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Gladiator sandals are a perennial favorite, but many find the shoes to be unflattering. With flat shoes and straps that wrap around the foot — and sometimes up to the leg — gladiator sandals can make your feet look bigger and your legs look shorter. Thus, it’s important to consider your height when choosing a pair of shoes.
Picking the right pair for your body type: If you’re on the shorter side or have thicker calves, try to find a pair of gladiator sandals with ankle straps, or go for a pair with shorter, thinner straps. Stay away from wide-strapped shoes, and consider purchasing heeled sandals if you feel comfortable walking in a higher shoe. Women with long legs and thin calves may want to try mid-calf or knee-high styles, which make a bigger statement.
How to style your gladiators: Gladiator sandals work great with summery dresses, and a heeled pair can be the perfect choice for taking your sundress from day to night. Ankle-strap gladiators can be fun alternatives to flip-flops or other casual sandals, and they team well with a wide variety of warm weather looks, from a maxi dress to boyfriend jeans and a T-shirt. Avoid wearing your sandals over pants.
While summer sandals can often be expensive, Amazon has a slew of reasonably priced gladiators on the cheap. Shop nine of our favorites here, with prices starting at just $24.
Onlymaker Women’s Gladiator Sandals
With a sensual 4.7-inch stiletto heel, these shoes are meant for a night out. The heels feature thin straps, which makes them flattering on a wide range of body types.
Steve Madden Women’s Delmar Sandals
These adorable Steve Madden sandals feature a flat sole with chunky black straps and a suede-like upper.
Dr. Martens Women’s Adaira Sandal
Made of cowhide and full-grain leather, these Dr. Martens sandals have a ridged outsole similar to the brand’s famous work boots.
Dream Pairs Women’s Open-Toe Sandals
For just $24, grab these Dream Pairs sandals, which come in shades like gold, red and white. They feature an easy to walk in 1-inch heel.
Fergalicious Women’s Zaille Gladiator Sandals
With braided detailing and a flat sole, these Feraglicious sandals are visually interesting and designed with comfort in mind.
Sam Edelman Women’s Gilda Flat Sandals
Coming in a range of colors and materials, these Sam Edelman sandals provide a fashion-forward update to a classic gladiator silhouette.
Vince Camuto Women’s Shandon Wedge Sandal
These embellished Vince Camuto sandals feature lace-up detailing and straps going up to the halfway up the calf.
Rockport Women’s Briah Gladiator Sandal
These wedge sandals are more comfortable than the typical heel, with a memory foam insole.
Chinese Laundry Women’s Monroe Heeled Sandal
With a low block heel, these sandals are perfect for wearing to work or for a summer night.
All products featured have been independently selected and curated by our editorial team. If you buy something through the links included on our site, FN may earn a commission.
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