As we Canadians delve further into the summer months, the novelty of open-toed high heels and flip flops wear off as we begin to develop sores on our tender tootsies.  If you want a shoe that isn’t sky high and that you can wear all day and around the house, Alpargatas are for you!

Originating from Spanish shoemakers in Cataluña, this lowered version of the espadrille has been worn by young and old.  The unisex shoe was a favorite of Surrealist Spanish artist Salvador Dali, and has most recently been sported by style maven Sienna Miller.

This comfortable, chic footwear is made from a thin cloth covering and a raffia sole. Reminiscent of a devolved Vans shoe, these lightweight wonders do not make you sweat! Affordable and soft, they are best for shopping trips, travelling and running errands during the summer months.

As a regular air traveller, I am usually annoyed by my swelling feet on airplanes. Since I picked up my own pair of pomegranate-red Alpargatas, my eight-hour flight went by more quickly than it ever has (the new in-flight entertainment features might have also helped).  Perfect for travellers on flights and treks, the fabric allows your feet to breathe and move comfortably.

If you’re unable to boot it over to Europe to pick up your own pair, it’s easy to find a quality pair from TOM’s at www.tomsshoes.com or Urban Outfitters. For $38, not only will you receive one pair of shoes, but the charity-based company will send a free pair of shoes to an Argentinean child in need. Paying it forward has never been so fashionable!