The Olsen’s were my favourite childhood stars, I couldn’t get enough of their many TV programmes and films – I literally have a collection. I also remember the days when I first started to become aware of what I was wearing, although I couldn’t afford lavish brands, I was still conscious of what looked good. Walking into ASDA one day I realized the sign that said Mary-Kate and Ashley, I was so excited to see that the Olsen’s had bought out a clothing line, ultimately putting every item into my Mum’s shopping trolly. I guess this was the initial spark for the young stars that had soon become an inspiration for many. Well in-fact they still are.

It has come to light today that the Olsen’s have collaborated with the charitable shoe label, Toms. They have helped create a capsule collection for the up and coming season embracing Italian sourced materials such as cashmere and wool. Like all the shoes at Toms, each pair sold will aid a child in need, giving them their very own pair, along with that warm feeling and smile you get when making a new purchase.

The designs will take the summer espadrille style right into winter,with a mix of herringbone and plaid.  Both Tom’s and The Row’s customers will be able to give something back with every single purchase – what a great feeling.

The Row's Oliver Classics - £125

The Row's Courtney Classics - £110

Images courtesy of http://www.tomsshoes.co.uk

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Tory Burch has succeeded again with the Contrast Elastic Wedge Espadrilles.

The Tory Burch Contrast Elastic Wedge Espadrilles are possibly the best espadrilles to be released this year. So many of the hottest Spring / Summer 2011 shoe trends are together in these shoes and they all work together perfectly. The shoes are bright yellow, super high wedges, and are jute wrapped at the base.

The bright yellow is balanced perfectly with a neutral khaki so they are not too overpowering with the yellow. Even though the shoes have a 4.5″ wedge heel, there is a 1″ platform to help not only balance better when wearing them but also helps alleviate the pressure on the balls of your feet so you can wear the shoes comfortably. Another feature that helps you walk in such high heels are the criss cross straps at the vamp and the ankles which will securely hold your feet in the shoes. The jute wrap bases of the shoes are a very popular look, giving them a bit of a natural nautical feel to them.

Tory Burch Contrast Elastic Wedge Espadrilles

These are a great pair of shoes to wear when you are wearing a neutral color outfit because the pop of yellow will brighten you up. You also can wear this when you are wearing some yellow so you can carry this color to your feet. These shoes will look great with shorts, capri length pants or jeans, as well as a maxi skirt/dress.

Back in the 1980s one of the biggest trends in terms of shoes was slip on  loafers and flats. In 2011 a new type of flats has emerged, flat espadrilles. Espadrilles by definition are a shoe that have canvas or cotton uppers and the sole of the shoe is flexible,  made of rope or rubber that is formed to look like rope. Most modern day espadrille shoes tend to be a  wedge heel sandal  but this  spring and summer espadrille flats have become extremely popular.

Diane von Furstenberg is known for her great prints and patterns.She has come out with a collection of flat espadrilles called Cadence Flats. The come in many different colors, prints,  and patterns that DVF is known for. I love that each Cadence Flat Espadrilles has its own unique color pattern combination. My favorite color/pattern combinations are the two  black and white shoes. The Cadence splatter paint espadrilles  are casual and fun while the chain pattern shoes are more refined looking.

Diane Von Furstenberg Cadence Black/White Chain, Green/White Desert, Red/White Square, Blue/White Swirl
Diane von Furstenberg Cadence Splatter  Paint Flat Espadrilles

The Pedro Garcia Ibiza Espadrilles are a satin ballet flat that is quite feminine and soft. These shoes are perfect  to pair with when wearing ruffles or lace. The Ibizas are available  in 3 colors: Umber, Bisque (pictured), and Cadet Blue.

Pedro Garcia Ibiza Espadrille Flats

Lacoste is known for two things: their crocodile logo and that their style and clothing embodies the preppy fashion trend. Their Lacoste Marthe Espadrille personifies this look. it is a flat espadrille loafer with the signature crocodile and preppy red hue.

Lacoste – Marthe Espadrille

The striped nautical look is another fashion  trend from the 80s that has been modernized and updated.  Kate Spade Lido nautical flat espadrilles are a great example of this These shoes are feminine and are perfect to wear for a casual day. The Kate Spade Lido are available  in three cream color combinations : blue (pictured) , gold, and black. All three colors have a contrasting cognac trim on the shoe.

Kate Spade New York – Lido (Cream Canvas, Cognac Calf/Cobalt Ribbon)

There is no wrong flat espadrille shoe that you can buy. All of them are a great staple shoe to own this season. You will be comfortable and in fashion wearing these shoes. They are light weight and breathe easy for warm spring and summer days. They look great and there is so many great espadrilles to choose from this season. Be sure to click on the above links to learn more information about the flat espadrilles.