CLAVIS: asos

[E]SPADRILLES

"When a trainer is too sporty or too clompy and a sandal too uncomfortable in the heat, the summer shoe to turn to is the espadrille." - Jessica Bumpus, Vogue Magazine

Don't get me wrong, I love a gladiator sandal. I think wedges look great under a flirty sun dress and have developed a real obsession with mid-heeled mules. Flip flops, pool sliders - you name it - I'm on board.

But for the best in summer comfort and style, you cannot beat the classic espadrille.

Still characterised by their traditional rope sole, espadrilles have come a long way since their modest beginnings in the Pyrenees and Mediterranean. Originally worn by men and women, their popularity soared in the late 1940s when seen on Hollywood actresses Lauren Bacall, Sophia Loren and Grace Kelly. By the 1970s they had become a staple trend, with Parisian designer Yves Saint Laurent commissioning the Spanish firm Castañer to create a wedge-heeled version; an act which would secure their place in high fashion.

Today you can find espadrilles in a wide variety of colours, styles and prints. New York brand Soludos is a great example of this, offering designs that feature everything from mimosas and flamingos to donuts and avocados.

The question is: which pair to choose?

[D]ENIM

“It’s refreshing to see denim on the catwalk because it works as a counterpoint to anything too ‘fashion’: denim is the sensible friend who wants you to look good, not stupid.” - Elgar Johnson

OK, so the quote above may not have applied to Britney and Justin when they decided to wear matching double-denim outfits to the American Music Awards in 2001. Really though, where would we be without blue boot-cut jeans and the classic denim jacket?

The fabric is an iconic and staple part of every woman's wardrobe. But put down those skinnies and say good bye to the comfort stretch of faux-jeans and jeggings. This season’s denim is rigid, androgynous and torn at the seams.

Here are five of the best cuts and washes to look out for this Spring:

1 - GIRLFRIEND

Remember ‘Boyfriend’ jeans? The slouchy, over-sized style was a favourite amongst women who preferred a loose and low waisted fit. Girlfriend jeans are a feminine version of the ‘boyfriend’ trend and are slightly tapered on the leg for a slimmer, more flattering finish.

Up your dating game with these ‘AUTHENTIC 1969 best girlfriend jeans’ from Gap, £44.95.

2 - DISTRESSED

Open stitches, scuffed knees, raw hems and frayed edges; when it comes to distressed denim, anything goes. Tear it up in a pair of bleached Original MOM jeans from ASOS, £35.00.

(Just be prepared for parents/grandparents to question whether you can “afford a pair without holes in?”)

3 - PINSTRIPED

Smart meets casual with Topshop's twist on the classic suit pattern. Say it in stripes with these printed denim co-ords, £45.00.

4 - CROPPED

Because culottes are hot. We've been through this.

These frayed denim culottes tick all the boxes and are available in Zara for just £19.99.

5 - PATCHWORK

Can’t choose between faded, indigo and bleached denim?

Mix it up in a pair of patchwork jeans, £42.00.

Or if you're feeling crafty, why not DIY with some old denim shorts and locker stickers? (Skinny Dip, £10.00)

photo credits: weareselecters.com, shemazing.net, theconsciousstudent.wordpress.com, gap.com, asos.com, topshop.com, zara.com