Oh, we’re so back.
Zendaya-Inspired Gladiator Sandals
- Comfortable but Chic: Teva Midform Infinity Sandals, $75
- 2014-Inspired: Steve Madden Gladius Knee-High Sandals, $60 (Originally $119)
- Zendaya-Coded: Azalea Wang Heeled Snake Gladiator Boots, $109
- Selling Quickly: Crocs Miami Ankle Strap Sandals, $50
- Rare Sale: Sam Edelman Ellina Ankle Strap Sandals, $60 (Originally $100)
Picture this: The year is 2015. You just left the high school parking lot for summer vacation, and all the cool girls are wearing knee-high gladiator sandals. Well, what’s old is new again (2016 is back, after all.), and the coolest celeb of them all just declared that the polarizing style is back. Earlier this week, Zendaya stepped out to promote her new film The Odyssey, and as the queen and inventor of method dressing, she wowed in the most Grecian-inspired look that included lace-up heeled boots.
She looked like a goddess in a plunging ethereal Alberta Ferretti Spring 2008 minidress with silver chain detailing, a floaty skirt, and a Roman-inspired belted midsection. What caught my eye—and gave me a heavy sense of déjà vu—though, were the strappy metallic silver gladiator heels. The knee-high sandal-boot hybrid featured gunpowder-colored leather loops that crawled up her leg and tied at the top. Her exact pair are archival Sophia Webster, but I found lookalikes and more practical everyday versions at Zappos, Nordstrom, Amazon, and more, all under $200.
Steve Madden Gladius Knee-High Sandals
When I found this Steve Madden pair, the nostalgia hit me like a ton of bricks. I’m pretty sure my friend owned sandals that were nearly identical to this black studded style. The shoe is currently 50 percent and had a shopper saying, “Steve Madden did it again.”
Teva Midform Infinity Sandals
If you’re looking to participate in the trend without inflicting discomfort and blisters upon your feet, the Teva Infinity Sandals will provide plenty of support while also looking extremely cool. The style has a molded ethylene and vinyl acetate midsole, heel cupping, and an arch cookie for maximum comfort. A fan said they are “very cushiony with excellent arch support” and can be worn “for miles and miles.”
Dream Pairs Lace-Up Gladiator Sandals
You can’t beat the price on this elevated style from fan-favorite Amazon brand Dream Pairs. They’re just $31 but look so much more expensive. In fact, one customer raved that the “comfortable” and “true to size” shoes are a lookalike for a much pricier designer style. “Ten out of 10 no notes,” they added.
Free People Driftwood Tall Gladiator Sandals
I’m obsessed with these tall Driftwood sandals from Free People, because what do you mean I could wear these straight from the Colosseum to brunch, la dolce vita style?! In all seriousness, the sandals are so cool-girl coded with their buckle straps and suede upper. I would pair these with shorts or a boho mididress.
Mango Ankle Wrap Sandals
To take a more pared-down approach to the trend, try these Mango Ankle Wrap Sandals. The adjustable buckle makes these shoes incredibly versatile: You could wear the straps around your ankle or farther up your leg. The sleek thin straps and sole would look so chic with a flowy maxidress.
Azalea Wang Heeled Snake Gladiator Boots
Go big or go home, am I right? If you want to copy Zendaya’s look, might I suggest this Azalea Wang Snake Gladiator Boots with a chiffon or poplin mini. The 4-inch heels are sure to make a statement at your next girls’ night out…or toga party. Shoppers say the style runs big, so be sure to size down.
Shop more gladiator sandals that even Homer himself would approve of at Amazon, Nordstrom, and Old Navy.
Crocs Miami Ankle Strap Sandals | Sam Edelman Ellina Ankle Sandals |
Old Navy Toe Strap Sandals | Ugg GoldenGaze Embossed Ankle Wrap Sandals |
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