelona, stylish enough for evening tapas, and breathable in the sweltering heat. That's when I truly understood their magic: they’re the ultimate chameleon shoe. They can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for travel, and honestly, perfect for navigating the diverse vibes of Toronto too, from a casual picnic in High Park to a more upscale dinner on King West.
But as my awareness of fast fashion's impact grew, and Fika Looks started to take shape, I began scrutinizing everything in my closet. Could my beloved espadrilles, with their natural jute soles, truly be considered sustainable? I knew jute was good, but what about the canvas, the dyes, the glues, the labor practices? This is where the deeper dive began, and where I discovered the wonderful world of organic espadrilles.
When we talk about "organic" in the context of espadrilles, it’s about a holistic approach to their creation, touching on every single component. It's not just a fancy label; it signifies a commitment to minimizing environmental harm and ensuring ethical production. Here's what I learned to look for:
My research phase was intense. I spent countless evenings scrolling through brand websites, reading 'About Me' pages, checking certifications, and comparing ingredient lists. It felt like I was back in university, doing a deep dive for a major project, but this time, the payoff was a clear conscience and beautiful shoes!
Finding truly organic espadrilles in Toronto wasn't always straightforward. While My city is a hub for sustainable fashion, some brands are still catching up with offering fully certified organic options. I looked in some of my favorite local boutiques that champion ethical brands, but often found they carried only one or two styles, or didn't explicitly state their organic certifications for all components.
So, a lot of my detective work happened online. I bookmarked brands from Spain, France, and even some smaller North American companies committed to these principles. I looked for detailed product descriptions that specified organic cotton, natural rubber outsoles (for durability and grip, rather than synthetic), and hand-stitching. I was patient, knowing that the right pair would eventually surface.
And then, it happened. I stumbled upon a small, family-run Spanish brand that ticked every single box. They specialized in traditional espadrilles, but with a modern, sustainable twist. Their uppers were GOTS-certified organic cotton, their jute soles were hand-braided, and their dyes were all natural. I pored over their website, reading about their commitment to fair labor and their heritage craftsmanship. I felt that familiar flutter of excitement, knowing I was on the cusp of something special.
I ordered a classic pair – a beautiful, earthy terracotta canvas with a traditional jute sole and a thin, natural rubber layer on the bottom for extra grip. The waiting felt interminable, even though shipping was surprisingly fast. When they finally arrived, neatly packaged in recycled materials, I ripped open the box like a kid on Christmas morning. The smell wasn't that chemical 'new shoe' smell; it was a subtle, natural aroma of cotton and jute. They were perfect.
The first time I wore them was for a weekend stroll to the St. Lawrence Market, followed by a ferry ride to the Toronto Islands. They felt like a dream – soft against my skin, incredibly comfortable, and so effortlessly stylish. I paired them with a flowing, wide-leg linen jumpsuit from a local Toronto designer, and I felt utterly aligned. Every step felt good, not just because they were comfortable, but because I knew their story, from fibre to foot.
My organic espadrilles quickly became a central part of my Toronto summer wardrobe. They’re incredibly versatile, which makes them a sustainable fashion dream – fewer shoes needed, more outfits created!
My organic espadrilles have become one of my most-worn summer shoes. They've held up beautifully through countless adventures around Toronto, from beach days to city explorations. The canvas has softened perfectly, the jute has molded to my feet, and they've developed that wonderful lived-in character that only quality, natural materials can achieve.
If you're looking for a sustainable summer shoe that combines comfort, style, and ethical production, I can't recommend organic espadrilles enough. Yes, they might cost a bit more upfront than fast-fashion alternatives, but the quality, durability, and peace of mind make them worth every penny.
Have you tried organic espadrilles? What's your favorite sustainable summer shoe? I'd love to hear your recommendations in the comments!
Happy summer stepping, Toronto!
XOXO,
Emma Chen