Duchess Sophie’s favourite summer wedges are back – and we’ve found the chicest new styles (Image: Getty / Penelope Chilvers)
The arrival of warmer weather has officially sparked sandal season, and if there is one shoe style that returns year after year, it is the trusty wedge. Offering all the elegance of a heel without quite so much discomfort, wedges have become a summer wardrobe staple for everything from holidays and garden parties to long days spent sightseeing.
That is perhaps why Duchess Sophie continues to reach for her pair time and time again. This week, the Duchess of Edinburgh stepped out alongside Prince Edward in Portugal as part of their three-day visit, celebrating the world’s oldest diplomatic alliance. While her flowing floral dress and effortless styling certainly caught the eye, it was her footwear that immediately stood out.
Sophie opted for a pair of classic white wedge espadrilles from Penelope Chilvers, a style she has worn repeatedly over the years. The timeless design has become something of a signature for the Duchess, 61, proving just how versatile a well-made pair of wedges can be.
Unfortunately, Sophie’s exact white pair is no longer available to shop. However, Penelope Chilvers has just launched a fresh collection of espadrilles that capture the same elegant, easy-to-wear feel.
From classic neutral suede styles and pretty embroidered designs to statement blue espadrilles and elevated tie-fastening silhouettes, the new arrivals offer something for every summer wardrobe. They also have a distinctly royal seal of approval. The British label is a long-standing favourite among royal women, with not only Duchess Sophie regularly wearing the brand, but also Princess Catherine and Zara Tindall.
We’ve rounded up some of our favourite Penelope Chilvers styles below – from timeless beige designs that will go with absolutely everything, to embroidered and colourful options guaranteed to brighten up any outfit. If Sophie’s latest appearance is anything to go by, wedges are showing no signs of going anywhere.
Shop Penelope Chilvers new wedges inspired by Sophie
The Mary Jane Suede Espadrille, in sand (Image: Penelope Chilvers)
These feel the closest to Duchess Sophie’s espadrilles. With a similar 7.5cm wedge heel and classic ankle-strap design, they capture that same timeless elegance that has made Penelope Chilvers shoes a summer wardrobe staple.
The soft sand suede gives them a slightly more relaxed feel than Sophie’s crisp white pair, making them incredibly versatile and easy to style. The neutral shade will work with everything from floaty floral dresses and linen tailoring to denim and lightweight summer separates, while the woven heel adds that signature espadrille charm – they also come sky blue and sizes 3 to 9.
What I particularly like about this style is how wearable they are. The closed-toe design offers a little more coverage than traditional sandals, while the modest wedge provides height without sacrificing comfort. If you’re looking to recreate Sophie’s effortless warm-weather style, these are about as close as it gets.
The Mary Jane Butterfly Embroidered Wedges, pink (Image: Penelope Chilvers)
Sophie’s wedges are all about timeless elegance; this embroidered pair offers a much more playful take on the royal favourite. Featuring the same wearable 7.5cm wedge heel and classic ankle-strap silhouette, they retain the comfort and versatility that make espadrilles such a summer staple, but with a colourful twist.
The standout feature is undoubtedly the beautiful floral embroidery across the toe, which instantly gives the design a more feminine and romantic feel. Combined with the soft blush pink detailing, these feel perfect for holidays, garden parties and alfresco lunches, while still being neutral enough to pair with a wide range of outfits.
Available in sizes 3 to 9, they capture the effortless charm of Duchess Sophie’s beloved wedges while adding a little more personality. If you’re looking to make a stronger statement than Sophie’s understated white pair, these are a lovely way to embrace the trend without sacrificing wearability.
The High Catalina Dali Espadrille in lemon (Image: Penelope Chilvers)
For those wanting something a little bolder than Duchess Sophie’s understated wedges, this sunshine-yellow pair offers a fashion-forward twist on the royal favourite. The vibrant hue taps into one of this season’s biggest colour trends, while the classic espadrille sole keeps the look feeling timeless and wearable.
Unlike Sophie’s closed-toe design, these feature an open-toe silhouette and dramatic ribbon ties that wrap elegantly around the ankle, creating a much more statement finish. The 12cm wedge heel also gives considerably more height than the Duchess’s go-to style, making them ideal for occasions when you want to elevate an outfit without sacrificing the comfort espadrilles are known for.
Available in sizes 4 to 9, these feel perfect for summer parties, holidays and special events. They still capture the effortless Mediterranean charm of Sophie’s beloved wedges, but with a playful, trend-led edge that is guaranteed to turn heads.
This pair feels like a modern update on Duchess Sophie’s classic espadrilles. With the same wearable 7.5cm wedge heel and closed-toe silhouette as her go-to style, they retain that timeless appeal while introducing a much more fashion-forward finish.
The standout detail is the vibrant embroidered design across the front, which instantly adds personality and a pop of colour. The soft pink upper gives them a feminine feel, while the contrasting detailing makes them perfect for anyone looking to make a stronger statement than Sophie’s understated neutral wedges.
Available in both pink and grey, they’re an easy way to add a little character to your summer wardrobe without sacrificing comfort. I’d style them with a floaty midi dress, cropped linen trousers or even denim for a chic holiday-ready look that still captures the effortless elegance Duchess Sophie does so well.