For that 'classic' look

Sandals and shoes are an integral part of a person’s wardrobe and in a way complete the look. In recent times, the market has been flush with stylish footwear, with even the sporty trainers and the must-have kolhapuris, flip-flops, floaters and casual slip-ons acquiring a classic designer edge. A recent fad that has caught the imagination are -Roman-style shoes and sandals.  The very-much-in-fashion gladiator sandals which used to be a popular accessory for many years now, have acquired cult status and not without reason.  It is one footwear which has a rich history behind it, with the inimitable Romans playing an active part in defining our fashion.

The gladiator sandals were the preferred footwear of not just the gladiators who fought and overwhelmed their opponents in the arena but also the Roman soldiers  who marched in perfect unison to the battlefield.  And now, gladiator sandals make a chic fashion statement when teamed up with dresses, skirts and stylish trousers etc. Historically, the gladiator sandals came in flat soles and thin leather straps, meant to be tightened and tied to the foot and the calves, but, now, they’ve undergone a transformation and are available in all sorts of materials, styles, colours and even in
high heels.

The best part about gladiator sandals is that they are very comfortable. One can wear them all day long and being open-toed and strappy they leave the feet free and comfortable and are perfect for places that have warmer climates. No chance of ‘stinky feet’ here!

Designer Swati Mehrotra of Swati Modo brand, shared some interesting titbits about gladiator shoes. “Roman-styled shoes have always captured the imagination of fashion-conscious people. They are made from one piece of leather and then cut according to various styles. Extra layers of leather are also added to the sole area which are held together by iron hobnails. This gives increased strength and wearability with better grip on wet ground.”

Roman-styled shoes can be found in many styles, from open slippers with bundle of tie-ups, flats, heels or wedges, the options are endless depending on what one wants to team them up with.

According to Swati, “Shirt dresses, jeans, baggy pajamas, capris, jumpsuits, shorts – all go well with these shoes. One can also wear medium to knee-length gladiator sandals with short dresses, especially which are above the knee. For evening wear, go for metallic gladiator sandals for an instant upgrade in style.”

The most common material used to make Roman-styled sandals or shoes is leather. To give it a different look, leather with a little rugged finish can be ideal for outings but one can also experiment with denim fabric, neon colours or printed
fabrics too.