Disco dance your way into summer with 10 pairs of ‘70s-inspired platforms
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From patterned flares and ultra-wide denim bell bottoms to crochet tops and disco-inspired bell sleeves, groovy ‘70s fashion is back in a big way. If you’re not quite ready to commit to a head-to-toe retro ensemble, consider stepping into the trend with a shoe revival that we simply can’t get enough of: the ‘70s chunky heel.
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Ahead, find 10 pairs of chunky, retro-inspired platform heels that can be worn day or night for an instantly more stylish summer ensemble.
Dolce Vita Ashby Platform Heels
As is evident in real life and on social media, metallic finishes are a mainstay here in 2023. To embrace the high-shine look while tapping into a sense of retro flair, slip into a pair of the Dolce Vita Ashby Platform Heels. The chunky heels are sold in 10 colors (including two metallic options) in women’s sizes 5 to 13, so it’s no wonder they’ve earned such high praise as the must-have sandal of summer (on TikTok alone, mentions of “Dolce Vita Ashby” have surpassed 306 million views).
“Pair the chunky heels with a micro mini dress for a night-out look,” suggests NYC-based fashion stylist Audree Kate López. If you’re headed to a summer wedding, consider styling them with a flowy dress with matching metallic accents. Of course, you can always dress them down for brunch or a lunch date by pairing them with a pair of jeans and an oversized shirt. The result will look effortlessly chic.
Love the look of these braided platform heels but hoping for a dupe? The A New Day Women’s Basil Mule Heels ($35) have a similar silhouette, though instead of a block heel, they feature a chunky cylinder style. That said, they’re a mere fraction of the price.
Steve Madden Charlize Stacked Platform Heel
The Steve Madden Charlize Stacked Platform Heels, sold in two colors in women’s sizes 5 to 11, are designed to look like the Versace Satin Platform Pumps (which ring in at a whopping $1,475). “These are one of my favorite platform heels,” López admits about the designer dupe. “They are so comfortable and I can wear them all night. They don’t cause blisters and the platform is supportive.”
In terms of when and where to wear them, López says that they work just as well for a wedding ensemble as they do for a posh night out.
$50 at Steve Madden (Save $90)
Unique Vintage Rainbow Suede Peep Toe Pumps
Looking to really lean into that ‘70s vibe? The Unique Vintage Rainbow Suede Peep Toe Pumps, which are sold in women’s sizes 5 to 13, are a great choice. In addition to being sold in this retro rainbow suede silhouette, these pumps are available in three other options, including a pink ombre situation and a metallic gold style.
Best of all, there are so many ways to style them. “Pair the chunky heels with a denim maxi skirt and cropped shirt,” López suggests. Alternatively, she says you could style them with a pair of straight or kick-flare jeans with a cute summer top for a daytime look.
Swooning over the idea of rainbow chunky heels but afraid of ruining a pair of suede shoes? Check out the Jessica Simpson Bautista Platform Sandal ($110) for a metallic iteration. They’re sold in women’s sizes 5 to 12, as well as in a silver option.
Marc Fisher Della Platform Sandal
Ready to dance the night away? López says to reach for a pair of the Marc Fisher Della Platform Sandals, which are sold in seven colors in women’s sizes 5 to 12. “This iridescent platform is giving Abba’s 'Dancing Queen' and I love it,” she exclaims. Additionally, “the ankle strap/backing and the almond-shaped toe is going to give additional support to the foot so it’s secure while walking (or dancing).”
Betsey Johnson Possie Platform Mule
If you don’t love the feel of a full-back pump or simply want to get in on yet another 2023 fashion trend, opt for a pair of the Betsey Johnson Possie Platform Mule. Sold in a fun ‘80s-inspired leopard print and flirty daytime floral, these mules accessorize daytime and evening looks alike. If you’re planning to wear these cuties out for a night on the town, take a note out of López’s book and style them with a mini satin skirt and oversized silk or satin button-up for an instantly chic yet totally effortless look.
Aerosoles Callan Pump
Another shoe trend that was popular in the ‘70s that’s on the rise again today is clogs. With that in mind, López says to turn your attention to the Aerosoles Callan Pumps, which feature a high-rise toe box that mimics a clog silhouette. “Aerosoles are some of the most comfortable shoes on the market and these silver pumps are the perfect mix of disco night out but still comfortable,” she says. They’re sold in three colors in women’s sizes 5 to 12.
Jeffrey Campbell Seventies Platform Sandal
If you can master an ultra-high heel, look no further than the Jeffrey Campbell Seventies Platform Sandals, sold in six colors in women’s sizes 6 to 10. “These Jeffrey Campbell platforms scream disco diva and are perfect for a summer statement shoe,” López says of the towering 5.25-inch platform heel.
Schutz Keefa Gilded Cutout Metallic Leather Sandal
López is a particularly big fan of the Schutz Cutout Sandals. While the Callie Cutout Leather Sandal is her top pick for a flower child-inspired look, since it’s practically sold out, allow us to turn your attention to the Schutz Keefa Gilded Cutout Metallic Leather Sandal. Designed with the same 5.7-inch heel, these chunky sandals are bound to make a bold statement. As far as styling them, López says you can’t go wrong with pairing platforms with a colorful suit for a fun office look or a knit dress for a vacation ensemble.
Nina Shoes Stacie Satin Block High Heel
Say hello to the ultimate wedding guest/bridesmaid heel. “The Nina Shoes Stacie Satin Block High Heel (sold in nine colors in women’s sizes 5 to 11) are the perfect height for a night out dancing,” López says. “I have worn these to multiple weddings and bachelorette parties and my feet have survived dancing without any pain or blisters. Also, the satin is more comfortable than a hard plastic or leather strap material.”
Love the look of the Stacie Satin Block Heels but hoping for a little extra height and a lot more sparkle? López loves the Nina Shoes Dorcas Metallic Textured Block High-Heel ($50). “They are perfect for a wedding or formal event,” she says.
Circus NY Miranda Platform Ankle Strap Sandal
Looking for a slightly shorter chunky heel sandal that you can comfortably wear all day long? López recommends the Circus NY Miranda Platform Ankle Strap Sandal (sold in three colors in women’s sizes 5.5 to 10). “These super chunky platform sandals are the perfect sandal to wear during the day,” she exclaims. “The super chunky block heel and large toe strap are supportive and comfortable, and this pattern is so fun!”
From $55 at Nordstrom (Save up to $45)
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This article originally appeared on Reviewed: 10 pairs of ‘70s-inspired platforms you’ll want to wear all season
