Style Inspiration: Lace-up Gladiator Sandals

THE HERO PIECE OF THE SEASON is undoubtedly the lace-up gladiator sandal. Perhaps it is due to the simultaneous empowerment that comes with wearing a piece of clothing adapted from the Roman gladiators, and the femininity provided by the delicate laces that tie the sandals up; the muted pastel hues of the designs, or the soft suede they are made of. Maybe, it is their magical effect of elongating the legs and acting as statement pieces when worn with delicate little lace white dresses or minimalistic A-line crepe skirts.
Chloé and Valentino were only two of the designers who made the sandal the key piece in their SS15 collections…while Chloé’s sandals were more structured and empowering in their reminiscence of the armour worn by the Romans, at Valentino they alluded to lace ribbons in one’s hair, or perhaps mythological Greek goddesses and nymphs who tied up thin leather straps around their legs, pairing it with loose gowns and tunics. HOW TO WEAR IT: High hemlines paired with gladiator sandals will streamline the leg, whether it be suede high-waisted shorts, dreamy silk-georgette gowns, or A-line mini dresses. However don’t be fooled by the boho-chic looks that accompany sandals on the runway, for they work just as well with minimal 90s pieces, chic gold jewellery and mirrored sunglasses. —Victoria