Respoke Espadrilles
Few items in my closet garner as many compliments as my Respoke espadrilles, which are one of my favorite summer pairs of shoes. After moving to Spain, founder Michael Tonello made a career of sourcing Hermès Birkin bags for wealthy clients (and in 2009 wrote a book about it, Bringing Home the Birkin: My Life in Hot Pursuit of the World’s Most Coveted Handbag). He also started Respoke, which combines his love of designer fashion with classic Spanish footwear. Tonello sources silk scarves from designers like Hermes, Pucci and Chanel, then uses the fabric to make espadrilles at Respoke’s workshop in La Rioja, Spain. Though most of the pairs come in the classic slip-on style, Respoke also has a heeled wedge or mule version. The shoes are well-made, comfortable and guaranteed to start conversations. Respoke Ana Espadrille with Hermès scarf, $495, respoke.com
