Zendaya Just Swapped Flip-Flops For the Divisive Heels Trend I Thought We Left in 2010
Over flip-flops? This is the forgotten boho sandals trend making a comeback right now.
If the season's favourite sleek, '90s-inspired flip-flops haven't been speaking to you, you're in luck. Whilst barely-there sandals have dominated for the past few summers, Zendaya has just made a convincing case for their very antithesis: the gladiator sandal trend. Stepping out ahead of a press event in New York today, the actor wore a knee-high pair of heeled gladiator sandals, reviving one of the most recognisable shoe trends of the late 2000s and early 2010s.
A world away from this season's minimalist flip-flops, gladiator sandals are defined by their network of straps that wrap around the foot, ankle and calf. Whilst the trend reached peak popularity during the boho era of the 2010s, its origins stretch much further back, taking inspiration from the protective footwear worn by ancient Roman gladiators.
Whilst Zendaya gave the nostalgic style a modern moment, pairing her knee-grazing shoes with a white minidress and long drop earrings, this summer shoe trend would also work well with longer-line dresses to play into the relaxed, boho aesthetic.
If you've been waiting for a sandal trend with a little more impact than the minimalist styles that have dominated in recent years, this might just be it. Read on to shop the best gladiator sandals below.
Shop Gladiator Sandals:
Whilst I love these in the taupe, they also come in three other shades.
Style these with a white minidress to get Zendaya's look.
Be quick! These are on their way to selling out.
The suede composition gives these such an elevated edge.
Shop these whilst they're on sale.
In a light shade of brown, these are easy to slot into a boho capsule wardrobe.
