Every year it seems more retro styles make a return to fashion with a little bit of a twist. In this case, the shoe trends for 2020 is no exception. Most of us, unless you’re a shoe fanatic, notice the cut, colours and shapes of outfits on the runway more than the shoes. Unless you’re in the front row, it’s easy to miss and we don’t usually recognize them until later. However, the perfect shoe plays a key role in completing the vibe of your overall look. As the wave of trends for 2020 came in, we noticed a key shift to a lot of ‘70s and ‘90s inspired fashion. And with this comes the reintroduction to the platforms! From Spring/Summer to Fall/Winter collections, the modernized platform craze is going strong, including sky-high boots, chunky flatforms and even the beloved sneakers got a lift.
While the platform or chunky soles can be considered statement-making, many collections like Tibi had minimal sandal styles available for easy casual wear. Who knew the platforms could be so versatile? This shoe has come a long way from ancient times, from initially being designed to make people taller. The ‘70s disco and Spice Girls ‘90s eras might first thing that pops in your head when you consider these shoes. But, its first inception into modern days was with the introduction of Salvatore Ferragamo‘s fashion-forward cork sandal in the 1930s. It was a rainbow-coloured heel that is considered to be a fashionable yet modern design to date.
So my short and tall friends, its time to breathe in a new chic lift to your wardrobe and give a chance to this chunky shoe trend that’s moving full speed ahead. With so many styles, colours, textures and even heights available, you’re bound to find one that suits your personal aesthetic best.
Check out our list chunky platform shoes you should definitely give a shot:
1. The Flatform Sandals
Does anybody remember the flatform in the ‘90s? They were super popular and made famous by Steve Madden. Even seen on celebs like Jennifer Aniston and Gwen Stefani on the red carpet. Whether it was thong or sporty styles, my most vivid memory is from the movie 10 Things I Hate About You, where the key character Kat, wore them all the time.
The Flatform this year was seen heavily on Tibi’s and Giambattista Valli’s runways as a key part of their S/S ’20 collection. Also showcased on Anna Sui’s spring collection, where models were seen in a more floral clog version. Fendi also played with some retro pinks shades while Simone Rocha designed some elegant looking signature pearl-encrusted straps.
Style Tip: These shoes are a great choice that gives you the same height as your favourite pair of heels but with more comfort. Invest in buckled sandals or colourful slides that can easily be thrown on and paired with most items in your closet without much thought.
2. Platform heels
The peep-toes reigned supreme this time with very ‘70s inspired designs. From Celine to Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini, the ‘70s designs had a modern touch with fun elements like coloured leather, snakeskin and crystal studs to name a few. If you thought Spring/Summer collections were filled with platforms, Fall/Winter was full steam ahead. Miu Miu had a variety of minimalistic peep toes and Tom Ford styled these platforms more retro with funky heels and socks to pair with the nostalgic vibe of their collection.
Style Tip: These types of heels are perfect for a night out and easily worn all year around. Pair any colour with your favourite flowy dress to get a bright elevated look. Alternatively, you can be bold and wear them with socks during the cooler days. Which, by the way, is still quite a popular look in fashion circles. Pair them with a cute feminine skirt and look instantly like a fashion-forward trendsetter.
3. The Mary Janes
Mary Janes are a classic shoe that we always see on the runways in one form or another. Throughout the years they have appeared many famous brands collections like Chanel, Gucci, Prada and Dior. Because this shoe whether heeled or flat is chic yet conservative it’s a super versatile option. In recent years that had taken a backseat but made its renewed comeback this year. For the fall/winter 2020 collections the mary jane received an even higher lift than usual with a grownup platform boost. This girlish style was seen in Gucci’s runway with a Victorian doll aesthetic in patent versions. While Simon Rocha’s models rocked satin mary janes for their very feminine Catholicism inspired collection.
Style Tip: Pair your chunky mary janes with a flared skirt or high-waisted straight fit pants or embrace the retro vibe by taking direct inspiration from the runway.
4. Platform Boots
Stomp your way into fall with some sexy, sky-high platform boots. We noticed a lot of combat and Chelsea boots continue to dominate this year but the more chunky heels caught our attention. Some more heavy-duty or practical than others. They were seen in different shapes like geometric toes and party-ready colours. They have returned from the ‘70s and ‘90s in versions that work for both adventurous dressers and sleek minimalists. From Paco Rabanne to Dries Van Noten, the key common component seen was the snakeskin print boots.
Style Tip: If platform boots aren’t your style, you can opt for more heavy-duty combat boots. Pair it with some feminine pieces, like a flowy dress or skirt. This will give you a trendy touch with a tough yet soft juxtaposition.
5. Sneaker Platforms
Have you got these in your closet yet? The sneaker platform again gained popularity in 2019. From then on they were available everywhere! From trendy high-street brands to luxury designers like Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, and Balenciaga who feature more refined styles. More practical than heels, this shoe has been seen on many A-list celebs and online fashionistas. So if you haven’t jumped on this trend yet this is your call to do so. Plus with so many versions available; sleek, polish, fashion-forward or comfy, it’s easier than ever to find your perfect pair.
Style Tip:The awesome bit about these trendy sneakers is you can literally style them with anything. To start off, invest in a pair of plain white keds. This colour goes with well with more tailored looks, off-duty denim and even dresses.
What do you think of the platform shoe trend? Which version are you willing to try? Let us know in the comments below.
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