Gladiator

If there is one shoe that defines this season, the gladiator sandal is it. While adult trends do not always translate well for tots, the gladiator's flat sole and ankle strap make it great for lil one's looking to steal some of mama's style while walking this Summer.

Simple: The Gymboree Sparkle Gladiator Sandal mimics the latest mommy trend for only $21 by using faux leather straps and big sparkles.
Swank: For more than three times the price, the $65 Primigi Nikita uses real leather and studs on its version of the fashionable footwear.
Which do you prefer?

This Marciano Analisa Metallic Gladiator Sandal ($200) is the closest we're going to get to looking like Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. It's daring, in your face, and designed for the boldest gals out there. It's currently not sold online, but fret not; find a Marciano store near you and get going.

To prevent looking like a fashion freak, make sure the rest of your outfit is simple and chic. I'm talking an all-black ensemble and simple jewels. Let the shoe do all the talking, er shouting . . . it sure has lots to say!

You all know by now that I am a huge fan of gladiator sandals, even though my friends say I look like Hercules when I wear them. Whatever. These Lanvin Gladiator Sandals, $575, to me, are one of the best kinds out there. Worn with a pair of itty-bitty denim shorts and a simple white tee, they would look dazzling. If they're a bit out of your league, you'll be excited for the look for less...I sure was!


To see the less expensive version, read more

We all love things that others love to hate, whether it's a Counting Crows CD you can't get rid of or your "Degrassi Junior High" boxed set. Now I'm giving you a chance to explain yourselves in a new feature called Defend This.

In honor of the fast-approaching 2007 Oscars, I'm devoting this week's Defend This to a recent Best Picture winner that I find baffling: Ridley Scott's Gladiator. Not only did this movie take the top prize at the 2001 Oscars, but Russell Crowe also won Best Actor, beating out Ed Harris for Pollock and Javier Bardem in Before Night Falls. More tragically, what was basically a mediocre action movie set in ancient Rome beat out the far worthier Traffic and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

Now, I know many of you are probably saying to yourselves, "Hey, I liked Gladiator!" Great! But can you justify its winning a Best Picture Oscar? If so, tell me below. Now, on your marks, get set, defend!