It was probably the blockbuster filmed megged by film iconoclast Ridley Scott that gave designers a push towards the right direction. ‘Gladiator’ star Russell Crowe may have further bolstered the fame of, well, gladiator sandals. Although the men who watched the movie may have wanted to be him, the women wanted to dress like him – footwear-wise. Many of the female species may have found inspiration in the footwear of that bygone era, and wanted to integrate the anachronistic fashion into their current wardrobes, with very little idea as to how.
Gladiator sandals, as the name implies, are based on a design that gained notoriety in the coliseums. Once an integral part of the gear of slaves, prisoners, and assorted ne’er-do-wells in their fight for survival; it has now become another tool in the arsenal of ever-changing women’s fashion. The basic form of the footwear is built around a flat sandal secured to the foot and lower leg by a number of straps. Legions of variations on the basic design have resulted in footwear that feels adventurous and exotic, while being comfortable and adaptable to any style and body shape.
Gladiator sandals can blend in with any kind of outfit, or give an ensemble a shock of contrast. Fashion-forward women can wear these with almost any outfit, such as a pair of pants, skirts, shorts, and short-to-medium length dresses. Personal style and creativity are the only limits to what you can do with a pair of gladiator sandals.
Again, the gladiator sandal has birthed litters of offspring. Trends and designers themselves dictate what can be done with the basic gladiator sandal structure. Comfort and style are but a couple of aspects that contribute to the evolution of the now-iconic footwear.
The Hottest Gladiator Sandals
Gladiator sandals have long since been described as haute couture. Due to this, meticulously decorated flats, heavy platform heels, and the classic stiletto have influenced the evolution of the footwear. These eclectic variations have made the gladiator sandal even more flexible – you could most likely find one to wear for a girl’s night out, daily casual wear, or even a gala or any formal evening event. Any pair would be a great addition to your wardrobe, and add an element of uniqueness and character to the clothes you already own.
Some of the hottest gladiator sandals in stores today include the Bettye Muller Rio,
Fandango, L.A.M.B. Sunny, Mia Rome, Nine West Jamil, Via Spiga Bitten, and Via Spiga Undo.
The Bettye Muller Rio sandals can make you look like a warrior, a goddess, or (gasp!) a warrior-goddess! The reflective silver material that makes up the few straps this sandal has impart a sense of majesty, while at the same time being sparse and minimalist. Possibly one of the most in-demand sandals as of now due to the aesthetic, it is quite comfortable, with one sturdy T-strap that wraps the foot atop the ankle, and two more straps that attach the main one to the sandal platform.
The aesthetic of the Fandango sandals take a more delicate approach to the normal gladiator sandals. The gold platform and knotted straps give the wearer a feeling of luxury, compounded by the mid-height heels. The front of the sandal sports a carefully-cut diamond of rich brown leather, while the thin straps are connected to each other with seemingly meticulous braids. Many women find this sandal best for wedding ceremonies, although the maid of honor could steal the bride’s thunder if she wears this. Practice safe use.
The L.A.M.B. Sunny is classy, yet innovative at the same time, much like the image of company founder, top-level fashionista, and pop singer Gwen Stefani. It is one of the best-selling flat sandals available, no doubt due to its brand and overall feel. Form and function are present in the Sunny, with a black T-strap attached to the heel, and smaller, skinnier brown straps connecting it to the ergonomic curved platform. These also come in beige and brown.
The Mia Rome is possibly the most authentic manifestation of the gladiator sandal for the contemporary market. The deep brown platform and thick straps give it a robust feel. Further adding to the flavor are two gold buckles on each of the heel wraps connected to the T-strap. It adds a lot to the design, while lending more comfort to the wearer, as the buckles aren’t just for display. They’re adjustable as well. It’s great for summer, and an all-year round sandal if you live in warmer climes.
The Nine West Jamil seemed to have deviated from its relatively conservative character with its elegant yet daring take on the gladiator sandal. The high stiletto heel and rounded toe give it a sexy personality, while the studded side straps and the rich brown leather lend it the touch of class that Nine West is known for. You can use them for casual wear, although dancers and models consider this sandal as part of their daily uniform for work.
The Via Spiga Bitten feels a bit like a hybrid. The small wedge-toed front gives you narrow, gold-buckled straps interwoven with a studded T-strap that has another buckle near the back of the shoe. The heels, however, are a different story. The thick, angular three-inch heels supporting a closed back seem overwhelming, compared to the intricate subtlety of the front. The seeming mish-mash may be what some women want, which is why the Bitten is a smashing success. It comes in four materials: dark brown leather, white leather, black leather, and black patent leather.
The Via Spiga Undo is an understated flat sandal. Its black leather heel straps are tubular, and the black platform is subtly offset by a clear rubber main strap and black and white animal print heel cushion. Classy and fun, you can wear the Undo at parties or nights out, without feeling overdressed. The overall theme also lends itself nicely to smart casual wear, although it could also work with a nice pair of shorts or jeans.
Since its appearance in the spring of the previous year, the gladiator sandal has proven to be a worthwhile benefactor to many a woman’s eclectic wardrobe. Other types of mainstream gladiator sandals, such as jelly gladiators and faux animal leather sandals can expand your fashion options even more. From the ruins of the Forum Romanum to the catwalks of Milan, the gladiator sandal has survived and thrived in the fashion arena, and will help combat any woman’s style ennui for seasons to come.
