What: Becica tall gladiator sandals by HIBOU

Where: Little Burgundy (www.littleburgundyshoes.com/ )

Price Tag: $90

Why: Every few years, gladiator sandals come back with a vengeance, and many top designers (Alexander Wang, Proenza Scholler, Versace) showcased the sandals in their SS’13 runway presentations. Love them or hate them, there is no denying that they make a major statement, and when styled right, they look really cool. I love these knee-high ones by HIBOU—they are simple and feminine, they aren’t covered in fringe and grommets like many others are, and the straps are curvy rather than cagelike, making them look altogether softer. For a perfect warm-weather kit, wear them with a floral-print frock, a denim vest, and a floppy sun hat, or style them with a snug black sheath and an envelope clutch for your next sexy dinner date.