25 Best Platform Boots For Women 2023 – Footwear News

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Footwear News may receive an affiliate commission.

When it comes to the most sought-after boot trends of the season, evergreen silhouettes like classic ankle boots, winter boots, rain boots, and utilitarian-inspired combat boots will always be in style. This season, though, we can only talk about the best women’s boots by highlighting the statement-making platform boots for women. Whether your fancy gothcore or you’d to add a ’70s twist to your go-to, cozy knitwear, this footwear trend is for you.

This season, luxury labels across the board have put their own spin on this wear-with-everything boot. High-heeled platform boots were seen in many iterations at Prada, Miu Miu, Saint Laurent, Valentino, and Versace, to name a few. Of course, there were also those “safer,” more classic-everyday platform boots from the likes of Bottega Veneta and The Row with their top-zip boots that they re-introduce each season in a range of decadent colorways.

If you want to stand apart from the crowd (or quite literally above the crowd), the platform boots trend will help you to do just that. This footwear style has been spotted in all corners of the world and was initially created to protect oneself and their clothing from the elements, including mud and dirt. The first platform shoes date back to the western world in the early 1930s, but it was in the 1970s that they became popular. Paired with flared hemlines, these were seen on men and women everywhere. In the 1990s and 2000s, the rebellious club kids turned to this footwear style by the masses. Some might call this a continuation of the “ugly” shoe trend, and we’re cool with that. Ugg’s classic ultra mini platform boot sells out moments after each re-stock, a clear sign this trend is here to stay.

Whether they’re toughening up dresses or updating your utilitarian aesthetic, this season’s edit of platform boots will give your wardrobe extra attitude. So, keep scrolling for our curated list of the best platform boots for women this season, including expert information about the biggest trends and platform boot outfit ideas to get you inspired and ready for the chilly days ahead.

Top Platform Boots for Women 2023

Dear Frances Tony Platform Chelsea Boot

Best Platform Chelsea Boots

Sizes: 4-13, including half sizes
Heel height: 1.2”
Materials: leather, suede, elastic (side panels)
Colors: all black, brown, all white, black with white, tan
Best for: Dressing down a wide leg trouser
Pros: Dear Frances pairs with nonprofits like Soles4Souls to ensure that for every pair of Dear Frances shoes purchased, a pair of shoes is sent to a person in need

There’s a reason the Dear Frances Tony boot is known as the “winter wardrobe hero.” Handcrafted in Italy from supple leather and fixed with a subtle platform, this boot transcends seasons. It’s easy to slip on and off, and like all Dear Frances shoes, comfort reigns supreme. Whether you’re sitting at your desk or bound to walk an average of 20K steps a day, these will secure your feet while giving any outfit a chic twist that will have every style lover coming up to ask who makes them. “Platforms are hugely important right now, much more so than this time last year, for example. However, they can also be a timeless option when the platform is subtle, and the pitch of the boot is just right,” suggests Frances. When investing in high-quality footwear, it’s vital to take good care of them as that will aid in their longevity. “Using your Dear Frances dust bag to keep your shoes clean and fresh. It’s also important to store leather shoes away from direct sunlight and away from any direct heat sources, such as winter radiators. If your boots get wet in the weather, no problem, but just be sure to air dry them before storing them in your wardrobe,” notes Frances.

Steve Madden Fanatik Platform Knee High Boots

Best Affordable Knee-High Platform Boots

Sizes: 6-10, including half sizes
Heel height: 3”
Platform height: ¾”
Shaft height: 15”
Calf circumference: 16”
Materials: leather upper, textile lining, synthetic sole
Colors: black and brown
Best for: a knee length pencil skirt
Pros: will dress up any skirt or dress

There are many boots on Amazon, Steve Madden’s uber-chic square-toe Fanatik boots are the best platform boots on Amazon. They have a hidden inside zipper closure to secure the leg and provide easy on-and-off access. These mod boots will give your look a retro 1970’s twist. Pair them with a printed thin knit sweater and wool pencil skirt and your go-to suede satchel bag this fall. They’ll give your look a hint of additional height that will have you entering every room with confidence.

