We've Tried Dozens of Espadrilles—These Are the Ones That Made the Cut
Espadrilles have a history that spans millennia, and their enduring popularity is no coincidence. Originating in the Pyrenees region of Spain and France, these humble shoes were once the footwear of choice for soldiers and laborers, prized for their affordability and durability. Over time, espadrilles have evolved from practical staples into the stylish, trendy shoes we know and adore today.
So, how should one style this classic shoe? Consider pairing a statement wedge with a midi skirt, an off-the-shoulder top, and a mini bag for a vacation-ready ensemble, or style an espadrille sandal with knit shorts and a lightweight T-shirt for a relaxed daytime look. From Mary Jane silhouettes and unique platforms to gladiator-inspired straps and easy slip-on mesh styles, ELLE editors have rounded up their favorite summer espadrilles you're sure to love.
'Searching for the perfect, versatile summer shoe? These Mary Jane espadrilles effortlessly blend two of my favorite styles into one fun silhouette. The airy crochet knit, paired with the classic espadrille sole, not only looks charming but also keeps your feet cool and comfortable in warm weather.'—Laura Tarafa, commerce writer
'There's a reason everyone from Jennifer Lawrence to the Capitol's politicians loves Rothy's shoes: They're comfortable. And lately, the sustainable shoe brand has been making some seriously cute silhouettes. Case in point: the Espadrille Mary Jane. I feel like these will give my looks that French-girl level of chic—and in black, they give an edge that feels a little more in line with my personal style.'—Dale Arden Chong, senior fashion commerce editor
Renowned for its ultra-comfortable styles, Dolce Vita delivers a fresh, feminine take on the espadrille—combining leather, mesh, and a delicate bow for a look that's both distinctive and modern.
I love Madewell for its timeless staples—including the chic footwear selection. This thong sandal, featuring delicate leather straps in rich caramel, is a versatile choice that can be easily dressed up or down.
'The Rolls-Royce of espadrilles that go with everything. Castañer's black canvas style is the perfect height and features a sloped heel to keep you from slipping. Case closed.'—Claire Stern Milch, digital director
'Yes, mesh espadrilles exist, and who knew they could be so chic? Style them with your favorite ribbed socks, or go barefoot to show off a fresh pedicure. This pair earns bonus points for its extra padding and built-in arch support, providing all-day comfort. I adore this design so much; I'm already eyeing up the white version to add to my lineup.'—Laura Tarafa, commerce writer
With its gently sloped arch and supportive ankle strap, the Manon Espadrille offers lasting comfort for all-day wandering. Crafted from velvety-soft leather and detailed with supportive crisscross straps, this elegant, sturdy pair is sure to turn heads—especially when styled with ankle-grazing denim or a gauzy cotton midi dress.
'I got these espadrilles on a whim a few summers ago, and I'm so glad I did. They have that classic, lace-up silhouette, but the wedge heel isn't too tall, so they're still comfortable and easy to walk in. They're great for those outdoor outings when you're spending most of your time on your feet. Case in point: At Cannes this year, I raced from my hotel to a screening on foot in these shoes—and made it just in time.'—Erica Gonzales, deputy editor, culture
Yes, Amazon offers chic espadrilles too—and this style from Mikarka is perfect for complementing all your summer vacation dresses. Not only do these wedges elongate your legs, but the four straps also provide secure support at the front of your foot.
Isn't this combination of contrasting trim binding and a Mary Jane silhouette just delightful? Naguisa, known for its beautifully handcrafted espadrilles from Spain, brings comfort and sophistication to every pair. I can't recommend its polished styles enough!
Crafted from sumptuous suede and finished with Gianvito Rossi's signature logo buckle, this pair exudes understated luxury—perfectly complementing a tailored co-ord or an airy linen dress with effortless sophistication.
Add a vibrant touch to your look with this stylish platform wedge, featuring Missoni's iconic zigzag pattern. From beach wedding guest dressing to laid-back brunch plans, this choice is sure to impress.
Glide from sand to street in this flat espadrille slide, showcasing delicate hibiscus embroidery details that'll elevate any warm-weather ensemble effortlessly. Consider styling them with your favorite cutoffs or go-to jean skirt and a crisp cotton blouse.
Embrace the tomato-red color trend with this bold espadrille from Anthropologie. A practical option for stylish city strolling, this daring shade adds a hint of intrigue to any ensemble.
Effortlessly cool and casual, this style features supple leather straps accented by subtle knots. The striking contrast between the black leather and natural jute wedge delivers a bold, eye-catching finish to any summer look.
