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Gladiator SandalsAnkle-centric gladiator sandals go glam for summer 2010by Kristine Bautista on Jul 22, 2010THE NEWEST SHOE on the rise is having an identity crisis. It can’t decide whether it’s a sandal, a ballerina flat or a boot. Be it a slip-on with a casual suede covering, or a strappy high heel, one thing is certain: the gladiator sandal is back for another summer, and this time with more bells and whistles than ever. The latest street-chic accessory, ankle-covering shoes, couldn’t have come at a better time for the ever-controversial Lindsay Lohan. The tabloid favorite has been seen sauntering around the L.A. party scene donning a number of pairs that conveniently conceal her ankle Scram bracelet—that is, before she finally got sent to the slammer. Stars like Jessica Simpson, Whitney Port and Selena Gomez and have also been seen cavorting around in cuffed shoes that, when done properly, can trim and elegantly lengthen the leg. On a local level, the shoe is currently getting a lot of play around the downtown San Jose nightlife scene. It has also reached the high-fashion-conscious crowd at Santana Row, where women are emphatically pairing the shoes with a short dresses and skirts for their glamour struts. An advantage of the ankle-cuff trend is that it puts emphasis on one’s ankles, a feature that (besides the wrists) tends to be the skinniest part of one’s body. Looser, scrunched cuffs work especially well at slimming the leg, by creating the effect of space between the cuff and ankle. Be vigilant, however, for cuffs also do some considerable shortening. As such, it’s necessary when touting this trend to show a little more leg. Above the knee shorts, skirts and rompers will do, and with some experimentation, even shear leggings. Even if one doesn’t have gams like Heidi Klum, however, there is a way to combat the cuff’s leg shortening effect. Try opting for the high-heeled types that instantly lengthen. Another trick is to color-match the shoe with the color of one’s leg. This does not mean that one has to go completely nude, but rather choose a color that reduces the contrast between the shoe and leg. This gives the feel that the shoe is an extension rather than a loud accessory. Local shoe merchants have been cognizant of this trend for months now. Bakers has its own versions, from flats with hood-like coverings near the ankle to heels with thinner ankle wrap-arounds that are reminiscent of the T-back shoes of last season. Aldo and Steve Madden have finessed them even more, with draped silhouettes that tie up, button, zip and buckle. Even Payless Shoesource is keeping in step with a cuffed, glossy, crocodile print heel that comes in black or red. Zappos.com and Shoebuy.com are also worth a look as both offer styles from designer to basic, and many at sale prices. The ankle-cuffed shoe is one to experiment with. Too extreme of a style can find the shoe wearing the person, and not vice versa. But with a little experimentation and confidence, one can ace a look that will last well into next September. Bakers Shoes Valley Fair Mall, Santa Clara by Kristine Bautista on Jul 22, 2010 |
 TARSUS TOPPERS: Ankle-covering sandals are hot this season. |
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