Every summer, there's one piece that everyone has. Remember the peasant skirt from several years ago? This year, I think gladiator sandals are going to be that one ubiquitous piece. But that's okay, because they're pretty awesome. Yes, gladiators fit in with the whole well-traveled bohemian aesthetic, but in their own way, they can work with a number of styles. There are countless variations on the theme (wedges, platforms, etc.), but I decided to stick with the flat kind, as they look less fashion-victim and more classic. I also like metallics, as they look more current than plain old neutrals.
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I think gladiator sandals look particularly fresh in a metallic--the styling of these Giuseppe Zanotti sandals is pretty basic, but the rose-gold shade makes them look all the more glamorous.
Likewise, the gold tone of these Stella McCartney sandals makes them look fancy, but the braided design looks a little more low key--it's a gladiator sandal without all the fussy buckles and hardware.
One of my absolute favorites, however, is this gorgeous Yves Saint Laurent shoe. It's a streamlined, modernized version of the gladiator, and the shape of it almost reminds me of a Brancusi sculpture. Expect to see these on well-heeled women everywhere.
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This Modern Vintage gladiator sandal takes the look a step further with a metallic snakeskin finish to the leather. It's a more fashiony version of the trend, perfect for edgy downtown girls.
A similar shape but a more subtle design, Matt Bernson's gold gladiator sandals are well-made and iconic--you can't go wrong with these.
Miu Miu's metallic gladiator sandals are more goddess than gladiator, but their lace-up styling is a nice feminine alternative to all those straps and buckles. Also, I am shocked to find a pair of Miu Miu shoes for under $500!
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The overwhelming majority of these sandals tend to be gold, so here's a silver pair from Unisa. They're nothing totally out of the ordinary, but if you're afraid gladiator sandals are going to be a short-lived fad, their price isn't so hard on the wallet.
Nine West has lately been knocking off everyone from Gucci to Prada, and while I can't quite put my finger on the originator of these two-tone Jobilyn sandals, they get points for fashion at a price nonetheless.
Dolce Vita's Carnival sandal is one of my favorite of the bunch. It has the streamlined look of the YSL sandal without the three-figure price tag, and the fact that the vertical strap extends past the ankle will have a lengthening effect on your legs. Which is never a bad thing, if you ask me.
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