These effortless slip-ons are perfect for everything from running errands to beach days to casual lunches with friends. Their neutral hue means they'll pair seamlessly with almost everything in your wardrobe.
Picture how chic these would look paired with a dark-wash denim dress and a slouchy hobo bag. Featuring Gucci's timeless monogram print, these sturdy flatforms boast a supportive design and come in the most beautiful deep blue denim hue.
This dazzling gold metallic style measures 4.3 inches tall and exudes drama. It transitions effortlessly from day to night, which means you can style it with a breezy top and white linen pants for an opulent lunchtime look, or slip into a slinky black maxi dress and a coordinating gold clutch for a captivating evening ensemble.
Another Naguisa style to keep on your radar: the Thalis Espadrille. This intricate, beautifully crafted design features a uniquely woven vamp and comes in an elegant light-brown suede. Wear this standout pair with a flouncy summer minidress and statement jewelry.
This Cinq à Sept style commands attention. A standout detail? Bold, round, metallic silver studs against black leather—all anchored by a delicate ankle strap.
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6 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
30 "Internet Famous" Fashion Items From Amazon
Vintage Reebok sneakers to add a lil' retro vibe to your OOTD. They're so versatile that you can pair 'em with anything — dresses, skirts, sweats, you name it — and you'll absolutely slay while staying comfy all day. The midsoles are designed to absorb impact, and the padded foam sock liners will keep your feet nice and cushy. A tennis skirt perfect for any outdoor activity, or just grabbing brunch with the girlies. They feature built-in shorts to provide coverage, especially when a gust of wind decides to target you. Reviewers absolutely LOVE the stretchy material! Promising review: "Finally found the perfect length skirt that doesn't ride up and is so comfy! The fabric is super stretchy and the pockets are so convenient. It is a lightweight skirt and you can dress it down or dress it up!" —KelleyPrice: $25.99+ (available in XS–3XL and in 37 colors/styles) Vintage oversized sunglasses that'll have you strutting down the street to "Rich Girl" because that's what you'll look like — but no one will guess that you actually spent under $20 on these sunnies. (They might, however, do a double take and wonder if they know you from a TV show.) Promising review: "I wanted an inexpensive pair of glasses to wear to the pool, and had low expectations for these. But I was not prepared for how cute these would be. These are my new favorite glasses, and now I'm going to buy another pair for the pool. I'll be wearing these everyday!" —MXGamerPrice: $14.99 (available in 13 colors) Or a pair of retro-inspired sunglasses because they look quite similar to Prada and will have you looking super ~sleek and chic~. New Balance 574 Core Sneakers that rightfully deserve their spot on the "Internet Famous" page. Not only are they incredibly stylish, but they also feel like plush clouds with every step you take. Promising review: "I'm in love with these shoes! I love the look of them which I feel is very retro. The sizing is perfect as described. They are extremely comfortable and durable. I bought them before completing a month of walking 100 miles and they held up perfectly!" —A. WiesePrice: $99.95 (available in sizes 5–12, wide sizes, and eight colors) A casual blazer — they're perfect for a business casual look to wear into the office, or for a boss B look as you roam the city streets. It features a basic lapel collar and a draped, relaxed fit. Promising review: "I am blown away by the quality!!! This goes above and beyond the normal Amazon find. They are true to size. I'm currently a large, and a large fits perfectly. Although, if I was needing or wanting a little more room I think I could comfortably size up. I will most definitely be purchasing more colors!" —ツNatasha❤︎Price: $49.99 (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 23 colors) A long cover-up to keep you from feeling exposed as you stroll down the boardwalk and provides ample coverage to prevent burns. Plus, it doubles as a sundress and will make you look like a ~beach goddess~. Promising review: "Bought this for a beach vacation and have been wearing it non-stop. Very comfortable and versatile. Fabric washes and travels well. The texture of the material keeps it from wrinkling or at least looking wrinkled. I am 5'2" and the length is right at my ankles, not too long or short." —BeckyPrice: $38.88+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 24 colors). A sleeveless crop top that reviewers are gushing over because 1) it's not see-through, and 2) it's double-lined. You know what that means? A. bra. free. summer!!! Promising review: "This fit amazingly. I would compare the material to Skims. So soft. I didn't wear a bra and you would have never known because it's so fitting — it smooths everything out. Definitely will be buying in more colors." —RachelPrice: $12.