Though gladiator shoes have long been a staple of outdoor music festivals and casual summer dressing, this season designers are elevating the trend to new heights (quite literally) with an assortment of sleek, knee-grazing styles. Paired with everything from tailored dresses to barely-there skirts, these bondage-influenced sandals and heels took center stage on the spring runways, bringing new meaning to the term “statement shoes.” While the look may be intimidating for everyday scenarios, we’re here to prove that when styled with the right pieces, the outcome is not only polished and sophisticated, but also appropriate for a slew of occasions too.
On The Runways
?At Altuzarra, extreme leather cage shoes--namely the Dark Brown Knee High Gladiator Boots ($2715)--were a striking accompaniment to the designer’s workwear-inspired pieces, giving tailored looks, like the Nina Sleeveless Shirt Day Dress with White Deco Print Skirt ($1495) a fetishistic finish. Meanwhile, Acne Studio’s chunky, to-the-knee Aurelia High Sandals ($1150, the brand’s Salma High Sandals are a similar style) in White served as the perfect contrast to the spring collection’s more feminine Valerie Top ($1350) and skirt with center slit.
Our Look
?For a gladiator-centric look that’s chic and a bit more formal, tailored pieces and minimal accessories are key. Grab Stuart Weitzman’s Gladiator Sandals ($398), which have a comfortable, low heel and hit just below the knee. To create a flattering, streamlined silhouette on top, tuck Steven Alan’s Crossover Shirt ($178) into Maje’s Tweed Mini Skirt ($260). (Note: the collared shirt helps balance the leggy skirt-and-sandal combo, keeping your look refined and pulled-together.) Make sure your gladiators are the accessory focal point of your outfit by picking a bag that’s simple in design and understated in colour, like Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent’s Coachella Cross Body Bag ($99), and slipping on a few of Fay Andrada’s Suippo Bracelets ($115) in Brass for a luxe touch. The resulting look will take you from Saturday afternoon errands to an outdoor dinner with friends.
-
Every Chic Person I Know Is Setting Aside Chunky Earrings for This Timeless TrendWhen Kendall, Hailey, and Jasmine all make the switch, you know you better pay attention.
-
Every Major Handbag Trend Fashion People Will Be Wearing Come Spring 2026From slightly askew purses to single strap silhouettes.
-
Bye for Now, Beanies—This Is the New Winter Hat Trend All the Cool Girls Are WearingJust ask Olivia Rodrigo.
-
When L.A. Girls Wear Leggings or Sweatpants, They Pair Them With Jennifer Lawrence's $35 SlidesAffordable and so versatile.
-
You Want a Chic Handbag for Under $500? Say Less—I Love These 35 StylesTo gift or keep for yourself? The choice is yours.
-
This Simple Accessory Is Hyperwearable, Practical, and Chic—Yes, the Fashion Crowd Is Into ItNineties minimalism and Y2K aesthetics come for your eyes.
-
27 Cozy Fall Accessories I'd Wear to All the Chicest Establishments in NYCEnhance your outfit with these.
-
In London and Lisbon, Fashion People Are Stirring the Pot by Wearing These Anti-Fall ShoesIt's a controversial choice.