Open Edit Jasper Platform Boot

Best Square-Toe Platform Boots

Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
Platform height: 1 3/4”
Shaft height: 7”
Materials: synthetic upper and lining, rubber sole
Colors: black, olive green
Best for: pairing with wide-leg denim and cozy knits
Cons: They run very narrow

Open Edit is known for affordable, versatile, and trend-forward footwear. Their Jasper boot comes in both olive green and a black colorway. The platforms sit on a chic square toe, and they’re sure to add a bold finish to every look, from your denim to your silky slip dresses. The inside zipper allows you to easily slip them on and quickly remove them after a long day. There is a slight stretch to the upper so they will adjust to fit most leg widths. Expect a snug fit around the foot and ankle.

What Reviewers Say: “I like these but they’re very narrow. Have to break them in if your foot is wider.”

Sam Edelman Sidney Platform Ankle Bootie

Best Brown Platform Boots

Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
Heel height: 3”
Shaft height: 9”
Calf circumference:8”
Materials: leather, synthetic insole
Colors: burnt chestnut brown, black, eggshell
Best for: pairing with wide leg jeans and oversized turtleneck sweater
Pros: these will look incredible in the city or at the slopes while you ‘après ski’ this winter season

These gorgeous Sidney short-platform boots from Sam Edelman are incredibly versatile. The narrow leather buckle adds some polish, and the cozy ankle stretchy-side paneling allows you to them slip on and off the boots without fuss. When you’re looking for some extra height that will also keep your feet warm in the chilly days ahead, these are a great option. They’re a modern 70s platform boot and a desirable sock boot making these an MVP in your fall wardrobe — with an affordable price to match!

Vagabond Janick Platform Suede Ankle Boots

Most Comfortable Platform Boots

Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
Heel height: 3”
Shaft height:9”
Calf circumference: 8”
Materials: suede, sustainable textile lining, leather insole
Colors: Brown
Best for: Pairing with leather pants or a Canadian tuxedo
Pros: these are sustainable and tanned using sustainable chrome-free leather

Vagabond’s supple dark chocolate suede platform ankle boots are a classic closet staple you didn’t know you needed. Like all of Vagabond’s shoes, sustainability plays an important part in their makeup. These Janick boots are crafted from chrome-free leathers and a textile lining comprised of certified organic cotton and lyocell, which is a more sustainable alternative for the environment. We love a monochromatic look and suggest wearing these with all different tonal shades of brown. These are timeless boots that you can buy now and covet forever.

Jeffrey Campbell Mexique Platform Booties

Best Black Platform Boots

Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
Heel height: 5”
Platform height:2 ¼”
Materials: synthetic upper, leather lining
Colors: black, brown, beige, mauve
Best for: a flirty slip dress and oversized sweater to wear on your next date night
Pros: these will give you a serious height boost

When it comes to the best black platform boots to treasure this season, Jeffrey Campbell’s Mexique booties made the list for more reasons than one. First, they will give your look a 70’s twist, one of the hottest footwear trends this season. Crafted with a leather-lined inner and a boosted woodgrain platform and block heel, these sleek, sexy platforms are perfect for your next date night. If an all-black platform boot is a bit too stark for your taste, this style comes with a brown woodgrain platform which is a nice contrast to black that works to both dress up or down your look, depending on what you’re going for.

Dr. Martens Audrick Platform Chelsea Boots

Best White Platform Boots

Sizes: 5-12, including half sizes
Heel height: 1 7/8”
Platform height: 1 1/2”
Materials: leather, PVC
Colors: white
Best for: toughening up a preppy look with chinos, oversized navy blazer and leather bucket bag
Pros: Lightweight platform sole

There’s a reason Dr. Martens Audrick’s boot has a cult following. When thinking about the best platform Chelsea boots, this is a top contender for its durability and versatility. Several reviewers suggest pairing these with a thick sock if you have narrower feet, while other suggest sizing up one full size if you have wide feet. These are a staple that everyone should have in their closet. You can wear them in the rain, snow, sleet, and mud, and be assured that you will have traction and your feet will stay dry comfortably and wear after wear. There’s also an edge synonymous with the Dr. Marten legacy, which will add some grit to every look you pair them with.

