I have never been big on the gladiator style, but that’s because it was never done right (too many straps! Trendy! Sloppy!). Until now. Givenchy’s sandal still has that eighties’ vibe of almost-excessive woven leather, but this is polished and updated for the new century. A thick band of glossy leather through the woven suede straps makes for a keen juxtaposition that any gladiator-inspired shoe needs to look smart, not slovenly. Add that large strap to a closed heel, and you have a substantial sandal that still doesn’t overwhelm the foot. Just to reinforce the fact this treads on modern ground, buckled, wrap-around ankle straps maintain a rocker vibe that’s got no choice to be anything but cool.
Then there’s the refined peep-toe. I appreciate this touch because rather than caging the toes in – leaving the big toe with room to try to escape and jut out (it’s a form of “scraggle toe” and there’s nothing worse!) – it tapers your foot and keeps your toes in elegant confinement. And perhaps most importantly, the wedge: a perfect balance for a casually strapped sandal. Designed to both cover and bare your foot, Givenchy has produced a gladiator for those who always fought against it and a shoe for all seasons. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $1,100.
Pair with: Transition these into the cooler months with a fuzzy-frayed sweater in a pale hue. Helmut Lang’s dirty-white angora pullover is semi-sheer with a cropped front and elongated back. On ShopBop for $460.
