Gladiator sandals can be the star of your look

Do you know how to recognize a gladiator sandal? “With or without heels, with several straps that go up the legs at various heights, from the short pipe to over the knee. They were named that way because they look like the sandals that were used by gladiators”, explains image consultant Fê Bastos.

In ancient Rome, gladiator sandals were a sign of struggle and were always on the feet of men fighting in arenas. The inspiration remains, but the scenarios are different. Now, the gladiators took to the streets in the most different reinterpretations, with very different models and colors.

Even with its ancient origins, this sandal model is a good option to modernize and update the look. Bringing an extra weight to the look, sandals can be great complements to simpler outfits, making them more elaborate and charming. In addition, the straps are powerful allies to draw attention to the legs, which makes the gladiators have a sexy image.

Another positive point is comfort. It is possible to find models of gladiators quite comfortable, especially flats or with thicker heels. Due to the amount of straps, it is common for sandals to be very firm on the feet, which brings greater security even in the case of higher and thinner heels.

How to wear gladiator sandals

Check out tips to combine different models of shoes with the most varied looks and styles:

with denim shorts

As denim shorts are very basic pieces, gladiator sandals can be used as a focal point of the look, complementing and making any simpler outfit interesting. If you want to draw attention to them, bet on high-top gladiators.

“Wear it with shorts and a denim shirt for a more urban feel. Wear it with shorts, a coat and a floppy hat for a folk look in the style of music festivals”, suggests Fê Bastos.

with loose dresses

Gladiators carry a very sexy image. So, betting on the combination of these sandals with looser and more delicate dresses helps to create a balanced and relaxed look.

with skirts

Short skirts are great options to accompany the gladiator, as they show the legs and give more prominence to the shoes. If you want to bet on the gladiator with a midi skirt, choose a model in a nude tone, so as not to flatten the silhouette.

high-barreled gladiators

High-top models are the ones that stand out most in production, especially in strong and dark colors. “Show your legs and wear the high top gladiator with shorts, skirts and short dresses, so the sandal will be the focal point of the look”, advises Fê.

low-barreled gladiators

More discreet, low-top gladiators are great options to compose looks with more information or complement lighter looks. In addition, they are models that can accompany pants, skirts and long dresses.

Gladiators with jumping

“Gladiator sandals with high heels are extremely sexy”, emphasizes Fê Bastos. So, if you want to soften this image, combine it with looser dresses and full skirts. To bet on the sexy look, choose tighter shorts, dresses and skirts.

5 tips to make the most of your gladiator in the look

1. Harmonize the length of the sandal with the clothing

“The ideal thing is that the clothes are shorter and that between the hem of the pants, shorts or skirt there is a little piece of skin before the sandal. Another option would be to wear a ‘wide’ piece, with the length ending over the sandal”, explains the image consultant.

2. Choose models that don’t flatten your silhouette

If your impression is that you are flattened with the gladiator, there is a solution! “The straps of the gladiator sandal shorten the silhouette and give the illusion of thicker legs. To minimize this effect, look for gladiators with strips the color of the skin of your leg”, advises Fê Bastos.

3. Bet on accessories

“Gladiators can be combined with hats, sunglasses, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings and crossbody bags, fringes are also welcome. It is important that the gladiator, accessories and clothing tell the same story. Therefore, if the intention is a casual look, leave jewelry and sophisticated materials kept at home”, comments Fê.

4. Choose sophisticated party supplies

The image of gladiator sandals is more in line with casual productions. But, that doesn’t mean they need to be disregarded from more tidy parties and events. To adjust the look, bet on models in noble and sophisticated materials, with thin heels, more delicate straps and sparkles.

5. Emphasize the feet

As they are very flashy pieces, interesting looks can be created with very simple clothes and accessories. “Don’t weigh in on the production and call attention to your legs, letting the gladiator be the focal point of the look”, suggests Fê.

where to buy gladiators

Many brands already have their gladiator model – or several of them. It’s a great color chart, different pipe heights and different strip designs. So, finding a piece that matches your style and personality promises not to be a complicated task. In addition, the diversity of brands means that prices also vary a lot and it is possible to find a model that fits in your pocket.

Check out some options for gladiator models in our gallery!

Get inspired: looks with gladiator

To put an end to doubts about how to wear shoes, check out the photos of bloggers using gladiators and get inspired to adopt them in your look.