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10 best gladiator sandals
Go Roman this summer and step out in style with some statement strappies
Whether you’re on the hunt for something new for beach holidays or a summer city break, gladiator sandals are a smart, practical way to update your summer wardrobe. We’ve scoured the high-street and beyond to find pairs that suit every style and budget. From classic flat tan leather glads to knee-highs, via fringing, metallics and wedges, there’s a way to embrace the trend.
1. Tasselled Leather Roman Sandals: £49.99, zara.com
Update your summer wardrobe with this tan leather pair with gold studs and some serious fringing. They lace up at the ankle, have a zip at the back and will toughen up a girly summer dress a treat.
2. Ancient Greek Sandals Ikaria Leather and Glitter Sandals: £150, mytheresa.com
Channel your inner Hermes with these Greek mythology-inspired sandals. The Ikaria is a bestseller for the Hellenic brand and has been updated with glitter. We love the wing detailing, including the buckles. They’re available in other colours and there’s a rubber version, too.
3. Jen Fisherman Flat Jelly Sandal: £8, boohoo.com
Relive the Nineties with these glad-inspired jelly sandals. The pastel pink is right on trend and they’re waterproof so you can take them rock-pooling or swimming in rocky seas with no worries Available in black, white and nude.
4. Nalda: £79.95, modainpelle.com
These silver leather gladiators are super-chic, but also really comfortable. They have a padded leather footbed and the white contrast sole gives them a sports luxe vibe. They come in tan, too.
5. Farva Gladiator Sandals: £40, asos.com
Add a splash of colour to your look with these poppy-red sandals. The flatform sole will give you a bit of a height advantage and the thicker straps add a modern twist to the gladiator trend.
6. Delphine Gladiator: £325, sophiawebster.com
If you want to invest in a designer pair, then these metallic woven sandals from celeb-favourite shoe shoe designer Sophia Webster are a cool choice. With a lace-up fastening instead of buckles and an open toe, they’re an unusual take on glads.
7. Renee Ice: £50, clarks.co.uk
You might have seen similar styles to this shiny gold pair on the high street, but these are comfier than most. The leather lining cushions your feet and the rubber sole means you have some grip for summer strolls. They also come in black and tan.
8. Violeta Gladiator Sandals: £98, anthropologie.eu
If you’re a fan of espadrilles, then you’ll love these Spanish-made, Seventies-inspired suede sandals. Navy makes a change from more common metallic, black and tan – but it’s still super-easy to wear.
9. Rocha by John Rocha Natural Leather Fringe Strap Sandals: £45, debenhams.com
John Rocha’s diffusion line for Debenhams has a range of on-trend, affordable footwear, With their catwalk-inspired low wedge, these natural leather lace-up sandals are our pick from the current collection.
10. Figtree Gladiator Sandals: £52, topshop.com
Knee-high gladiators are everywhere this summer, don’t be scared to get in on the act. This black mid-calf pair with a zip at the back are our favourites from the high street. They’re a great price for leather and you can adjust the fit with the laces. They’re available in tan and gold leather, too.
Verdict:
If you’re looking to invest in a designer pair, Sophia Webster is a name to watch in the shoe world. If you’re on a budget, then Clarks’ £50 gold leather sandals are our top pick. You could also join the jet-set with a pair of knee-high gladiators, and Topshop’s black leather numbers are a chic, affordable option compared with many on the market. If you want something out-of-the-ordinary, the glittery wings of the Ancient Greek Sandals are a fun choice.