The hottest shoe trend of the season is super nostalgic
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If you — like me — draw the line at putting your feet through hell in the name of fashion, I have some good news for you: Platforms are back like never before. And while shoe trends come and go faster than you can say “kitten-heel thong sandals,” it looks like the platform movement — which takes major inspiration from decades past — is here to stay.
From ‘90s-inspired mules (à la Steve Madden) to ‘70s-esque clogs, the chunky, block-heel look is nostalgic, of course — but most importantly, it’s rooted in comfort. Aka, it’s the perfect trend for those of us who want some extra height without having to wobble around in unbearable stilettos. (Seriously: It’s time to finally put away those excruciating, single-sole sandals that make it difficult to walk the day after a night out.)
Below, find 16 chic, trendy platforms that are rooted in retro vibes but still feel “right now” — and most importantly, they won’t wreak havoc on your feet.
Schutz Rinna Leather Sandal, $128
In case you haven’t noticed, woven leather is a massive trend right now. This cool-girl sandal by Schutz — a brand I love for its trendy and affordable designs — features a chunky, stacked wooden heel and platform for ultimate ‘70s vibes.
Melissa Essential Heel, $125
Melissa — a footwear brand known for its cutesy, ultra-comfy creations — comes in hot with a classic platform sandal perfect for pairing with sundresses and jeans alike.
Swedish Hasbeens Mirja Ankle Strap Clog, $162 (orig. $270)
I’m all for the neon trend. Inject some whimsy and color into your wardrobe with these chunky wooden clogs adorned with neon-green embossed leather straps.
Laurroude Miso Platform Sandal, $285
Transport yourself back a few decades with these cognac-hued leather mules featuring a chunky heel and platform. Just add bell bottoms.
Stuart Weitzman Ryder 95 Platform Sandal, $450
Stuart Weitzman’s iconic platform sandal — here rendered in metallic-gold leather — is the perfect shoe for formal occasions. (Or just a girls’ night out.)
Ancient Greek Sandals Katina Comfort Clog, $280
Prolific sandal brand Ancient Greek Sandals’ chic, minimal Katina clogs have a padded insole and a practical, 2.25-inch heel with a 1-inch platform. Aka, they were made to be comfortable. (It’s even in the name.)
Vince Camuto Jeckima Platform Mule, $110
If you haven’t heard by now, clogs are back. And whether you’re happy or befuddled about that news, I think we can probably all agree that these open-toe platform mules are the consummate cool-girl shoe.
Anthropologie Knotted Woven Platform Sandal, $175
Anthropologie knocked it out of the park with this design, featuring baby-blue woven leather and a ratan-wrapped chunky heel and platform. (Plus, there’s an ankle strap for maximum comfort.) What more could you ask for?
ASOS Design Neale Chunky Platform Heeled Sandal, $46
The fashion industry said “Chunky, ‘90s-inspired sandals are back” — and ASOS delivered. These lug-sole, open-toe slides might look like they’re right out of a 1996 Steve Madden catalog, but I assure you — they’re right on trend for this moment.
Matisse Footwear Ocean Ave. Platform Sandal, $45
Braided raffia just screams summer. These feature a low, chunky block heel and a padded insole for maximum comfort during your warm-weather shenanigans.
Sam Edelman Trianna Block Platform Sandal, $140
With a jute platform and black suede straps, Sam Edelman’s Trianna block-heel platforms likely go with just about every summer top and sundress in your wardrobe.
Ego Nerve Chunky Heel Sandal, $37
Strappy, chunky lug-sole sandals that barely feel like heels? The absolute ideal shoes for nights on the town, if you ask me.
Soludos Ravello Platform Espadrille, $95
It’s a wedge, but not a wedge. With a braided jute sole and soft leather upper, the Soludos Ravello espadrille will take you comfortably into sunny days.
Urban Outfitters Rachel Floral Strappy Platform Heel, $59
Show your soles some floral support — sorry, I had to — with Urban Outfitters’ retro, ‘70s-inspired floral textile heels.
Etienne Aigner Embossed Platform Sandal, $178
Soar to new heights with these sky-high Etienne Aigner platforms in all-over embossed leather. (That is, if you’re not afraid of heights — because these are high high.)
Paris Texas Malena Platform Sandal, $456 (orig. $570)
Hot-pink platform sandals with a 5-inch heel and wraparound ankle straps certainly aren’t for the faint of heart. But if you want to get an instant confidence boost, look no further than Paris Texas’ spicy (and on sale!) Malena sandals.
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