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 26 colors) Slingback heels guaranteed to girl-bossify you. Pair 'em up with a darling brunch dress or some office slacks, and you'll be radiating sophistication. OK, sure, they're not REAL Chanel, but they certainly look quite similar — even reviewers say so! Lounge pants because you deserve to couch rot in the comfiest outfit ever. After all, you work so hard. Treat yourself to these very soft, ultra stretchy, and super comfortable bottoms. Promising review: "If you are looking for the comfiest pants with pockets, then these are the best! The fit is on point and the length is perfect if you like them a little baggy. The material is thin, soft, and stretchy. The pockets are deep and actually useful. I am buying more colors since they are great year-round and fit like a dream. I'm not just saying that, it took me years to find quality pants like these." —Alissa FultonPrice: $16.99+ (available in sizes S–5XL and in 27 colors) A strapless maxi dress that'll prevent you from getting unwanted tan lines. With a ruffled bust and flowy skirt, you'll definitely be raking in all those compliments. Promising review: "This dress fits perfectly according to size, the material drapes elegantly, and the colors are vibrant. The elastic at the top is enough to hold the dress effortlessly in place, but is not an irritant to the skin. It is quite versatile, as it can be worn with flip-flops and a pony tail, or dressed up with pretty wedges and jewelry — good for a picnic or a wedding!" —Tara M. LescoPrice: $36.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and in seven prints) A JW Pei scrunched baguette bag because there is no other purse worthy of holding your phone, wallet, and keys when you're out and about. This is *guaranteed* to elevate your 'fit to a new level. Or a JW Pei Shoulder Bag that's also worthy of holding all your essentials. It's just a bit more sleek with a unique, curved silhouette Promising review: "It's such a cute purse, amazing material, super soft leather, and spacious inside! The price isn't bad at all for such an amazing purse!" —brittany $89+ (available in 26 colors) An oversized denim jacket because it'll never go out of style. It'll elevate any outfit, all year long. While it's super roomy to layer over sweaters in the colder months, it's also lightweight enough to throw over a tee in the summer. Promising review: "Super cute oversized denim jacket that fits true to size. The fabric is soft and very comfortable. It's also versatile with the ability to dress it up or down. Overall, I highly recommend having this in your closet." —Lydia LPrice: $40.14+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 11 color) A spandex-blend slip maxi dress — wouldn't it be nice to look dressy but stay comfy at the same time? Thanks to this Skims lookalike, you can! Reviewers *love* how the material is just as soft as that brand's, and some even say it's better! A pair of high-waisted palazzo trousers that are far superior compared to plain ol' trousers. They'll ~zhuzh~ up any outfit, whether it's casual or dressy, thanks to their pleats and flowy hem. Plus, it's hard to find good quality pants for under $50 — well, except for these! Amazon Essential flip-flops because sometimes all you need is a no-frills (but still adorable) pair of sandals to enjoy your beach day. They feature a memory foam insole that make them an absolute joy to walk around in. Promising review: "Favorite pair of sandals! They are so comfortable, I have a few colors in them. I want to order every color offered. The price is amazing! They are very lightweight and just form to the foot so comfortably." —Lindsey WootenPrice: $14.03+ (available in sizes 5–15, wide sizes, and 11 colors) Amazon Essential flip-flops because sometimes all you need is a no-frills (but still adorable) pair of sandals to enjoy your beach day. They feature a memory foam insole that make them an absolute joy to walk around in. Promising review: "Favorite pair of sandals! They are so comfortable, I have a few colors in them. I want to order every color offered. The price is amazing! They are very lightweight and just form to the foot so comfortably." —Lindsey WootenPrice: $14.03+ (available in sizes 5–15, wide sizes, and 11 colors) A sleeveless mini dress with adjustable self-tie straps, a ruched bust, and tiered skirt — the perfect ingredients for the perfect summer dress! Promising review: "Love this dress. Beautiful color, durable, NOT see through, nice and light material. Comfortable to wear." — $29.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and in 16 colors) Baggy wide-leg jeans for those who think that jeans should be worn in every season (aka me). Because of the wide-legs, these pants offer some breathing room to hopefully prevent you from marinating in your own sweat. Promising review: "I absolutely love these jeans! They fit perfectly! They are incredibly soft and stretchy. I will definitely be buying more!" —AmberPrice: $38.