What Reviewers Say: “SO comfy. So cute and more comfortable than the normal Chelsea boots.”

Circus by Sam Edelman Ana Platform Booties

Best Affordable Chunky Platform Boots

Sizes: 6-12, including half sizes
Heel height: 3 ¼”
Shaft height: 8”
Materials: Synthetic upper, lining, sole
Colors: camel brown
Best for: wearing with your autumnal knitwear from head to toe
Cons: Runs slightly large, recommended to size down half size

Chunky platform booties are one of the biggest footwear trends again this season. Circus by Sam Edelman has crafted a trend-forward chunky platform boot that’s under $100 and will truly pair well with every look. This gorgeous camel colorway will look great with your utilitarian pants, a denim maxi skirt, or an all-beige winter-white look. These are a great gift for yourself or every boot wearer in your family this holiday season.

What Reviewers Say: “I love them. I bought them for me but then my daughter took them and wore for her homecoming.”

The Row Zipped 1 Platform Ankle Boots

Best Zippered Platform Combat Boots

Sizes: 5-12, including half sizes
Heel height: 2”
Platform height: 5”
Materials: leather, rubber sole
Colors: burgundy
Best for: adding a pop of color to your look
Cons: Runs slightly narrow around the ankle

The Row’s classic Zipped 1 platform ankle boots are a client favorite due to their sleek round toe, classic silhouette, supple leather, small platform, and expert craftsmanship. These are perfect for those who like to toughen up their look but still look put-together and chic. These are appropriate for day or night and will look great with a girly dress, tweed pencil skirt, or all-black leather for your next date. If you’re looking for something special to invest in this season, this beautiful red colorway is so unique, setting it apart from other boots in the luxury platform category.

Saint Laurent Cherry Platform Combat Boots

Best Black Heeled Platform Boots

Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
Heel height: 4”
Platform height: 5”
Materials: leather
Colors: black
Best for: pairing with all black for a dramatic look
Pros: lace up front makes it easy to slip on, and adjust to the width of your foot

Saint Laurent combines expert craftsmanship with cool-girl energy season after season. These heeled platform combat boots are a great investment because they can be worn under trouser pants to give you some “hidden” height or with a flowy dress and parka for a girl’s night out. The silver ring detail at the back of the ankle is both a boot charm and can be used to help you slip into the shoes without the need for a shoehorn. These boots are a little bit goth and a whole lot of fashion.

Stuart Weitzman Soho Knee High Boots

Best Platform Riding Boots

Sizes: 5-11, whole sizes
Platform height: 3”
Wedge height:5”
Shaft height: 17”
Shaft width: 14”
Materials: leather
Colors: black
Best for: Those looking for a riding boot that’s totally unique
Cons: wide around the ankle

When it comes to the best platform boot brands, Stuart Weitman delivers an iteration that is a total must-have. Its sleek platform riding boot merges equestrian influences with expert craftsmanship. The highest quality materials and modern refinement are a few details that are synonymous with the American luxury house. We love these and suggest pairing them with chunky winter white knits for a dramatic yet refined look that will make you stand out for all the right reasons.

Miu Miu Platform Hiking Boots

Best Platform All-In-One Boots

Sizes: 5-12, including half sizes
Platform height: 2”
Wedge height: 5”
Materials: leather, rubber sole
Colors: cognac brown
Best for: pairing with your go-to miniskirts and cropped knits for a modern cool-girl vibe
Pros: They can be worn as actual hiking boots or just for a fashion statement

Miu Miu’s hiking boots are what every fashion lover needs in their wardrobe. These cognac chunky platforms are both sporty and stylish. They’re fixed with a lace-up front and a padded ankle to provide supreme comfort. These are a great investment for those who like to hike, so you can wear them for more than one activity if you need further reasons to justify this splurge. These boots run large so try sizing down one full size.

