This is the only summer high heel you'll ever need, and the Princess of Wales is a fan

Question: what’s the most glamorous shoe to wear to a summer wedding, garden party, polo match, or Wimbledon-level social affair—without sinking heel-first into the turf? The answer is simple: the espadrille. Specifically, a wedge or block-heel version, offering the perfect balance of height, comfort, and the ability to stay on the level, even when the terrain is not.

The woven jute sole of the classic espadrille is more than just a practical choice—it’s a subtle style signifier, and one favoured by Princess of Wales. Kate always chooses closed-toe wedges by Spanish espadrille specialists, Castañer for her more sun-drenched royal appearances.

She is no fool for choosing them either; yes they’re chic, but they also whisper “I’ve got this” as she navigates polo fields, racecourses and palace gardens. This year though, there’s more to the espadrille story than Kate’s royal repeats; the good news is that just about every high street brand is offering considered versions catering to all tastes and styles.

We’ve found rope-soled block-heeled and wedge sandals in sunset orange and sharp black-and-white pairings, and closed-toe styles in pale blue, sunshine yellow, and in a gorgeous white and fuschia pink combination from Penelope Chilvers. My favourites are Next’s black and white woven wedge sandals, which are versatile enough to work for evening too.

So there you have it: whether you’re watching tennis, raising a glass at Ascot, or simply enjoying a garden party, you’ll find a pair of high heeled espadrilles than not only suit you, but serve you.