Castañer Carina Espadrilles: Meghan Markle, Kate Middleton, and Molly Sims Prove They’re a Summer Classic

Celebrities like Meghan Markle, Nicky Hilton, Molly Sims, and Catherine, Princess of Wales, have discovered there’s no limit to the number of times they’ll wear Castañer’s ‘Carina’ espadrilles through summer and on vacation.

Few shoes embody timeless summer elegance quite like the Carina. It’s no surprise that Kate Middleton has made the Castañer wedge a repeat favorite, seamlessly pairing it with her polished, feminine wardrobe.

Kate Middleton Repeats Pink Dress by ME+EM at the Chelsea Flower Show

Known for re-wearing her favorite pieces, Kate Middleton once again turned to her beloved ME+EM pink dress—this time pairing it with her go-to Castañer wedges for a summery royal outing.

Kate Middleton repeats her bubblegum-pink ME+EM dress with toasted-brown Castañer “Carina” espadrille wedges at the 2023 Chelsea Flower Show on May 22, 2023 (Credit: PA Images / INSTARimages)

The Heritage and Craftsmanship Behind the Castañer “Carina” Espadrille

Made from durable canvas and set on a jute wedge heel, the Castañer “Carina” Espadrille is a signature style from the heritage Spanish brand Castañer, founded in 1927.

The label revolutionized the espadrille—once humble peasant footwear—by transforming it into a chic fashion staple.

In fact, the brand famously collaborated with Yves Saint Laurent in the 1970s to create the first wedge-heeled espadrille, cementing its status as a timeless warm-weather essential.

Meghan Markle has also embraced Carina’s effortless sophistication. On her royal tour of South Africa, she proved how the classic espadrille can strike the perfect balance between elegance and approachability.

Meghan Markle wears a black-and-white Mayamiko Dalitso wrap dress with black Castañer “Carina” espadrille wedges during her visit to Nyanga, South Africa, on September 23, 2019 (Credit: Cover Images)

The Design Details That Define the Castañer “Carina”

Characterized by its soft canvas or cotton upper, rounded or almond-shaped toe, and elegant ankle-tie ribbons, the Carina blends Mediterranean ease with refined craftsmanship. Its braided jute wedge is paired with a vulcanized rubber sole for comfort and durability, while various heel heights—from around 60 mm (2.5 inches) to 100 mm (4 inches)—offer options for every occasion.

From casual strolls to summer soirées, the Carina’s enduring appeal lies in its balance of comfort and sophistication. Whether you prefer a neutral hue or a bold seasonal shade, you’ll find a pair to match your wardrobe.

Available in a wide range of colors and finishes at Zappos, Farfetch, and Amazon, this versatile espadrille remains a perennial favorite for effortless summer dressing.

To see why these wedges are a perennial favorite, let’s explore the memorable ways celebrities have styled the Carina.

Kate Middleton’s Nude Castañer Carina Wedged Espadrilles

The popular royal joined a photography workshop for Action for Children, run by the Royal Photographic Society at Warren Park, in Kingston, England, on June 25, 2019.

Kate Middleton wore a ruffled midi Ridley London dress for a photography workshop for Action for Children, run by the Royal Photographic Society at Warren Park in Kingston, England, on June 25, 2019 (Credit: Michael Carpenter / IZZY / WENN / Phil Lewis)

She styled her classic Carina espadrilles with a ruffled midi dress from Ridley London.

On the same day, it was announced that Queen Elizabeth would pass on her role as the patron of the Royal Photographic Society to the Duchess. Queen Elizabeth had been a patron of the society for 67 years!

Kate Middleton steps out in a flowy green-and-pink Ridley London “Virginia” paisley-print dress paired with her signature tan Castañer “Carina” espadrille wedges

Molly Sims’ Black Castañer Carina Wedged Espadrilles

If you read up on Molly Sims today, chances are you won’t find much celebrity news about her. From being THE Sports Illustrated girl, her social media account is now peppered with stuff about wellness, friends, and family – and we adore her for it.

In July 2015, Molly Sims was spotted at another family affair, attending the Hampton Living Is Good! Family fundraiser.

Molly Sims adds a touch of vintage charm with a gold heart pendant necklace while attending a Hamptons charity event

The mom-of-two flashed her legs in a conservative black midi dress, which she paired with an all-black lace-up espadrille from Castañer.

The model keeps things elegant in a black lace midi dress styled with black Castañer “Carina” wedges at the Hamptons “Super Saturday” fundraiser

Her adorable son, Brooks, even joined her in the middle of the red carpet shoot, showcasing their strong mother-son bond.

A closer look at Molly Sims’ black Castañer “Carina” espadrille wedges featuring ankle ties and a jute wedge heel

For more fashion inspiration, see how Nicky Hilton wore them with a blue-and-white floral midi dress while walking her dog.

Molly Sims shares a playful moment with her son, Brooks, while posing on the red carpet in her chic black ensemble

Molly Sims poses with her husband Scott Stuber and their children, all coordinating in breezy summer neutrals at the Hampton Living Is Good! children’s event in Bridgehampton, New York on July 19, 2015 (Credit: Michael Carpenter / IZZY / WENN / Phil Lewis)

Comfortable as espadrilles may be, it’s hard to wear them on the red carpet because they tend to look too casual. Molly Sims, however, pulled it off with the all-black Castañer number.

Castañer elevates summer sophistication with the black “Carina” espadrille wedges, featuring canvas uppers, wraparound ankle ties, and hand-braided jute heels that balance timeless craftsmanship with effortless elegance

Explore More Celebrity Espadrille Moments

As we wrap up our look at the timeless Castañer Carina, keep exploring how celebrities have styled their favorite espadrilles—from effortless beach wedges to luxe designer updates.