With braids and straps galore, this is a lot of sandal. The khaki-colored mix of textures (pebbled and smooth) and layered leather is an attention-grabber but I’m still trying to figure out what’s going on with all those straps. Wang has done a lot of open-toe boot and sandal-boot fusions; this is a more traditional direction for him, but that’s not to say this is a traditional sandal. While the look is somewhat military-inspired – a fading trend that I never care for in the first place – it’s not so blatant that I can’t see past it. With a slim wedge to add just enough height, this is a way better alternative to gladiator sandals, a style I got over back in 1986 when I was fifteen. (Go ahead, do the math. I’m finally okay with my age! And just think, the designer himself was a mere toddler!) With his, indeed, youthful, on-the-pulse eye, Wang is the master of infusing sporty designs with loads of edginess – a rare dichotomy – and these sandals are a prime example. At Saks Fifth Avenue for $495.
Pair with: Sandals with this much presence can handle the blast of turquoise, Columbian mochilla print, and generous size of Proenza Schouler’s much-coveted P.S.1 shoulder bag. At Barneys New York for $1,825.
