the style observer is about putting it all together

observations on Francisco

Our 3 favorite ways to wear gladiator sandals

April 29th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ $$ $$$ Anya Hindmarch Cynthia Vincent Diane Von Furstenberg Francisco French Connection L.A.M.B. MARC by Marc Jacobs Tory Burch accessories bracelets clothing dresses handbags jewelry necklaces pants shoes



Gladiator sandals are one of the biggest trends of the season. Last month’s post on the Gladiator ignited a firestorm of questions: How do I wear them? We’ve put together three of our favorite looks to help you out.

Gladiator look 1

  • MARC by Marc Jacobs Dr. Q Hillier Hobo @ Bloomingdales
  • Striped Danni Tunic @ C&C California
  • Francisco High Leg Sandal @ Topshop


  • The first look has a tall gladiator paired with a summer cotton dress. The key to this look, is to keep the dress flowy and unconstructed. The cut of the dress will balance out the tall gladiator sandal, making your legs look slim. A big hobo bag completes the look beautifully.


    Gladiator look 2

  • Diane Von Furstenberg Alcamo silk top @ Net-a-Porter
  • Diane Von Furstenberg ‘Jonah’ shorts @ Nordstrom
  • Accessories & Beyond gold braided cuff @ Fragments
  • Tory Burch North/South tote @ Bloomingdales
  • Cynthia Vincent ‘Dinah” tobacco sandal


  • The second look has a short gladiator paired with shorts, a billowy top, bangles, and a textured tote. The key to this look is to lean toward the bohemian, not preppy. It should look relaxed and sophisticated. It translates into a perfect day to evening summer look.


    Gladiator look 3

  • Anya Hindmarch mirror straw tote @ Vivre
  • French Connection ‘Betty Block’ jersey dress @ Nordstrom
  • Twelve by Twelve charm necklace @ Forever 21
  • L.A.M.B. ‘Gina’ metallic gladiator platform sandal @ Shopbop


  • The third look is a more dressed up version of the gladiator sandal. Again, the dress is free flowing which helps to balance the bulk of the shoe. The gladiator we chose is metallic, and reflects beautifully as opposed to drag the outfit down. We paired the outfit with a linen bag with gold accents, to tie it all together. The dress becomes the focus, with very fashion forward accessories that don’t take over the outfit.

    We hope some of these looks inspire some of your own creations. Have fun with it, and relax into a pair of gladiator sandals this season.