They reappeared in modern Western fashion history in the 1930s when war was on the horizon and materials were rationed. In the ’70s, they were championed by David Bowie and Elton John; in 1993, Naomi Campbell took her infamous tumble on the catwalk wearing a towering pair by Vivienne Westwood. And now, the not-so-humble platform is having its moment in fashion again, appearing on catwalks from Versace to Valentino. So how should you wear them?

For daytime, team with flared jeans and a pinstriped shirt, or a pencil skirt and pleated blouse. As for after dark, there’s a reason that platforms are synonymous with the heady days of disco – they’re the ideal dancing shoe. Sturdy, comfortable and incredibly versatile, they make legs look slimmer, particularly if you opt for styles with a thin ankle strap. Maximise their leg-lengthening powers by wearing them with a micro-mini and patterned tights, or channel Bianca Jagger by wearing yours with a slick suit that’s both comfortable and chic. Yes, you can be both.

Get The Look

L-R (top row): Brown Heloise 120mm platform sandals, Jimmy Choo; Natalia bow-embellished plissé-lamé platform sandals, Loeffler Randall; Pink Medusa Aevitas embellished satin platform pumps, Versace; Mirrored-platform metallic-leather sandals, Miu Miu; Green One Stud 120mm platform sandals; Valentino Garavani.

L-R (middle row): Sundance 140 metallic leather platform sandals, Aquazurra; Clarita Pillar platform heel, Alexandre Birman; Blue Butterfly satin platform sandals, Alexander McQueen; Silver Sinner Plateau 140 metallic-leather sandals, Aquazurra; Crystal-embellished satin platform sandals; Prada.

L-R (bottom row): Gold Heloise 120mm platform sandals, Jimmy Choo; Pink Gian 140mm platform pumps, Jimmy Choo; Rose-print 105 satin platform sandals, Dolce & Gabbana, Sonya Sandals, Salvatore Ferragamo; Purple platform bow-front sandals; Miu Miu.

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