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and in 14 washes) Biker shorts that feature that trendy cross-waist that everyone has come to know and love. They have pockets on each side (win), moisture-wicking fabric (another win), and four-way stretch. (Winner winner, chicken dinner!) Whether you're running errands, going on a hike, or working out, these shorts are coming along for the ride. Promising review: "I love love love these!! The V-cut is very nice and I love that it has pockets. Very cute and comfortable. One of my favorite pairs of shorts." —Jessica HowardPrice: $19.99 (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 21 colors) Platform Sandals so you can have the height of heels without the discomfort of being on the balls of your feet all day. Plus, they're absolutely adorable and chic — talk about benefits on benefits! Promising review: "Bought these shoes to wear to Vegas because I didn't want to die in heels. Lasted me all night without having my feet hurt. They're a little snug when first putting on, but after walking in them they do stretch out without being too loose. Easy to slip on and wear. Also wore them for the pools and the quality has remained the same." —JadaPrice: $37.98+ (available in sizes 6–11 and in five colors) A flowy maxi skirt that come in so many adorable colors and patterns — good luck trying to choose just one. They're made with chiffon, so you'll be feeling breezy all day long under the scorching sun. Promising review: "I love the length of this long skirt. Usually, skirts are a little on the shorter side for me, but not this skirt. It is the perfect long length and I love the feel of the satin-like fabric. Super cute skirt." —Mrs. JPrice: $33.88 (available in sizes S–XXL and in 27 colors/designs) A midi silk blend skirt because it'll make you look elegant as heck whether you're going to a party or getting dinner with your boo. Promising review: "I have this skirt in three colors! Dress it up with a pair of kitten heels and a cute sweater or pop on a cute white tee and some sneakers. Material feels nice and wrinkles were easily removed." —Amazon CustomerPrice: $23.40+ (available in sizes XS–XL and in 22 colors/designs) A satin scarf — the perfect touch to any outfit if you want that quiet luxury look meshed with a hint of elegance. You can wear it *so* many different ways: around your neck, as a headband (either on you or your dog), or even tied to your handbag! Promising review: "This is a beautiful scarf, even better than I expected. It can be worn many ways with a variety of outfits." —SophiaPrice: $6.99+ (available in 25 styles) A pair of clogs because the Birkenstock Boston clogs are cute and all, but you know what's not? The hefty price. These look exactly the same, minus the logo — but let's be so real, no one's checking for that. And you know what's funny? A lot of reviewers actually think that these are comfier than Birks! Promising review: "I wanted the new Birkenstock clogs but I didn't want to pay $100+, on them! These shoes are the best [alternatives] ever and the quality is amazing! Looks exactly the same and is so much more affordable!!" —ianPrice: $37.80+ (available in sizes 5–12 and in 11 colors) A button-down shirt that comes in the most adorable print. And when I say adorable, I seriously mean it. Animals, fruits, and trees, oh my! Plus this satiny fabric will have you feeling relaxed and cool all day long. Promising review: "Didn't know it was a silky material!! It's sooo comfortable and easy to wear! We got matching ones for our safari. :)" —Marissa MeizzPrice: $28.99 (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 24 prints) A ruched midi dress, perfect for a GNO! It features an adjustable string to tailor the length to your liking and a cowl neck, sure to turn heads left and right. Promising review: "Needed a dress for a wedding. I was a bit nervous with this color but it looks amazing! Got several compliments throughout the night. I love that you can change the length of the dress to what fits perfectly." —Alison AngelucciPrice: $48.