Gladiator Sandals

Not only do I not hate these gladiator sandals, I actually really like them. I think what makes the difference is the thinner straps and the gold coiled detailing. Available in bark or gold, Nine West also offers a heeled sandal that is very similar called the "Resselini," which comes in brown, natural or dark natural.

For fans of traditional gladiator sandals, adding heels may ruin all the fun. But heels make the trend much more wearable, and help make all those straps seem a little less heavy. Available in black or brown, the mixture of glossy and matte finishes is a really nice touch as well.

It's a bit of a stretch calling these heels gladiator sandals, but that's how they're being categorized, and the Roman influence is definitely there. Maybe it only seems like a stretch to me because I like them so much. Available in blue, taupe, black or dark brown, these gladiators feature 3.5" heels and loads of sex appeal. The straps are on the heavy side and the heels are pretty hefty, so the shorter the skirt, the better your legs will look in these.

High heeled sandals with lots of skimpy straps and metallic leather uppers are almost always sexy -- even if they are gladiator sandals, and these stunners from Carlos Santana are among the sexiest I've seen. Even when the gladiator trend is dead and gone, these sandals will be turning heads, whether you wear them in old silver (shown here) or amaretto brown.

Skipping the t-straps, and drawing their gladiator inspiration instead from wrap-around ankle straps, it would be difficult not to feel like a warrior princess in these stiletto sandals from Luichiny. Offered in bronze or pewter, these shoes feature snake-embossed leather uppers, 4.5" heels and 5." platform soles.

The most traditional pair of gladiator sandals on the list, the "Jobilyn" comes in loads of colors and patterns, ranging from gold to silver, and orange to pink. While these are essentially the same gladiator sandals I've sworn off in the past, they at least stop short of running all the way up the calf, and the various colors and prints keep them interesting to me. I probably won't be buying a pair, but I don't hate them.

Despite the fact that this article is titled "Gladiator Sandals I Don't Hate," I'm going to go ahead and throw in a pair I actually do hate. Think of it as a bonus. I'm including these sandals because even though I don't like them, I know so many of you will adore them, and I want you to be happy. They're the ultra-tall gladiator sandals you've been searching for -- wear them well.