Wedge sandals are not new! Worn by actors and actresses of tragedies, they appeared in ancient Greece. To make them visible on stage to all the spectators, the tragedians wore high sandals called buskins. A way of also standing out from the comedy actors who wore low sandals called soccus. Always with a concern for practicality, sandals resurfaced from the 15th to the 18th century among high society women. They were then used to protect against mud, like rain boots today.
Their decline begins when cities become urbanized and sidewalks begin to take on the appearance we know today. During the Renaissance, Venetian courtesans wore “chopines” to protect their long dresses from water running down the streets and waste. The heels of these platform shoes can reach up to 70 cm. The playwright Shakespeare even made fun of these stilt shoes by calling them “altitude”. In 1430, an Italian law aimed to ban these shoes which would be dangerous for women. They would endanger the health of women victims of miscarriages and repeated falls. The law was renewed in 1512 but the ban was still not promulgated. They were definitively abandoned in the 17th century.
From a purely useful function, platform sandals are gradually becoming a fashion accessory. In the 1930s, shoe institutions like Roger Vivier and Salvatore Ferragamo made it their signature. The heels are not as high as Italian pints, we reassure you! THE platform sandals continue to raise the fashionistas with more gentleness. Under the Occupation, leather was reserved for men’s boots. Women make do with what they have at hand. They therefore turn to cork and wood to make their shoes. The sole must be thick enough not to be damaged on contact with water. In the 70s, they made their comeback in parallel with the popularization of bell-bottom pants. A final touch that enhances a look, the sandal also regains its original function. It saves a few centimeters to prevent the pants from dragging on the ground.
Platform sandals: trends for summer 2022
THE platform shoes are undeniably the shoes to grab right now. In raffia tied at the waist, brown or black, with notched soles, more or less compensated: the choice is gargantuan. It is impossible for luxury brands like cheap local stores to miss the phenomenon. The Italian luxury brand Miu Miu revisits the controversial Méduse in ultra desirable (or not) platform sandals while Valentino opts for candy pink pumps with oversized heels. The model which resembles the shoes of the Bratz dolls has already seduced Zendaya, Vanessa Hudgens and the it girl Chiara Ferragni. Dolce & Gabbana offers them minimalist black or dark green with an XXL logo.
How to dress with platform sandals?
The clear advantage is that these summer shoes go with any outfit. To avoid making any mistakes, here are some small tips which will definitely come in handy!
To go out with friendsbet on a white patterned t-shirt with a long flowing skirt or denim shorts and platform shoes black with notched soles. A modern and feminine look! To add vibes 70s, add like Miss France 2021 Amandine Petit a scarf in your hair. So chic ! And if you have courage, why not try wearing sandals with socks. Always a risky bet but if done well, it can be a winner!
For a working girl look, opt for a black or gray striped blazer that you twist with a bandeau bra accompanied by white shorts and yellow, pink or neon green platform sandals. An ensemble worthy of the most seasoned fashionistas!
For a family lunch, a plain jumpsuit and very compensated raffia platform pumps will do the trick. Or a long floral dress with sandals with brown and gold suede straps. You choose !
For a more dressy eveningthe satin bodycon dress combo and leather platform sandals with belt effect buckles is a must !
Don’t forget to dress your nails with your most beautiful varnish and that’s it!
Read also :
⋙ How to wear flip flops, the star shoes of summer? Tips and new features for 2022
⋙ Fanny pack: how to wear it with style?
⋙ Women’s cap: how to choose the right one and wear it with style? Tips and news