Ugg Classic Ultra Mini Braid Platform Boots

Best Platform Snow Boots

Sizes: 5-12, whole sizes
Platform height: 2”
Materials: 17mm UGGplush™ 60% upcycled wool, 40% lyocell lining
Colors: chestnut, black, burnt olive
Best for: wearing in the snow and looking incredibly chic
Pros: The sugarcane in our SugarSole™ foam allows us to reduce dependency on fossil fuels by replacing petroleum-based ethylene, absorbing 1.6 pounds of CO2 for every pound of ethylene replaced.

Undoubtedly, one of the biggest It items of this winter (and fall) has been the Ugg Ultra Mini Platform Boots. It was the item everyone had on their wish list but was virtually impossible to find once they went mainstream. Thankfully, Ugg introduced an embellished version called the Braid Platform Boots, which were just spotted on Elsa Hosk. These boots have the 2-inch platform and fur lining that shoppers know and love, as well as the UGGbraid pattern and overlock stitch details. Style them with a mini skirt nad polo sweater a la Hosk or with leggings and a sweatshirt for a more casual approach.

Valentino Garavani Tan-Go Leather Platform Ankle Boots

Best Platform High-Heeled Boots Of the Season

Sizes: 5-12, including half sizes
Heel height: 5”
Platform height: 2”
Materials: leather
Colors: dark brown
Best for: pairing with your favorite pant suit
Pros: has an almond-toe which will give the illusion of accentuating your leg length

Valentino Garavani brings platform shoes to new heights. They have mastered this category of shoe season after season. This almond-toe platform-heeled bootie will accentuate your leg and give every look a polished finishing touch whether you’re heading from the office to a gallery opening or having a date night. Pair them with a cozy cashmere snood, chunky knit dress, and your go-to parka for those days that are extra cold this winter.

Larroude Biba Boot

Best Tall White Platform Boots

Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
Heel height: 4.5”
Platform height: 1.5”
Materials: Kid Skin leather
Colors: ivory
Best for: your tweed two-piece set or bold printed long sleeve dress
Pros: has a rounded almond-toe which will give the illusion of slimming your foot and leg

Larroude’s Bibba Boot is a 70s-inspired knee-high with a wide-calf design that allows you to pull them on and off easily. They also come fixed with a block heel, so they’re extremely comfortable and look great with your favorite evening dress or a cropped wide-leg jean, a white tee, and oversized corduroy double-breasted blazer. These come with a thicker platform sole that’s raised so they won’t get easily scratched while walking on uneven surfaces.

Gia Borghini Gia 16 Leather Knee-High Platform Boots

Best Colored Knee-High Platform Boots

Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
Heel height: 5”
Platform height: 2”
Shaft height: 5”
Shaft width: 5”
Materials: leather
Colors: pea green
Best for: a short skirt and oversized blazer to show off the full length of the boots
Pros: These will make you stand out in a crowd for all the right reasons

These are crafted from supple leather and are incredibly comfortable. They run slightly large, so it’s recommended to size a half size down. Pair with your favorite flowy knee-length skirt and cropped leather or denim jacket. These look great in the city or the countryside and will keep you dry in any precipitation.

Versace Medusa Aevitas Platform Booties

Best Party Platform Boots

Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
Heel height: 6.5”
Materials: Calf leather
Colors: black
Best for: a night out
Pros: these are the best boots to go dancing in because they’re comfortable and very festive

Versace’s Medusa Aevitas have a skin-tight fit around the ankle with three thin buckles to hold your foot securely all night long on the dance floor. The pointed toe adds a hint of sophistication to your look and pairs incredibly with velvet, sequins, crystals, and fringe. These boots will take your look to the next level this holiday party circuit season.

Schutz Aberdeen Buckle Platform Ankle Boots

Coolest Platform Boots

Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
Heel height: 5.5”
Materials: faux leather
Colors: black
Best for: a bold all black leather look
Pros: these are a work of art that will be well worth the investment

Schutz’s Aberdeen Buckle Platform Boots are set on a statement heel and platform sole, highlighting the brand’s love of playing with proportions. They have a vegan leather silhouette that adds a serious edge to every look. The hidden inner zipper will help you easily put these on and take them off at the end of a long day. The top buckle detailing, coupled with the mega-platform sole, together creates a sculptural element that’s entirely unique. Best of all? Emma Roberts was just spotted wearing them at Saks Fifth Avenue’s New York Fashion Week party.

