As their name implies, platform shoes are characterized by thick, raised soles that are meant to elevate the wearer’s height. They come in various forms, from creepers and platform sneakers to platform heels and platform sandals. Though they’ve been in use since ancient times—for example, by Greek theatre actors to make them more visible—platform shoes became trendy in the 1960s and 1970s as the go-to party shoes for the dance floor.
Today, platform shoes have experienced something of a comeback thanks to modern-day fashion influencers and celebrities. Their unique designs, coupled with their distinctly elevated soles, easily add a touch of edginess and glamour to everyday outfits. At first, they may be intimidating to someone who’s not used to the added height, but there’s nothing that a little fashion magic can’t fix.
If you’re new to wearing platform shoes and want to give them a try, below are five tips and tricks that will allow you to rock them just like the timeless fashion icons of the different decades:
Choose the Right Type of Platform Shoe to Wear
First, to ensure a comfortable and stylish experience, it’s important to select shoes that are easy for you to wear and to incorporate into your favorite ensembles. Consider the following when shopping for a pair of platform heels, sneakers, creepers, or boots:
- Proper fit. Choosing the correct shoe size is crucial to unlocking full comfort and stability from your new pair of platform shoes. Ill-fitting shoes will be a challenge to walk in, and doubly so because of the added weight. Don’t hesitate to try on different sizes or to consult someone who wears these types of shoes often.
- Heel height and shape. Platform shoes come in various heel heights and shapes, and you don’t always have to choose the type with sky-high heels to look good for the occasion. Consider a pair that gels with your personal style and the occasion you’ll be using it for. This will allow you to narrow down your options between towering platforms, chunky heels, or more subtle elevations.
- Materials and textures. You should also pay attention to details other than height when buying the ideal pair of platform shoes. Leather, suede, and canvas are popular choices, and if worn with the right clothing, they’ll add some punchy flair to your overall look.
Wear Platform Sneakers or Creepers to Elevate Casual Looks
Platform sneakers and creepers are ideal for looks that are cool and laid-back as well as eye-catchingly stylish. For example, you can pair your platform sneakers or creepers with a simple T-shirt or crop top, skinny jeans or leggings, and a playful pair of women socks. Finish the look with a denim or leather jacket and some chunky accessories to add some more edge to an otherwise highly wearable outfit.
Bring Out a Stunning Pair of Platform Heels for a Glamorous Night Out
Want to make a bold fashion statement at a convention, a red carpet event, or a special night out with your friends? You’ll be able to achieve a look that’s both fierce and classically elegant by pairing colourful platform heels with your favourite little black dress. The elevated height will also elongate your legs and thus flatter your silhouette.
Take it up a notch by wearing simple and solid-coloured basics, like a jumpsuit or a blazer and matching pants combo, with statement platform heels in fetching patterns. Make these the focal point of your outfit to stand out from the crowd in more ways than one.
Create Artful and Free-Spirited Outfits with Platform Sandals or Wedges
A pair of simple platform sandals or wedges made with materials like straw will bring a touch of romance and Bohemian charm to your wardrobe. Try wearing them with breezy maxi skirts or dresses that come with lace or floral details, and complete the look with a statement necklace, some stacked bracelets, a floppy hat, and a woven bag. You’ll end up with a picture-perfect outfit that you’ll be excited to wear, especially while travelling to new places.
Use Subtle Elevation to Look Both Stylish and Professional at Work
Though most people choose to wear platform shoes in casual settings, where they can afford to be more daring and experimental in the way they dress, wearing platform shoes at work isn’t completely off the table.
You can incorporate shoes with subtler elevation into your work wardrobe and pair them with clothing like tailored trousers or pencil skirts. Opt for more conservative shoe designs that sport clean lines and sleek silhouettes, and wear them with clothes in black, navy, or other neutral hues to appear both fashionable and refined.
Conclusion: Some Last Tips for Confidently Carrying a Pair of Platform Shoes
Lastly, remember that it takes practice to walk comfortably in a pair of platform shoes and be fully confident about wearing them out. Be conscious about maintaining good posture and distributing your weight evenly across your feet. If you aren’t used to wearing platform shoes regularly, practice wearing them for shorter periods to get accustomed to the extra height and the feeling of walking on elevated soles. There’s also no shame in wearing them with cushioned insoles or gel inserts for extra comfort and support.
Now that you know a little more about platform shoes and how to style them, perhaps they’re not as intimidating as you first imagined. Embrace their height, match them up with your personal style, and step into a new world of fashion possibilities!
