The Laidback Allure

This past summer, no European holiday suitcase felt complete without a pair of Manebí espadrilles. The Italian-rooted brand has become a quiet essential for design-minded travellers, offering handcrafted shoes and resortwear that don’t follow trends, but refine the timeless pieces worn most often — and most joyfully.

Founded in Milan in 2013 by Vera Drossopulo Bogdano and Antonello Benati, Manebí was born from a desire to create the perfect shoe for summers spent between the beach and the city. Their original espadrilles, which were designed in Italy and handcrafted in Spain using jute soles and soft canvas, were an instant success. That early idea has since evolved into a full lifestyle offering: swimwear, linen sets, sandals, accessories, and bags, all designed with the same relaxed polish that first put the brand on the map.

Today, Manebí stands for two things: simplicity and quality. It’s these values that have earned the brand its cult following, with pieces that are as easy to wear as they are to admire. Every pair of espadrilles is featherlight, breathable, and structured just enough to support long days on the move. Whether wandering markets in Bangkok or enjoying the beach in Bodrum, the Manebís feel just as good at 8 p.m. as they did at 8 a.m.

Aside from supreme comfort, what sets Manebí apart is its refusal to overdesign. The silhouettes found in the brand’s collections are minimal; the branding nearly invisible. This has in turn allowed the brand to lean into its “if you know, you know” energy that appeals to those who value discretion over display. Fashion insiders, editors, and off-duty models have been spotted in them, but the brand never relies on celebrity endorsements to speak for its quality. Manebí’s commitment to sustainability is also woven into its identity. Its materials, comprising natural jute, organic cotton, responsibly sourced leather, are chosen for their durability and lower environmental impact. Rather than releasing seasonal hype drops, the brand focuses on long-lasting staples that return year after year, reimagined in new tones or textures.

Looking to get your own pair? True to its name — Manebí is derived from Calle Manebí, a street in St. Tropez — the brand now operates boutiques in luxurious coastal hot spots like Capri, Cannes, Ibiza, Portofino, and Saint-Tropez. It also sits comfortably on the shelves and pages of giant retailers, including MatchesFashion, Harrods, Selfridges, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Net-A-Porter. 

Slip a pair into your carry-on and they may not leave your feet. That’s because some brands style a look. But Manebí styles a way of living.

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