Ugg Neumel Platform Boots

Best Ugg Platform Boots

Sizes: 5-10, whole sizes
Heel height: 2”
Sole height: 2”
Materials: recycled polyester, wool and lyocell, rubber sole, leather
Colors: black, white, Forest Night
Best for: wearing to and from Pilates class
Pros: these will be so hard to take off due to the extreme comfort factor

Ugg’s Neumel Chelsea boots come with an inner recycled wool lining that will keep your feet warm in the cold months, cool in the hot months, and dry year-round. The ankle-length platform gives you added height, and the double pull-tab at the opening helps you to easily slip them on and off. The rounded toe gives the illusion of slimming your foot and leg. The all-black embossed logo on the side is subtle, so if you’re not into logos and branding, these are a great boot to add to your rotation.

Chloé Maxi Shearling Platform Ankle Boots

Best Moccasin Platform Boot

Sizes:5-10.5, including half sizes
Heel height: 6”
Platform height: 1”
Boot height:9”
Materials: shearling
Colors: tan
Best for: a cozy, minimal look
Pros: these are a great indoor and outdoor boot to elevate every look

Chloé’s chic, minimal, shearling platform boot is incredibly versatile. The subtle heel logo patch, white top stitching, and brown leather trim look gorgeous when paired with your go-to winter white pieces or your autumnal pieces. These will elevate your matching cashmere set or your tailored suiting. The Maxi boots are a seasonless and timeless shoe option, making them worth every penny.

Bottega Veneta Platform The Puddle Boots

Best Biodegradable Platform Boots

Sizes: 5-10.5, including half sizes
Heel height: 8”
Platform height:4”
Boot height:9”
Materials: Biodegradable waterproof polymer rubber
Colors: Grass, Luce
Best for: every form of precipitation
Pros: These are a great sustainable biodegradable boot

Bottega Veneta’s green Puddle boots have a slight platform while combining a classic Chelsea boot and a traditional Wellington boot. Crafted in Italy from a biodegradable rubber polymer and finished with a bonded-cotton inner lining, clunky sole, and sculptural edges. These are a closet staple and will look great with a skirt suit to the office or denim crop-flare jeans and your classic trench coat to brunch with the girlfriends. This green hue is a great fun, and modern alternative to black or brown boots.

AGL Tiggy High Heel Booties

Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes
Heel height: 4”
Platform height:1”
Materials: calf leather and rubber
Best for: casual dinners with friends
Pros: Ridged sole for excellent traction

If you’re looking for a casual and comfortable boot, look no further than AGL’s Tiggy High Heel Boot. Since 1958, AGL has been at the forefront of contemporary fashion, with its Italian leather footwear selection leading the way. The Tiggy silhouette has a look that exudes effortlessness. It features a complete calf leather upper with a back zipper for easy on-and-off access as well as a ridged sole that gives the boot character.

Staud Palamino Platform Booties

Sizes: 35-42
Heel height: 2.25”
Platform height: 1.75”
Materials: goatskin leather
Best for: a concert
Pros: pull tab and elastic gores

Staud’s surprisingly lightweight platforms are bound to become your new everyday option. The round-toe design looks great when paired with everything from slacks to mini skirts, but what sets the shoe apart is the patent leather finish. This shiny material, with a platform that sits at one height, adds a grungy finish to any type of outfit.

Melissa x Undercover Spikes Platform Boot

Sizes: 5-10
Heel height: 2”
Platform height: 1.5”
Materials: MELFLEX™ PVC, rubbber
Colors: Black, green
Best for: the maximalist dresser
Pros: Signature tutti-frutti scented PVC

Japanese brand UNDERCOVER has joined forces with Gen Z-favorite Melissa with a futuristic footwear drop that includes the Spikes Plaform Boot. The shoes are crafted from 100 percent recycled fruit-scented PVC, Melflex, that’s flexible and durable. They feature a back lace-up style, pull tabs, a chunky lug-sole, and spikes which are a recurring theme of the collection. Wear them on rainy days or take them out when running errands on weekends.

