Many older fashion items are making a comeback in recent years. One of them is the platform sneaker, which is an incredibly comfortable, trendy, and versatile item of footwear.
Platform shoes and sneakers are footwear that have a thick sole all the way across the bottom of the shoe. This keeps the foot in a flat position while creating extra height. These days, platforms are available in a wide array of different shoe types ranging from wedges and boots to sneakers. They’re increasingly popular again because they increase the height of the person, while being more comfortable than traditional high heels.
Importantly, they’re a great style choice while still being functional. They visually heighten and elongate while also offering more shock absorption and are more practical such as having cushioning in the shoe. It also provides more stability and are often even favorably compared to flat sneakers.
Recently, this versatile style has been commonly seen on the runways, as part of streetwear collections , and also worn by celebrities and influencers. All of this has served to see a boom in the popularity and availability of platform shoes.
Historical Evolution — From Ancient Theaters to 70s Disco Floors
Surprisingly, platform shoes have a long history. Back in Ancient Greece, platform shoes were used to increase the performer’s height on stage. This helped improve visibility to those watching. The platform shoe was also used commonly in the Middle Ages as well. Back then, streets were not well-built, nor well-maintained. As such, they were often muddy or dirty with other detritus. The use of platform shoes helped people get across the street without getting muddy or dirty. In Japan, platform shoes were also commonly used throughout the ages. The traditional geta sandal has a platform — a clog-sandal cross —was used to help improve poise and balance.
As the years passed, the platform shoe underwent a variety of changes. By the 1930s, the look had changed once more. In 1938, the Ferragamo “Rainbow” sandal. It was designed specifically for Judy Garland and showcased the artistry of the designer, as well as bringing the platform directly into the eye of the fashion world.
The 1970s was a great decade for the platform shoe. It had a huge explosion in popularity, especially thanks to the glam rock and disco eras. Additionally, it was seen as a gender-fluid shoe which helped to perpetuate its popularity over the years. The platform shoe has had a strong impact and cultural presence in many movements including Soul Train, David Bowie, KISS, and ABBA. With such high-profile bands wearing various designs and versions of this shoe, they became increasingly popular.
Their popularity died down for a bit, but then resurfaced in popularity in the 1990s. Once again, this was primarily due to their popularity in music, with many major bands wearing platforms. Notable musicians and bands during this time that were seen wearing these shoes included the Spice Girls. From this point, they morphed and became part of the streetwear culture.
Saving Money When Buying Shoes
With so many platform designs out there, it’s no surprise to find a wide array of different brands and designers offering something up. For one, Converse is a major designer of comfortable sneakers and, in recent years, has designed an array of different platform shoes. In fact, their platform sneakers are incredibly stylish and fit into the current fashion trends and styles. Getting a pair of these good quality shoes is still made easier thanks to various seasonal deals or coupons that are available online. You should consult the Converse page on Discoup to find out more about such deals and promo codes: then it will be even easier to get high-quality products that fit current trends without having to spend too much.
When shopping for these types of sneakers, there are many different brands popular for their platform sneakers. Of course, Converse is not the only brand to explore this resurgent platform shoe. Each brand offers something different. For instance, there is Vans, Superga, Dr. Martens, and Steve Madden. Each of these has a different style making it important to choose the right one for your look and personality. Superga, that is known for its minimalist European flair, has also designed various platform options. While Vans has a very urban vibe and offers several street-style platforms, Dr. Martens are more clunky, offering a rebellious style and edgier approach. Lastly, Steve Madden is great for those looking for that modern chic and bold, contemporary flatforms. As such, there’s plenty of options when it comes to style and choice, ensuring that anyone can create the look they’re after.
Styling Platform Sneakers – Fashion Meets Function
With so many options available, it’s easy to see why platform sneakers are so styleable. They work across all styles from retro and comfort, to streetwear. It’s a great way to turn any outfit into something a little more special. They can be used at any occasion.
Dress up a more casual look with a pair of platform sneakers. You can pair this with jeans of different styles — you can go with your own preference — and a simple t-shirt for that casual vibe. If you’re looking for that effortlessly casual, classic look, then pair white platform sneakers with high-waisted jeans and a cropped top. You can even up the casual level by pairing these sneakers with shorts or even a skirt.
For those looking to go a little more elegant, then oversized blazers and tailored pants are the way to go. The pants can be cropped or full-length depending on whether you’re showing off the platform sneakers, or the occasion.
Excitingly, platform sneakers are good for all seasons too. Paired with lightweight summer dresses, platform sneakers become an iconic, hot girl summer look. As mentioned, they can be worn with jeans and blazers too. Layering outfits and adding height with platform sneakers is a great look in the winter months.
As they’re comfortable with extra cushioning and shock absorption, they’re better for longer wear times too. They’ve been modified over the years too, offering lighter construction, better arch support, increased durability and a better heel-to-toe drop, all of which makes the more functional, and readily adoptable into today’s fashion.
