Gladiator sandals are fast emerging a favourite for fashionable menfolk this summer; experts discuss.
You’ve spotted them on yellowed pages, on the feet of Greek Gods, warriors and the ultra masculine men of history. Count Julius Caesar, Pythagoras and even some impressions of Jesus Christ! At some point, the gladiator sandals transcended gender barriers and even crossed over into the realm of women’s fashion — so much so that these sandals became a must-have in every girl’s summer wardrobe. But just when gladiators started becoming synonymous with women’s footwear trend, high fashion brands made men march in them on international ramps. They got as much acclaim as criticism.
Cut to 2012: gladiators are now a high street favourite and Mumbai’s fashionable men too seem to be taking notice of them. Shoe designer Payal Kothari of Veruschka, says, “I think these sandals look very trendy; there’s nothing wrong with wearing them. However, I must admit that gladiators are meant more for the fashion-conscious guys, as it’s become pretty synonymous with the metrosexual look.” She adds that one should keep the straps to minimum and go for raw-edged leather ones. “Wear them with beach attires, three-fourth shorts, only during summers.”
There’s indeed no doubt that gladiators lend a very casual look, but its universality lies in that very look. “The ancient art of crafting sandals with modern technique and vintage leather is what creates the appeal. They appear ragged and finished at the same time,” says Sahil Kejriwal, director of Estd 1977 that makes these sandals. “It is a recommended summer footwear option as it covers your feet while being carefully fashionable. They are usually worn on jeans and casual wear,” he adds.
Shoe designer Rohan Arora, who designed collections like Naya Daur and Kal Aaj Aur Kal, also feels that men are going experimental, going hand in hand with women in terms of fashion. “The gladiators look pretty cool in bright neon colours like saffron, pinks, reds, yellows, and oranges. The new twists to the gladiators are the straps going criss-cross and ones that come in dull khadi, the evergreen leather or chicken leg leather,” he elaborates.
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