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and in 29 colors) A crochet tote bag adorned with flowers and guaranteed to become your new go-to beach bag. It'll sit comfortably on your shoulder and the mesh-like fabric allows your belongings to air out and prevent them from collecting sand. Promising review: "I needed a cute tote bag for the days where I don't want to be sporting around a nice purse, and this one was perfect. It can hold many things surprisingly, and the material feels great, and the design is cute. I definitely recommend!" —MPrice: $12.99 (available in four styles) A midi slip dress perfect for any occasion because you can dress it up or down and still look fab! The straps are adjustable so you can have it sit on your shoulders juuust right. Reviewers love how the material is thicker than your typical slip dress — but personally, I'm obsessed with the side slits that add some ~spice~. A one-piece swimsuit that'll have you looking absolutely, positively fab-u-lous with the deep V-neck and hip cutouts, while you chill on the beach or take a dive into the warm waters of the Caribbean. Promising review: "I absolutely loved this swimsuit! It fit like a glove. I'm seriously considering pairing the suit with some jeans or a skirt for a different look! Great price too, this will be worn all summer!" —Mashana BurtonPrice: $29.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and in seven styles)
Yahoo
7 hours ago
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"I almost missed practice a couple times" - When Magic Johnson turned a Bel-Air mansion into his own basketball-disco paradise
"I almost missed practice a couple times" - When Magic Johnson turned a Bel-Air mansion into his own basketball-disco paradise originally appeared on Basketball Network. By the mid-1980s, Magic Johnson had already conquered just about everything worth conquering. Championships, Finals MVPs, endorsement deals, you name it. But even with all the on-court success and off-court fame, he was still living in a Culver City apartment, which didn't quite align with his superstar status in the Association. All of that changed when the Los Angeles Lakers icon finally found a home that matched his off-court persona and energy: a six-bedroom, Tudor-style estate tucked deep in the hills of Bel-Air. This wasn't about flexing his money, although it definitely had some of that as well; it was about finally finding the place he could call home, no matter how cheesy it might sound. From the moment Magic stepped foot inside, he knew the search for his place under the sun was over. "We started off with this one," Johnson said in 1985 via the LA Times. "I told him, 'I don't have to look anymore, George (his attorney). This is it.' All I had to see was one room (now his disco), the racquetball court and the bathtub. Where else am I really gonna be?" "I always wanted to own a home, but I wanted it to be different. I wanted a special place," Magic Man added. "Hey, I'm blessed. I never would have imagined this. The house I grew up in back home could probably fit into the gym (racquetball court), and your imagination can only go as far as what you've seen." So perfect that it felt like a dream for Johnson The house sits at the end of a winding road, with canyon walls on both sides and nothing but open green space stretching out behind it. It's quiet. No traffic, no noise, no distractions. Just a backyard with twin grills, a red-brick pool deck (in which Magic hadn't just yet jumped in) and a whole lot of open blue sky above the City of Angels. It was perfect for enjoying the little bit of time that an NBA player of his caliber has on his hands. However, that's the kind of setup that can easily break your daily routine, and, in Johnson's case, mess up with practice schedules. "I almost missed practice a couple times," the man who orchestrated the Showtime in LA said. "I'd be out here eating breakfast. I'd be daydreaming, just kind of in a trance, and then I'd look at my watch and see I was almost late for practice." In addition to all that, inside the house, Magic had transformed one of the rooms into a disco, complete with lights and a sound system, where he could unwind and throw a few moves when the mood struck. "I don't just like music, I love it," Johnson added. "When I saw this room, I said, 'Oh, man, I know what I want to do with this .' I spend an hour or two in here every day. This is where I live." Magic didn't stop after getting his mansion That Bel-Air mansion might've been Magic's first real taste of a settled life in Los Angeles, but he didn't settle for long. After moving in, Johnson added three more championship rings to his resume: one in 1985, another in 1987 and his final one in 1988. He finally received his first, well-deserved, MVP award and added two more for good measure. Magic Man also continued to elevate the Lakers dynasty alongside Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and James Worthy to make it one of the greatest dynasties in sports history. By the time the decade was over, so was the debate about where he stood among the game's greatest point guards. Johnson had redefined the position and the trophy case did all the talking for him. Even now, 40 years later, he's still the bar that every new floor general gets measured against. The man who used to nearly miss practice while eating breakfast next to the Bel-Air hills… And no matter how many properties he's owned since, that first one still feels like the place where Magic truly felt like story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Jul 18, 2025, where it first appeared.
