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If you were one of the many millions of people who saw Wonder Woman in theaters this past weekend, you’re likely already in awe of the film’s star, Gal Gadot. The Israeli actress gives a powerhouse performance as the demi-goddess-slash-superhero — despite the questionable practicality of her costume, which includes wedge-heeled gladiator sandals.
But Gadot doesn’t need a magical golden lasso or bullet-deflecting cuffs to make a powerful statement about female strength. Throughout the movie’s press tour, she’s made the (awesome) decision to trade stilettos for flats at every stop.
“I want to create this trend of doing red carpets in flats,” Gadot tells USA Today. “I love wearing high heels — it’s beautiful, it’s sexy, whatever. But at the same time, especially stilettos, it puts us out of balance. We can fall any minute. It’s not good for our backs. Why do we do it? I can wear high heels (despite having a sprained back). But I was like, 'Let’s wear flats!' I’ve been waiting for this moment.”
The star kicked things off on May 23rd, when she stopped by Good Morning America in this blue Diane von Furstenberg top and skirt set from the brand’s pre-fall collection and Christian Louboutin’s Cagouflat peep-toes. (Her exact pair isn’t shoppable online, but the studded Ballalarina style is pretty similar.)
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Then, she headed to an AOL Build taping in this millennial pink pleated mini dress and Louboutin’s pointy-toed Pigalle flats. (The label’s similar Ballalla flats are available online in several different colors.)
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Gadot changed into a striped dress and Tod’s slip-on sneakers for a stop at Good Day New York.
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And things really kicked into high (er, low?) gear at Wonder Woman’s LA premiere, where Gadot paired her red sequined Givenchy gown with Aldo’s $50 Starda sandals.
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And finally, at the film’s Mexico City premiere, Gadot hid a pair of Rocket Dog’s famous platform flip-flops — which, while technically heels, are comfier than most flats — under her Prada gown. You can’t spot them in the evening’s red carpet photos, and for good reason; Gadot’s stylist, Elizabeth Stewart, referred to the sandals as “our lil’ secret” on Instagram.
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