The ups and downs of a cult trend
Although they were invented around 700 B.C., gladiator sandals were booming in the 1960s and 1970s, when sandals in this style were popularized by the Spanish-French fashion designer Paco Rabanne. Not much later, these shoes adorned the shapely legs of Sophie Loren, Barbra Streisand and other popular celebrities, which definitely appealed to ordinary girls. These, inspired by world-famous stars, created original stylizations, treating gladiators as a perfect starting point.
For about two decades gladiators almost completely disappeared from the streets, and in 1993 Giovanni Versace brought them back to the salons. Fashion, however, did not stay with us for long, but in 2002 Calvin Klein brought it back to life again. In the following years, gladiators appeared at fashion shows with respected designers, such as Balenciaga, Chanel and Valentino.
These shoes took many forms, embellishing the catwalks and streets. Hearing after them was lost for a long time and there was no indication that gladiators would be on top again. Until now. Gladiators have returned to the wardrobes of the most fashionable influencers, becoming one of the hottest footwear trends for the upcoming summer.
Jennifer Lopez, Kendall Jenner and Rihanna loved them. We are sure that after reading our styling tips, these brilliant sandals will also steal your heart. Let's find out!
What exactly are gladiators?
Gladiators are a kind of summer boots. With wide or narrow straps, a fashionable look and an airy form, these shoes are a great alternative to classic sandals.
Their name refers to the gladiators of ancient Rome and Greece who wore these boots to fight. The special design not only provided foot protection on the battlefield, but also ensured the gladiators' thermal comfort. Thanks to Hollywood's passion for film plots inspired by those times, this original trend won the hearts of fashion lovers around the world.
Gladiators are usually distinguished by a brown color, a flat sole, open toes and numerous transverse stripes along the calf. In addition to the classic sandals in this style, various patterns and colors are available. A flat sole and bindings in the form of straps are a great option for everyday use, while the spectacular models on a pin with zippers are perfect for larger outings, creating a flirtatious final effect.
What to wear gladiators with?
Gladiators are a bull's-eye both when dealing with everyday errands and during events that require a more elegant outfit. These shoes are so versatile that they match many styles for different occasions.
The easiest way to use them to create a trendy one outfit is a combination of gladiator boots with a short cotton dress in a subdued shade. Match this outfit with gladiator boots on a flat sole or on a stiletto heel, which will change your daily outfit into an evening outfit in the blink of an eye. In addition to mini dresses, gladiators go well with airy maxi dresses or denim midi dresses.
Are you planning to visit the old town? Pair your gladiator boots with denim shorts and a white linen shirt. In this way, you will look very chic without losing comfort. Gladiators can also be combined with longer trousers. Then, aim for models that end just above the ankle, which will not disturb the final effect.
Who are gladiators good for?
These shoes will work for self-confident women who like to draw attention to themselves. In combination with a short dress, they look extremely coquettish, and in combination with a shirt and shorts, they create a classic and timeless look. look.
Gladiators are the perfect choice regardless of size. However, for ladies with larger calves, we suggest choosing lace-up sandals that will not dig into your legs, creating unnecessary folds.
If you want to optically lengthen your legs and at the same time slim your whole figure, opt for gladiator boots in a shade similar to your complexion. The summer tan will be perfectly emphasized by white gladiators. Attention! Black gladiators can create the impression of shorter and thicker legs.
Fashionable gladiators at your fingertips
Since you already know that your footwear collection cannot miss gladiators, be sure to visit ours online shop. A whole lot of the most fashionable models are waiting for you there - both tied and fastened with a zipper; short and long; in subdued colors and more juicy shades. We enjoy your shopping!
Look stunning this summer
Summer is coming fast. This is the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe and invest in good quality gladiator boots. These shoes are a classic that comes back time after time in a big way. Thanks to our styling tips, you will certainly have no problem combining them with the rest of your wardrobe. Good luck!