Fashion

Feeling Groovy? Here Are The 6 Best Platforms To Stand On, Literally

by Gillian Fuller
Stocksy

Remember your Spice Girls shoes of yore? And those Steve Madden mesh slides?

And those wild Rocket Dog thong sandals you just had to have in fifth grade? Of course, you do. Those crazy platforms defined our early shoe days, and we're still nostalgic about it.

And that's why we're so excited the 70s staple is making a triumphant revival this season.

Just like it was during recess 10 years ago, the platform is the Cool Girl's wear-everywhere. Thankfully though, this time, it's without the toe rings.

Instantly elevating and perfectly effortless, the platform is one of those pieces that truly makes an outfit.

The shoe is a statement, for sure, but it's available in nearly a zillion different iterations, so what statement it makes is up to you.

Trendy? Try a flatform sandal. Classic? A wedge. Feminine? Heeled platforms. The list goes on and on.

So, if you're going to splurge on anything this spring (and you should, because treat yo' self) we heartily suggest this shoe of the moment.

In the eternal words of Kelly:

Oh my god, shoes.

The Heeled Platform

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Not your everyday heels, these babies are stacked and sky high -- but thanks to the platform, not too hard to walk in. Consider them a blessing (no disguise needed).

Buy it:

Marcus Lupfer cat-print platform, $346; Shoe Cult peep-toe platform, $78; Topshop leather platform, $80

The Flatform Sandal

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Opt for luxe materials (like leather and suede) and subdued colors to keep these from looking like the foam, platform flip flops you rocked in fourth grade.

Buy it:

Andila cleated sandal, $56; Shoe Cult flatform, $58; Camilla leather flatforms, $40

The Flatform Slide

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These are the lazy girl's answer to a summer sandal -- no bells or whistles (or buckles and zippers) involved. The platform keeps 'em from straying into Adidas (or Tevas) territory.

Buy it: 

Steve Madden slides, $100; Forever 21 buckled side, $30; Belle by Sigerson Morrison slides, $210 

The Platform Sneaker

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Sneakers are a fashion girl staple. Bonus: They're comfy as f*ck. You're not going to fall on your ass in these bad boys.

Buy it:

Jeffrey Campbell mesh sneaker, $123; Opening Cermony slip-on sneaker, $260; H&M platform sneaker, $25

The Wood Platform

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These shoes are for the 70s dreamer, boho babe or anyone who likes to keep things au natural. They tend to tower, so newbies, watch your step.

Buy it:

Chinese Laundry wood sandal, $110; Jeffrey Campbell clogs, $207;  Steve Madden wood sandal, $130

The Platform Espadrille

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The easiest way to dip your toe into platform territory (without breaking an ankle) is with a pair of these sturdy, lower-heeled iterations. Plus, who doesn't love a summer espadrille?

Buy it:

MICHAEL Michael Kors braided espadrille, $135; Vince snakeskin espadrille, $275; Alice + Olivia polka-dot espadrille, $295