How to Tie Your Strappy Sandals: A Practical Guide for a Perfect Fit
When the sun starts to shine and your feet crave lightweight footwear, strappy sandals become the key piece to complete any summer look. At XTI, we have a wide selection ranging from our classic women's espadrilles to the latest trends in women's sandals , and we know that a good lace makes all the difference in both comfort and aesthetics. With this guide, you'll discover everything you need to learn how to tie your strappy sandals firmly, securely, and with a professional finish, whether they're flat, wedge, or heeled.
Know your shoes and why it's key to know how to tie strappy sandals.
Before you begin, identify the type of straps: smooth leather, suede, synthetic nappa leather, or hand-woven. Each material has a different "grip point," and cleaning the surface with a dry cloth or soft brush makes tying easier. Place your foot in the sandal, adjusting the insole to your heel so that the straps won't slip when you tighten them. This initial step is essential to mastering how to tie strappy sandals and achieving a stable finish without sacrificing comfort.
Green espadrilles with straps
Essential technique for an infallible knot
The key to a perfect tie is striking a balance between firmness and comfort: not too tight that it causes marks, nor so loose that it loses shape. Start by crossing the straps just under the instep and bring both ends toward the ankle. From there, wrap one of the straps around the narrowest part and cross the other over it, creating a visible X. To finish, keep a small margin of length and tie a double bow, so that the knot always remains stable and is easy to untie at the end of the day.
- It crosses under the instep and goes up to the ankle.
- Wrap and create an X over the ankle bone.
- Make a double loop to secure the knot.
Women's red espadrilles
Tying variations according to your style
Once you've mastered the basic technique, experimenting with different bow heights and widths will allow you to personalize your look. For a boho-chic look, lengthen the straps by raising them a few inches up the calf and crossing them alternately in front and back, finishing with a discreet knot on the inside of the leg.
If you prefer a minimalist, urban style, let the straps fall just above the ankle, ensuring tension is maintained across the midfoot but allowing for a more lightweight lace. These variations not only add visual impact but also help you adjust the fit to suit your day's plan.
Tips for a long-lasting and comfortable fit
To preserve the knot throughout the day, it's a good idea to alternate strappy sandals with other designs and give them a short break after each use. If you notice the lace losing tension, sit down and readjust the tie, taking the opportunity to lightly massage the area with moisturizer to prevent chafing.
If your strips are made of rigid material, heat them with a hairdryer on a warm setting and flex them before putting them on; this will increase flexibility without damaging the structure. Finally, always check the symmetry of both feet in a full-length mirror: a slight misalignment can detract from your look.
With these tricks, you'll know how to tie strappy sandals masterfully, and you'll look professional with every step. Don't forget to explore our selection of women's espadrilles and the extensive catalog of women's sandals at XTI to find the pair that best suits your style. Tie, walk, and enjoy a carefree summer!
