Few designers do a knee-high gladiator sandal quite like Valentino. And few celebrities model the trend (or any trend, for that matter), quite like Zendaya.
The Euphoria star is the face of the iconic fashion house’s latest campaign. In a photo she shared on Instagram from the shoot, the resurgence of early 2000s fashion is clearer than ever. She is seen wearing two early aughts favorites: A cutout, red, mini dress and flat, brown, gladiator sandals that criss-cross up her leg, from ankle to knee.
But Valentino isn’t the only fashion house getting in on the action. Designers like Altuzarra, Etro, Dior, and more all showed a version of the knee-high sandal on their Spring 2022 runways. Now that the weather is finally inching toward sandal season— there’s no doubt you’re about to see this comeback trend just about everywhere.
You don’t have to totally splurge to get in on the look, either. Dressing up your legs, and adding a little something extra to off-duty denim shorts or cocktail minis, is doable at every price point.
Ahead, find the best knee-high gladiator sandals to channel your inner warrior. Or, perhaps, just your inner Zendaya. Either one sound pretty great.
In classic flat suede, flatform styles, chunky heels, and more, you’ll be ready for the weather to turn with these seasonal must-haves.
Bustle Shop is Bustle’s shoppable guide to editor-approved buys in fashion, beauty, wellness, and lifestyle. We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.
Go classic with a one-strap sandal with laces that tie all the way up to your knee.
Channel your inner ’90s baby with these kitten-heel gladiator sandals in a neutral white hue.
Keep it light with a simple style that weaves it’s way up your leg, straight from your toes.
For a little lift, consider a style with a comfortable, chunky heel.
For a go-anywhere style, shop these tan slip-on sandals with self-tie straps.
This bone-hued beauty will go with everything. (And that under-$50 price tag certainly sweetens the deal.)
The multi-hued natural raffia straps add unexpected texture and a slightly dressier vibe to the silhouette.
Bustle Shop brings you the editor-approved buys we can’t get enough of and think you’ll adore, too. Best of all, you can shop all of the products above directly on this page without visiting multiple retailers. Simply click on an item to learn more, choose your size or favorite color (if applicable), and then hit “add to cart.” When you’re done, you can click over to your cart in the top right corner of your screen to purchase all your stellar selects at once. How easy is that?
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