“They feel light on my feet, and the platform feels subtle,” says lifestyle writer Louise Parks. “They’re an everyday shoe. They’re so comfortable, I want them in every color.” Speaking of color, they come in over a dozen varieties and even some prints, so they can become the focal point of your outfit, or you can use them for a subtle accent. Either way, they’re super walkable without compromising height.
Best Sandal: Beek Emu Platform Heel Sandal
A modern take on the quintessential Y2K platform, the Beek Emu Platform Heel Sandal instantly makes casual warm-weather outfits feel more elevated. They’re made from supersoft vegetable-tanned leather and the adjustable strap makes for a secure fit. They’re easy to wear, thanks to their contouring insoles, and they’re durable, courtesy of a rubber sole. Style them with retro flare jeans, linen trousers, or a midi-dress and add a straw bag for a beachy summer look.
You don’t have to worry about a long break-in period or blisters, either. “They stretch easily and are super comfortable,” wrote one Anthropologie shopper, who vowed to bring home a second pair in another color. They only come in whole sizes though, so if you’re between sizes you’ll want to size down because they tend to run large.
Best for Wide Feet: Dream Pairs Hi-Lo Heeled Sandals
With an impressively high block heel and a simple yet trendy silhouette, this pair of platform dress sandals from Dream Pairs is as easy on the wallet as it is to style. An ankle strap adds stability, and the 1¼-inch platform delivers plenty of height without putting entirely too much pressure on the balls of your feet. While classic black leather is hard to beat, the shoes come in a broad array of colors, including bright bold hues, demure neturals, and even metallics.
“Ask any of my friends and they will tell you that I love these shoes,” says Glamour editorial assistant Monique Wilson. “I’ve worn them to black-tie events, for nights out, and everything in between. I just bought my second pair after four years, and for good reason.” Reviewers also say that it’s a great pair of heels for wide feet.
Best for Summer: Steve Madden Trippy Platform Sandal
Y2K meets boho meets summertime platform perfection in this breezy, casual slip-on sandal. Espadrille-inspired, the Trippy Platform is a warm-weather neutral that goes with everything from jeans to sundresses to full-on beach attire. They’re made from faux leather and have a woven raffia outsole, which means they won’t get ruined if they get a little wet from time to time. Think beachside, poolside, or water park-side. Plus, they’re stable and easy to walk in, thanks to their rubber sole and chunky platform silhouette. Musical festival footwear? Check. Vacation sandals? Check. Baby or bridal shower attire? Check, check.
Best for Wedding: Sam Edelman Kori Platform Heels
If height is the goal when dressing for a night out or a red carpet affair, the Kori Platform Heels most definitely deliver. They’re sleek with a slim silhouette, and while they are not quite as delicate as a stiletto, they’re as close as a platform gets. The dainty ankle strap and barely-there buckle add support without awkwardly cutting off the leg, as ankle straps sometimes do. These shoes are also proof that the peep-toe is back, but the toe, which is neither fully rounded or fully square, keeps the style fresh.
Best Loafers: Nine West Verge Loafer Pumps
A pair of loafers is a wardrobe staple, but throw in a three-inch block heel, patent leather, and a soft square toe and you’ve got the of-the-moment feminine update this classic style deserves. These platform pumps exude confidence and power, and they can be styled with a dainty, flirty miniskirt and ruffled socks just as easily as they can with office-ready trousers and a blazer. Black, of course, is easy to wear, but if you’re feeling bold opt for deep red or teal blue.
“They are so much more comfortable than I expected. The look is fantastic too,” wrote one Zappos shopper. “My feet are slightly wide, mainly at the toe box, so I struggle with finding comfortable shoes. These are great if you need a wider toe box.”
Best Splurge: Nomasei Doyou Pumps
Nomasei’s Doyou Pumps are a grown-up version of the classic Mary Jane with a chic block heel and dainty ankle strap. They have a nice balance of platform and heel height, so the heel slope isn’t painfully high, and they’re surprisingly lightweight. Inspired by the ’90s, these platform heels have a round toe and they’re made from high-quality calf leather and goat leather that makes them totally worth the splurge.
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