Key Takeaways
- Gladiator sandals are trending again, coming back into style this year alongside other fashion-meets-function shoes like fisherman sandals and flip-flops.
- You’ll find several modern takes on gladiator sandals in 2025, including minimalist and indie sleaze-inspired options.
As a true “zillennial,” an unforgettable style hallmark of my coming-of-age was Coachella in the mid-2010s. I didn’t go, but the images of flower crowns and bohemian style were all over my Instagram and Pinterest feeds, and my university even had a music festival-themed welcome week to tap into the hype. Of course, one of the most iconic footwear styles of the era—both in the desert and on the streets—was the gladiator sandal. Maximalist and mildly divisive, this strappy style is back for more, just a decade later, with several modern takes shifting our perspective on the evocative shoe. Read on to learn all about the gladiator sandal revival, from a trip down memory lane to how to style it in 2025.
The History of the Gladiator Sandal
Gladiator sandals have been around since ancient civilizations, between 1000 and 700 BCE. The Greeks developed the shoe as some of the first-ever footwear, tying basic leather soles to the feet using strappy leather cords. For them, the introduction of shoes to society started as offering symbolic protection from the underworld, though the practice would catch on eventually for functional reasons as well. The design was simple overall, though the embellishment was elaborate.
Romans further developed the style with leather straps, stronger soles, and a leather upper piece, creating a version much closer to the gladiator sandals we know today. The sandals were practical for fighters and soldiers, but they also became popular among elites, who would commission custom designs featuring embellishments that weren’t available to the general public.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, gladiator sandals disappeared for many centuries, but they reemerged as a 1960s fashion trend alongside the hippie movement. Since then, they’ve gone in and out of style, with arguably their most popular modern era having lasted from the 2000s to mid-2010s. Just as in the ’60s, the shoes carried a free-spirited energy, though elements like metallic studs also act as nods to the footwear’s namesake.
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As festival-goers and bohemian street style stars adopted gladiator sandals, they earned a reputation as a summery, conversation-starting design—but no one’s ever forgotten the shoes’ roots. The similarity of today’s styles to those of ancient times means that they will always be evocative of Greek and Roman cultures, making them an ideal choice for a Mediterranean vacation or any elevated warm-weather style.
The Trend in 2025
Over the past few summers, practical styles like fisherman sandals, flip flops, and Birkenstocks have come to the forefront of sandal trends. Given their functionality, gladiator sandals—which we’ve seen so far on the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Demi Moore, and Tyla—fit right into that. But their ultra-strappy design also offers a statement-making counterbalance as fashion once again swings towards maximalism.
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As you might expect, today’s version of the gladiator sandal spans both minimalist and head-turning designs, many of which integrate adjacent trends. On the spring 2025 runways, Isabel Marant leaned into the shoe’s boho reputation with a suede, stringy style, Emilio Pucci went for artful intricacy, and Ludovic de Saint Sernin’s tall leather style for Jean Paul Gaultier offered an edgy take on the classic silhouette. Brands like Jenni Kayne and Khaite have fresh takes for elevated minimalists, while Jeffrey Campbell’s embellishments are indie sleaze-approved.
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Gladiator sandals’ well-recognized Greek and Roman roots have also boosted their popularity as many romanticize the idea of a “Euro summer.” Whether for actually traveling or simply bringing a bit of escapism to everyday life, many of the moment’s top trends—from the Amalfi aesthetic to sculptural handbags—belong in a picturesque coastal setting. A pair of well-structured, strappy sandals is great for galavanting around historic seaside towns, but they also bring a breath of fresh air to summer brunches, nights out, and even to the office when styled smartly.
@ancientgreeksandals / Instagram
Gladiator sandals come in a wider range of colors, materials, and designs than before, allowing the design to break free from any stereotypes while still remaining true to its origins. Today, this style can take on a range of aesthetics to satisfy a general appetite for elevated strappy silhouettes, all while maintaining the practicality that made it a staple.
How to Style
Modern gladiator sandals add a chic, bohemian touch to any look. Even the most basic pair will elevate your go-to summer ensembles, like denim shorts and a tee or a breezy linen sundress. You also might consider balancing the shoe’s structure with a carefree lacy midi or boho maxi skirt.
Dr. Martens
The shoes are also ideal for leaning into vacation-approved resort luxe style. Try styling a metallic finish in tandem with an of-the-moment caftan for a simple outfit formula that will make you feel like you belong on The White Lotus. Alternatively, throw some gladiators on with your swimsuit and an elevated cover-up for main character energy while you roam the pool deck.
As summer turns to fall but the heat lingers, a tall pair of black gladiators can be a weather-appropriate alternative to your favorite knee-high boots. You’ll look both breezy and edgy when styling these with your favorite LBD, tailored leather shorts, and/or a statement handbag.
Modern Gladiator Sandals to Shop
You’re only one pair of shoes away from becoming a summer footwear champion. Below, find a few picks that offer a taste of the 2025-approved ways to work gladiator sandals back into your wardrobe.
