What are “gladiator thongs”? I am being asked this question frequently and thought it best to clarify because I refer to them quite often. No, this isn’t a style of underwear that was popular in Roman times. It is a sandal.

Thong sandal: generic term used to describe a sandal that has a strap of sorts between your big and second toe. “Flip-flops” are a type of thong.

The gladiator thong is a Grecian/Roman inspired flat style sandal (Russell Crowe must have been quite the inspiration!). Because of its versatility, this thong is the “it” sandal for summer. It will cover many bases because you’ll be able to dress it up or down:

• Kick your swimwear up a notch – pretty beaded thongs are a lot more “Saint Tropez” then plastic flip flops.
• Kick your jeans up a notch – substitute heels for pretty metallic thongs – you’ll look more relaxed, yet just as lady-like.
• Ideal for white pants – gladiator thongs are the perfect summer sandal for white pants.
• Super with walk shorts – they’ll instantly dress up a pair of walk shorts if you add a cropped jacket as well.
• Good for dresses – I’ve also found them ideal for flirty knee length dresses – just enough prettiness and without the heel.

Flat, slightly wedged, bejeweled, beaded, metallic, strappy, lace-up or ethnic – gladiator thongs are stylish this season and it’s a good idea to have a pair in your wardrobe. If you’re only after one pair, I’d recommend a metal. Update those flip flops, show off that glossy pedicure and love your pretty feet!

Examples of Gladiator things from Nine West, who have started their summer sale.

Weddings, graduations, summer parties and warmer weather bring on the desire and need to wear dresses. For many, along with that comes a spotlight on those extra curvy areas around the tummy, thigh and bottom. The ultimate solution is a pair of contouring undies which have a built in lift. There will be no room for cellulite to make its presence felt and you’ll feel supported in all those areas that previously made you feel exposed. The extra-thick lycra redistributes your flesh, giving the appearance that you are slimmer than you actually are. All skin imperfections are smoothed out and you’ll be able to slip on the thinnest of fabrics with confidence.

You have quite a few contour control options. Here are the two I recommend:

• Spanx are probably the most popular and are offered in a variety of forms (options for pregnant Mums-to-be are also available).Their thicker waistbands may have the tendency to cut into your flesh and “roll” rather like what panty hose can do.
• DKNY body shapers are without waistband and therefore prevent any cutting and “waistband rolling” to occur. I have a friend who has tried them all and she maintains that these by far the most comfortable.

It might take you ten minutes to get into one of these body shapers, but the results are magical and well worth it. Bottoms up ladies!

Spanx contour control underwear (best-seller at Nordstrom), Spanx for pregnant ladies, and DKNY body shaper, all available from Nordstrom.