We have all heard the expression, “When in Rome, do as the Romans” at one point or another in our lives. Back in the Roman era, fashion was not something that was important like it is today. But come a full circle and modern day fashion forward girls are taking styling tips from the heroes of the Roman era, the gladiators.

Gladiator styles shoes are everywhere. I purchased a pair of gladiator sandals after seeing them earlier this summer, thinking they were so fresh and different. Now I cannot go anywhere in Southern California, whether it be day or night, without seeing some form of the gladiator inspired footwear. More often than not you will see them in sandal form, and being from California, where we live in flip flops and flats, these are a great new way to dress up your flips. Personally, I can’t go out of the house in regular heals, or in regular shoes for that matter, they just are not a look that goes along with the kind of life I live. I mean, being a beach girl - my feet have to breathe! I love seeing that more and more sandals are getting some love from the fashion community and they are no longer just an accessory you wear to the beach and around the house. They can actually be your going-out shoes. Even more impressive is seeing how this trend fits right along into the “hipster look” of bohemian chic meets indy rocker that seems to be establishing quite a presence.

Personally I’m digging how this new roman goddess-like shoe is making its way into the night life. It is not only a fun way to dress up your day, but a great way to add some flair to your casual or dressy look once you hit the town. It is a heavy looking shoe that has made its way from the runway to the beach boardwalk, and I am all for them. They are sexy and fierce without being over the top. Being pretty fashion forward myself, I cannot wait to see how these new strappy goddess feet candy will evolve as we move into fall here in California. Before the fur lined boots make their way out of the back of the closet, these flirty sandals give any look the perfect complement.

This movement away from the bright, loud colors and patterns of spring is almost refreshing to have after having neon’s and animal skin patterns in your face colors this summer. I see things cleaning up and simplifying, having a more sophisticated look as we move forward into the year. Fall brings us more neutral colors anyway, but with so many influences from so many different eras, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and even ancient eras, it will be interesting to see what kind of culture clash look we will see out there. Like anything it’s a trend and who knows how long it will last… but if it’s good enough for the ancient heroes of the Roman Empire, its good enough for me.

Tags: Fashion, Shoes