After two years of athleisure, oversized silhouettes, and video chats, destination dressing is having a welcomed comeback tour. As evident by the never-ending tap-worthy content of the girls this summer, there’s no expectation for this to slow down in the colder months. This year it’s all about making memorable IRL experiences, including dressing the part.
Falling in line with the rebirth of Bratz fashion, and ultimately everything related to Y2K style, platforms continue to be the IT shoe of the season for all parties involved. From Versace to Marc Jacobs to Valentino, you can’t throw a butterfly clip three feet without hitting a seeing a sky-high shoe of some sort.
According to global shopping platform, Lyst, platform boots were the top product for the first quarter of 2022, alongside the ankle-strap platform offered by Valentino. Last week alone, online searches for platforms were up 16% and chunky loafers were up at a higher rate of 23%. The versatility of the platform is what keeps the trend fresh, and effortless for a multitude of people with different styles. No matter the occasion, there’s a platform for you.
Keep reading to shop 7 trending pairs of platforms for fall, at every price point.
1.Flat Boots
The easiest and most comfortable option of the bunch, flat platform boots are an effortless way to incorporate platforms into your everyday wardrobe. Due to the trend being around for a year or so, there are plenty of options across many fabrics, colors, and heights. This boot saw a lot of action during the beginning of the year, but with a change in fabric and in darker hues, expect to see it twice as much.
2.Open Toe Heels
One of the more classic ways to rock the platform, but equally one of the sexiest. There’s no denying the (not-so) subtle sexiness that comes from a great platform heel. Anything that elongates the leg and creates a beautiful silhouette is an immediate yes. The Prada heel (pictured above) is having its moment in the sun, but there is a lot of variety out there. Glitter is optional of course, but, what’s the harm?
3.BRATZ-inspired Pumps
You’re living under a fashion rock if you haven’t seen the Bratz-inspired subset of this trend. Everyone from Gabrielle Union to Latto to Lil' Kim has been spotted slaying this style of the platform, often resulting in a new phenomenon of Barbiecore. As seen on our celebrity favorites, it’s often touted as a going-out shoe but Ramona (pictured above) effortlessly showcases how easy this trend can be paired with a casual outfit.
4.Heeled Boots
If you want to make a statement without overdoing it, a platform boot is for you. Tall boots have been trending for a couple of years so there’s a variety of options available. If a tall boot isn’t your speed, the ankle boot is also on its comeback tour.
5.Mules
While this presents as more of a summer trend, the mule is a great transitional piece for anyone’s wardrobe. It’s easily paired under wide-leg denim, can delicately compliment a simple slip dress, or elevate a simple monochromatic matching set.
6.Loafers
Another cool yet classic way to incorporate platforms into your wardrobe; the loafer is the silent winner of the trend. The Prada version is the strongest contender (pictured above), but plenty of designers are offering their own versions. This is a newer faction of this trend but it’s not expected to be a one-season hitter; expect to see her in 2023 too.
7.Goddess Strap Up
Lastly, another summer trend that’s transitioning into the fall months effortlessly. The gladiator sandal is on the verge of a resurgence, and this is just the first iteration of that. This fall must-have is the statement shoe for any after-hours party, house party, or even a cute, late-night date night. It’s giving an understated vibe; the girl is ready to have fun but as always, keeping it cute!
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Featured image by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images