Azalea Wang Eureva Platform Over the Knee Boot

Sizes: 6-12
Heel height: 2″
Materials: faux leather and rubber
Best for: wearing with dresses or skirts
Pros: Runs true to size

Embracing the platform trend doesn’t always mean opting for the highest pair on the market. Azaela Wang’s over-the-knee boots are proof. Unlike the other styles on this list, they have a short lug-sole and a not-so-steep arch, making them much more manageable for casual wear. The standout quality of this boot lies in the stretch faux leather, which you can wear thigh-high as a second skin or pulled down to bring a ruched effect to your outfit.

What reviewers say: “You will not be disappointed with these boots. They are sexy and comfortable. I wear these with shorts, tights, fishnets etc. Highly recommend. I wear a 7.5 and got a 7.5.”

How to Style Platform Boots: Best Platform Boots Outfit Ideas

Platforms have been spotted on the runways as well as on influencers and celebrities for the last few seasons. Especially the current fall/winter 2023 season has been chock-full of platform boots. For example, designers like Dion Lee, who showed scrunched platform boots, Rick Owns, who had an updated version of Owens’ Strobe pull-on platform boots and even Thom Browne, who delivered platforms with clocks as heels, proved that the platform boot isn’t dwindling anytime soon. So whether you’re after some serious height or just like to march to the beat of your drum when it comes to style, this is a boot trend with endless options.

Platform boots with jeans: Why do we love jeans? They’re versatile. Thus, platforms and jeans are an undeniable match made in heaven. You can wear your platform boots with all denim pants — baggy jeans, skinny jeans, straight-leg jeans, and wide-leg jeans — in all different ways. When working with loose, relaxed denim, style them over the boots with a bodysuit, belt, and bomber jacket. For fitted jeans, pair them with a T-shirt and an oversized blazer.
Platform boots with dresses: Slip dresses, sweater dresses, and lightweight flowy frocks are all foolproof pieces that lend themselves to layering and, of course, wearing with platform boots. These thick-soled shoes deliver an effortlessly chic juxtaposition that sneakers, loafers, and clogs can’t supply. If the grungy platform boots don’t feel right for styling with your dress, try hiking-inspired boots with a pumped-up sole instead. These are just as trendy, but the gorpcore spin feels much more of the moment and approachable.
Platform boots with skirts: No matter if you frequent mini over midi skirts or vice versa, there are many ways to style platform boots with skirts. For mini skirts, look at a platform boot with an ankle-length silhouette. During the winter, complete your outfit with a sock to keep the feet warm while still giving off an alluring vibe that everyone can’t help but notice. For maxi and midi skirts, opt for knee-high or over-the-knee boots.
Platform boots with trousers: Whether throwing on tailored pants when heading to work or for brunch on the weekend, platform-heeled boots make a great addition to a business-casual look. The ideal way to nail this look is by stuffing the trousers into platform boots and pairing them with an oversized blazer and white T-shirt. This modern, fresh aesthetic allows one to show off their shoes and elevate their look. Plus, this is one of the most frequent outfit formulas we’ve seen on our favorite fashion tastemakers during fashion week.

What to Look For in the Best Platform Boots for Women

Just like your stylish loafers, most comfortable walking shoes, or your go-to winter boots, you expect your platform boots to check off all the important boxes, too — and rightfully so. Thus, with endless platform boots on the market, consider these factors before snagging a pair.

