The history of Castaner footwear begins in 1776, when Spanish shoemaker Rafael Castañer created the first espadrille. Centuries later, Castaner remains a family-owned business — producing some of the world’s finest canvas shoes as well as wedge sandals, leather boots, and handbags. Officially founded in 1927 by Luis Castañer and his cousin Tomás Serra, and currently headed up by Lorenzo and Isabel Castañer, the Castaner brand has long been a favorite among celebrities and trendsetters from all walks of life — from surrealist artist Salvador Dalí, to men who fought in the Spanish Civil War of the 1930s, to Scarlett Johansson. A collaboration with Yves Saint Laurent in Paris during the 1960s helped elevate Castaner to luxury brand status and set the stage for future partnerships with the likes of Louboutin and Louis Vuitton. Dress up your espadrilles with one of Castaner’s tote bags or satchels, or get through the winter months with the brand’s chic suede and box calf leather boots.