We Just Found the New Gladiator Sandal of 2017

By Sarah Wasilak
Harper's Bazaar | Matthieu Salvaing
Every editorial product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn commission.

I was casually flipping through an issue of Harper's Bazaar when I saw them sitting pretty on model Alicia Rountree's feet: the sandals I would wear all Summer. "Mmm, I would sleep in those," I mused, as I located the shopping page at the end of the magazine and grabbed my phone to look up my new shoe obsession. Sure enough, these beautiful, two-toned leather and rope heels are a mixed-material masterpiece up close.

Not only that, but they're in line with a new trend: a sandal with a gladiator-like upper that stops at the ankle rather than extending to the shin or the knee. Instead, a chunky braided rope wraps around the leg in contrast. The resulting look is more sporty than boho-chic, but when you opt for a style in a neutral color, these new shoes can be worn with everything from flowy maxi dresses to denim and a breezy Summer blouse. Ahead, meet your new favorite sandals.

Harper's Bazaar | Matthieu Salvaing

Alicia Rountree wearing a complete Etro look in her feature for Harper's Bazaar.

Invest in the original Etro Rope-Trimmed Leather Sandals - Tan ($1,075).

Or opt for a starker contrast with the darker Etro 105mm Rope & Leather Bi Color Sandals ($1,140).

See by Chloe Edna Suede Lace-Up Sandals ($355) are one of the most similar styles on the market right now.

Be a little playful in the Pierre Hardy panel rope tie sandals ($685).

Opt for flats and standout tassel with Isabel Marant's Astrid tasseled leather-trimmed suede sandals ($695).

If you love a platform, try Frye's Neutral Dahlia Rope Wedge ($498).

Stripes make Max Mara's Austin wedge sandals ($595) picturesque for Summer.

An espadrille heel lends a softer appeal to the Soludos Gladiator Platform Wedge Sandal ($129).

You'll walk right into Fall in the suede Whistles Molino Rope Suede Wedge Sandal ($267).

The Joshua Sanders rope sailor sliders ($230) are poolside-friendly.

Go sailor-chic in the Álvaro Aurora rope and leather sandals ($540).