Versatile espadrilles are the perfect spring footwear

The casual, often colorful espadrille is the perfect shoe for spring. Iconic and timeless, it adds just the right touch of bohemian flair to the season's lighter, brighter outfits.

Originally from the Pyrenees but made in Catalonia since the 14th century, espadrilles are incredibly versatile. They can have a wedge heel or a flat sole and a canvas or leather upper. They can lace up the leg or tie at the ankle, but they almost always have a braided and wrapped jute sole.

Local shoe stores are showing many versions of espadrilles this spring, from classic canvas to the re-envisioned metallic peep-toe. Here are a few standouts around town.

Clementine in West Seattle offers a swank and sophisticated take on the wedge heel with Corso Como's Roz and Roma styles (both $138). The Roz is a white leather slingback with an intricate cutout design on the toe, while the Roma features brown linen with a criss-cross toe and ankle strap.

Across town, Shoefly in Belltown is showing a vamped-up version from Pare Gabia, one of the oldest espadrille makers in France. Each shoe is hand-sewn to join the upper to the jute sole. Featuring show-stopping red metallic leather and lacing up the leg, the Amelia wedge ($143) is not for the faint of heart. The Adia ($147), with silver metallic leather, a criss-cross toe and a strap at the ankle, is the perfect way to add a touch of sparkle to your wardrobe.

Market Street Shoes in Ballard offers up the Raquel ($105) from J Shoes. With an exaggeration of the classic wedge shape, the Raquel combines canvas with a leather toe to create a modern, casual look. Available in navy and tan striped denim with a yellow leather toe, or in blue, red, yellow and white striped canvas with a white leather toe, the Raquel is an adorable espadrille for spring.

If a tall wedge heel isn't your deal, head on over to Frankie in Fremont, where you'll find a variety of options from Casteñer, Spain's classic espadrille maker. Prices range from $120, for a sweet pale pink canvas peep-toe with an ankle strap and a demure button closure, to $160 for a white leather open-toe sandal.

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