I, too, coveted the Stuart W Alex espadrille, but couldn't justify the hefty price tag, especially living in the North East, where the winters are long and harsh, so an espadrille would only see a few months of use.  I just purchased these shoes and they are absolutely beautiful.  The color IS a little darker than I expected (I ordered the khaki), but the fit is perfection and they don't hurt at all.  I read other reviews of them running small, not fitting around the ankle or having NO arch support.  That, for me, was absolutely NOT the case.  I am a size 6.5-7 depending on the shoe and I also have a wide foot.  These shoes fit and wear like a dream and I've had no problems.  You will not be disappointed with this purchase.