Established in 1927, Castañer began its journey in a workshop in Banyolas, driven by the vision of Luís Castañer and his cousin Tomás Serra. The duo was instrumental in leading the first industrialization of the firm, using machines designed by Serra himself, which are still in use today. As time passed, Luís Castañer and his wife Isabel took the reins, nurturing this dream to grow bigger.
The brand's pivotal turning point came in the 1970s when it crossed paths with Yves Saint Laurent. This historic collaboration in the fashion world led to the creation of the first espadrille with a wedge, transforming a shoe of popular origin into a sophisticated product closely associated with design and fashion.
Castaner's global expansion truly took off in the late '90s and early 2000s. The company opened its first single-brand store in Barcelona, followed by retail locations in the heart of Paris, Saint Tropez, Madrid, and Tokyo. In the mid-2010s, Castañer further broadened its global footprint with the opening of stores in Chile, Colombia, Singapore, and Seville.
Today, after more than 90 years, Castañer's presence has spread across the globe with 30 single-brand points, 1,000 points in multi-brand channels, and a presence in 50 countries. Despite this impressive expansion, the brand's essence remains as authentic as it was in 1927: a focus on tradition, craftsmanship, and natural materials.
Notable moments in Castañer's recent history include the launch of a capsule collection with Spanish fashion designer Manolo Blahnik in 2018, and the arrival of "Castañer by Missoni" in stores in 2019, a celebration of the 65th anniversary of Maison Missoni. In 2020, Castañer revealed "J'aime la Terre," an ethical collection made with recycled materials that showcased the brand's commitment to sustainable and artisanal manufacturing.
Castañer's espadrilles have evolved into a fashion symbol that captures the attention of numerous personalities in the star system. Artists, actors, models, and aristocrats alike have donned these timeless shoes, making them an enduring classic that never falls out of fashion. Today, the most international influencers and it-girls continue to show their affinity for Castañer, with the brand's espadrilles frequently featuring in their most desired styles.
The manufacturing process of Castañer's espadrilles is a testament to the brand's dedication to craftsmanship. The essence of the production remains unchanged, echoing the same timeless techniques used over the last 90 years.
In summary, Castañer, with its rich history and commitment to craftsmanship, continues to infuse a sense of timeless chic into the world of fashion, while staying true to its roots. From a humble workshop in Banyolas to a renowned global presence, the brand has carved out a unique niche in the fashion industry, offering a blend of tradition and sophistication that sets it apart.