In the wake of Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, the fashion trend cycle is shifting towards the Grecian look.
Instead of billowing chitons and armoured hardware, it appears that gladiator shoes are taking on that task.
During the press tour, Zendaya, who plays Athena, traded her staple Christian Louboutin So Kate for archival knee-high gladiator sandals that accentuated her slender legs well.
Here, she is seen red-carpet ready with a heeled version, but the shoes are traditionally worn flat.
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These shoes have a rich history. When they were first created, the gladiators were designed around the functional needs of a soldier.
The leather straps were arranged in such a way that they offer both protection and ventilation, keeping the comfort level high without sacrificing safety too much.
On top of that, the wrap-around style secures the shoes to their wearer, making it the ideal choice for long marches or even combat situations.
It was last trending in 2016 and is signalling its grand return by making a major comeback, as it has recently become a favourite amongst A-list celebrities.
Jessica Chastain also wore a similar style on television. While she was promoting the series The Savant, Chastain paired a chic Gucci number with an ornate pair of black gladiators. Here, the shoes were the outfit.
Earlier this year at the Met Gala, Serena Williams made a scene-stealing show of her outfit.
The tennis champion had on a glamorous silver Marc Jacobs gown, and her stylist paired it with a gorgeous golden wrap-around gladiators that brought much drama to the ensemble.
These shoes are not only made for the red carpet; there are ways, of course, to adapt the cut to more casual settings.
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For starters, you may consider a lower-cut pair instead of the dramatic knee-highs worn by these stars.
For example, Michelle Obama was spotted with a pair of gladiator flats as she attended the opening of the Barack Obama Presidential Centre in Chicago.
In this case, the gladiators are worn for maximum comfort and utility, while also adding a touch of her personal style without going over the top.
Though they might appear elaborate at first glance, gladiators can be quite versatile. They elevate even the simplest of outfits, and pair incredibly well with skirts, pants and dresses.
In most cases, let the shoes do the talking.
The rest of the look can remain restrained, and that should create a balanced pairing.
To really drive the Grecian feel, consider throwing on some accessories that feature motifs from that particular era. Upper arm cuffs, coin necklaces, and drop earrings are the perfect pieces to have on hand.
