Sole Sensation

Heritage espadrille-maker Castañer marks its 90th anniversary this year with a limited-edition collection featuring luxe interpretations of this beloved footwear

It is no surprise that this beloved family-owned company is so intimately familiar with the luxury industry. Since Lorenzo Castañer created the world’s first wedge espadrille at the request of a young Yves Saint Laurent in the early 1970s, the label has become synonymous with timeless elegance. The brand has gone on to collaborate with some of the world’s leading labels and its designs have been spotted on luminaries including Jacqueline Kennedy and Grace Kelly, as well as stylish actresses such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Penélope Cruz. The secret to the uncomparable quality of a Castañer shoe stems from the brand’s focus on heritage and quality—the espadrilles continue to be proudly produced in its workshops in Banyoles and Calatayud. In an interview with the Rafael Castañer, who is in charge of the brand’s creative direction and men’s collections, says, “For us, it’s all about know-how combined with our history and heritage. The shoes are pretty much made the same way since 1927 using machines invented by my father and grandfather. Eighty per cent of each shoe is still made by hand.” This year, on Castañer’s 90th birthday, legacy and contemporary sensibilities harmonise to culminate in a wide-ranging collection that combines both style and comfort. The elegant wedges, elevated with metallic floral embellishments and pony hair, prove that espadrilles are not just for a trip to Bali, while cheerfully hand-embroidered flatforms are versatile enough to go with fitted pants or midi-skirts. CASTAÑER • 03-14 Ngee Ann City, tel: 6694 4535 • The Shoe Salon, Level 2 Takashimaya D S