THEAnd trends return cyclically, some more than others. This is the case of sandals with ankle laces, capable of combining charm of the ancient and present spirit. From the feet of the Greek-Roman fighters to those of modern trendsetterthe so -called “gladiators” have made it from the road, also coming to conquer the fashion panorama of the summer 2025.
Their strong point? Versatility: comfortable and chic at the same time, they are worn in a multitude of occasions. Just know how to choose the right models: low, minimal and discreet during the day, or embellished with decorative elements and jewel details for the evening. To enter safe step in the Olympus of fashion.
Gladiator sandals, a trend that has lasted for centuries
Born in ancient Rome As a combat footwear for gladiators, gladiators are the perfect example of how today’s fashion still draws on the past. Characterized by numerous leather laces that surround the foot and leg, they combine practicality and robustness. Just like then, when they responded to the needs of fighters. Similar models were also in Greeceused by soldiers and citizens, with simpler weaves that could climb to the calf: A design capable of anticipating the modern taste of centurieswhich – with some variation with fashionable proof – has not changed so much.
Sandals with ankle laces to spring-summer 2025 fashion shows
Today’s trends are surprisingly similar to those of the past. From Isabel Marant parade the Boho declination of gladiator sandalsin the calf and enriched by gipsy inspiration details: in original colors such as Bordeaux, the protagonist shoes of the season become the ideal element to complete Ethno-chic vacationer looks look.
From the Spring-Summer 2025 collection by Isabel Marant (Credits: Spotlight Launchmetrics).
From Ermanno ScervinoInstead, a more minimal and refined version parades. In intertwined leather, the snake -stressed sandals serpent find their perfect counterpart in the elegant double -breasted jacket with a tailoring cut, combined with shorts. Two decidedly different interpretations of the gladiator sandals, but both of great impact, from which to take inspiration for the next summer looks.
From the spring-summer 2025 collection by Ermanno Scervino (Credits: Spotlight Launchmetrics).
With high or low laces: the coolest sandals of the moment
On holiday and in the city, the gladiator sandals dominate the summer scene. The choice is among the high laceswhich go up to the knee in an irresistible game of weaves, and low lacesmore discreet. The models on the calfsensual and daring, are ideal after sunset, especially if chosen in metallic colors such as gold and silver: many brands, such as Aquazzura, who add jewel detailsto impress the evening outfits properly.
Leather sandals with laces to tie the ankle, weekend Max Mara.
Those who prefer a more basic aesthetic, however, can focus on Flat sandals with low lacesto tie just above the ankle e wear (also) during the day. Yes to leather and leather models, preferably in the neutral and versatile shades of black, brown and beige. In full antique mode Rome, such as those proposed by Weekend Max Mara.
How to combine gladiator sandals
Sandals with high laces are combined perfectly to short clothes, miniskirts and linen shortshighlighting the legs and optically slender the silhouette. For Emilio Pucci, in a drawing as intricate as glamorous, they accompany a black dress with asymmetrical cut, but nothing prevents you from wearing them too together with Fluid tunics And drapery clothesto recall the past contemporary.
From the spring-summer 2025 collection by Emilio Pucci (Credits: Spotlight Launchmetrics).
The low models, on the other hand, are more suitable for daytime looks. To be worn with cropped jeans, palace pants in light fabrics and maxi dresses with a boho charm, they create relaxed but well -kept combinations.
The more advice to keep in mind? Never completely cover the laces: after all, they are the onesthe detail that makes the difference.
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