CNBC
2 days ago
- CNBC
41-year-old lawyer relocated to Paris, has no plans of moving back to the U.S.: 'It's where I'm supposed to be in the world'
After law school, Adriel Sanders, 41, found work as a corporate securities, mergers and acquisitions attorney. But she didn't enjoy practicing law. "The whole firm knew it. It was not a well-kept secret. I tried to pretend like I wanted to be a partner, but I couldn't maintain that image. I didn't even want to be a lawyer," Sanders, tells CNBC Make It. "I didn't enjoy the work and the expectation to work all the time and I will probably be one of the only attorneys who says it, but I don't think it's that intellectually stimulating." Sanders, who goes by Adriel Felise online, quit that job and eventually went to work as general counsel for a publicly traded company. At the time, Sanders was living in Washington, D.C. and making $286,656 a year, according to documents reviewed by CNBC Make It. She lived in a studio apartment and paid about $3,000 a month in rent. "What stereotypically happens to most Black women when they work in corporate America is the type of things I experienced my whole career. You're constantly hitting up against this glass ceiling," Sanders says. "I was deeply and truly miserable at the very depths of my little heart and little soul. I knew that it was not sustainable." While working her 9-to-5, Sanders dreamt of starting her own clothing line. She even pursued photography in her free time as a way to escape the endless grind of her career. "Photography was very much my creative outlet. For me, starting a fashion line is about doing what I should have always been doing and not about leaving a secure career. I feel like I'm stepping into my purpose," Sanders says. In 2017, Sanders and her two brothers went to Paris for the first time. That trip changed everything. When they first arrived in the city, Sanders was a bit disgruntled after having an uncomfortable flight. Her younger brother reminded her to look around and take in where they were. "It instantly clicked. I was like, 'This is your home. This is where you're supposed to be in the world and this is where you will always be," she says. "I knew I had to move to Paris." Sanders traveled back to Paris several times after that first visit. "The moment I stepped off the plane, I felt like I could just breathe," she says. In 2019, she decided she would make the move across the Atlantic. At the beginning of 2020, Sanders quit her job, gave her landlord notice, and started the process to obtain a French visa. She contacted Adrian Leeds from HGTV's "House Hunters International" to help find an apartment and flew to France for a few days while a moving company packed up her belongings and prepared to ship it all overseas. Sanders landed in Paris the day before France closed its border due to the covid-19 pandemic. "The slowness of the world meant that France sped up. We were all operating from the same level of confusion, so the good thing is that I was confused by what was happening, but so was everyone else," Sanders says. "I arrived the day before the lockdown, so there was no one and it was a complete dystopia." Sanders signed a lease for a one-bedroom apartment that cost 1,550 euros, or $1,815 USD, where she lived for two years. She then moved into a two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment and signed a three-year lease. The rent was 1,980 euros or $2,319 when she first moved in. It has since increased to $2,540 USD. Sanders lives in what they call an "unfurnished apartment" in Paris, which means she had to purchase her own kitchen cabinets, stove, and washing machine. She estimates that she spent about $5,000 on the kitchen and close to another $10,000 to make the place really feel like home. "Could I have done it cheaper, 100% but my view is that I don't know when I will leave so I want to have things the way I want them," she says. In addition to rent, Sanders spends, on average, about 963 euros or $1,128 per month on expenses, which include household bills like cable, internet, renter's insurance, dry cleaning, electricity and gas, private health insurance, and a Navigo transportation card. She also has an annual subscription to the Louvre, which costs 95 euros a year and a second museum card that can add an extra 50-100 euros a year to her expenses. She also pays 1,069.20 euros or $1,252 annually to a guarantor service, which allows her to continue renting in France. When Sanders first arrived in Paris, she did some consulting as a lawyer but decided it was finally time to bet on herself. She says she had about $200,000 in her business account and $70,000 in personal savings when she quit that job and put all of her focus on creating her fashion brand, Adriel Felise, and becoming a content creator. That money and her income from content creation helps to fund Sanders' new business venture. Her parents are retired and have been able to help her out as well. "I'm grateful for it because it gives me the cushion to do the runway launching for the fashion line and that to me is the most important goal. It gives me the freedom to know that I'm not going to fall and can pursue my dream," she says. Sanders is self-funding the production of her initial samples and prototypes, but hopes to raise at least $2 million and have her 10-piece collection ready for launch in 2026. Sanders says leaving the United States and her corporate law career behind helped her realize she's more resourceful than she thought. "I can use my strategic side that I learned as a lawyer, but implement it in a very creative way." she says. "I love fashion and I'm so happy that I can now just say that and be upfront about it because for so long it was treated as something that made me less serious." When Sanders was working as a lawyer, she used to take walks around her office building and dream about starting a fashion line, and now seeing it come to life still doesn't feel real. "There's still a part of me that strives and pushes for more so I don't know if I'm fully ready to say I'm proud but I feel like I'm actually happy, which I wasn't for so long and that's huge for me," she says. "My goal and desire is to inspire women — particularly black and brown women — to just pursue their dreams and goals. When they do it does not matter. The most important thing is that they be bold, move wisely, and just go for it." Sanders plans to keep Paris as her home base and eventually buy a home in the countryside. Since moving, Sanders has traveled all over France, Italy, Switzerland, Greece, and more. She is currently making plans to spend the rest of the summer in the Loire Valley or Normandy in northern France. "I wish I had had the courage to move sooner. I wish I had the courage to do it after my first semester of law school to either drop out or enroll in business school and do something different that would have given me more options and choice to not get pigeonholed into something that I knew from the beginning I didn't want to be," she says. "I know that Americans really love to classify based upon age, race, etc. but I don't want to be classified as anything other than a woman who believed in herself enough to ignore the naysayers and go for her hopes and dreams."