Platform height: The platform height is one essential element to consider. “Investing in platform boots means you’re probably looking for extra height with a comfort bonus! So, the boot’s pitch will be the most important consideration. Look for something that has the right balance between heel and platform height. On the other hand, you don’t want the platform to be too high either, as this can make it more difficult to walk comfortably,” suggests Jane Frances, founder and creative director of Dear Frances. Additionally, since the platform height and size can contribute to the shoe’s weight, you’ll want to make note of how much your feet can handle. As a general rule of thumb: the thicker the sole, the heavier it will be. So, if your feet don’t allow for dragging around heavy boots, opt for a platform boot with a height under 1 inch.
Fit/Design: Of course, other than the platform height being comfortable for your feet and legs, you should ensure the fit is best for your foot type and/or condition so you can walk in them easily. For example, if you have flat feet or plantar fasciitis, you’ll want to look for platform boots with a straight-across underfoot design and arch support. On the other hand, if you have high arches search for platform boots with soft and flexible soles to accommodate, absorb shock, and cushion.
Materials: If you’re going to invest in a women’s boot, you’ll want to ensure it lasts for many years. Therefore, look to materials like leather since it’s breathable, moisture absorbent, and durable. Additionally, leather is known to assume the shape of the wearer’s feet, providing individualized fit. This quality maximizes comfort and minimizes foot disorders. Specifically, the types of leathers to opt for include calfskin, nubuck, patent leather, and suede later.

The Different Types of Women’s Platform Boots — And How to Style Them

Lug Sole Platform Boots: These are an excellent option for those who want a boot with serious versatility. You can wear this style with jeans, denim maxi skirts, or your favorite trousers and cozy knits. They’re a great transitional boot to take you from one season into the next. These come in canvas, leather, suedes, and often, sustainable and even biodegradable materials, as we see at Bottega Veneta this season. This style has been spotted hitting the city pavement on countless celebs, from Gigi Hadid, Kaia Gerber, and Hailey Bieber, to Hilary Duff, who’s been photographed innumerable times while wearing her Proenza Schouler canvas platform boots. Known for comfort and durability for whatever weather the sky might have in its forecast, you can rest assured you’ll look great and stay dry.
High-Vamp Platform Boots: These are a sexy option for those who also want something a bit more polished. Nicola Peltz Beckham, Camila Cabello, and Jessica Simpson love this style and have been spotted in countless versions, from patent leather, suede, and bold colors to statement-making animal prints. These look incredible with flowy dresses, miniskirts paired with preppy form-fitting knits, oversized trousers, or even wide-leg jeans and a T-shirt combo. What’s great about this style is you can wear a high-vamp platform boot day or night and completely transform your look by either playing up their drama or pairing it down. Pair them with contrasting colors, animal prints, and sculptural silhouettes to add to their drama. Pair with pieces in similar colorways to subdue your look for a chic, monochromatic look.
Y2K-Grunge Platform Boots: Thanks largely to Marc Jacobs, Rick Owens, and Alexander McQueen, this is a style we first saw in the 90s and early aughts. Hitting the runways and the city streets, the grunge platform boot is a way to let your inner rebel shine. Wear with oversized low-rise denim, cropped sweaters, oversized button-downs, baby doll T-shirts, and pillowy accessories. Megan Fox, Kourtney Kardashian, and Kate Beckinsale are big fans of this boot style. They come in lace-up versions with sky-high heels, adorned with buckles and studs, and will look great with sheer tights, short leather minis, and your favorite vintage T-shirts and oversized cardigans as well this holiday season. It’s important to remember you can have fun with your footwear because there are countless styles to choose from, such as plain leather or high-shine versions.
Classic Ankle Platform Boots: When shopping for boots, the only rule is that there are no rules — if you stay true to your style. A classic ankle platform boot is the way to go if you want a platform boot that will transcend seasons and work with almost every outfit. From Ugg’s low-key options to the Row’s, every designer on the runway and off has their own iteration of this trend. The classic boot pairs seamlessly with athleisure pieces, jeans, and a T-shirt, to a flowy slip dress and an oversized sweater. Opt for a solid colorway with minimal embellishments if you’re looking for something that won’t stand out. These come in suedes, leather, and shiny patent leather, with shearling finishes to satin laces.

Meet the Author

Elana Zajdman is a freelance editor, writer, stylist, and brand consultant who covers all things accessories and jewelry. Based between New York and Paris, her bylines have appeared in InStyle, Marie Claire, Vogue.com, WWD, Natural Diamond Council, and Footwear News. Elana was the senior accessories and jewelry editor of InStyle magazine for six years, and prior to that she was the accessories editor at Marie Claire and fashion market associate at Vogue.com. You can follow Elana on Instagram at @ElanaZajdman.

Nikki Chwatt is Style Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD, where she both writes and edits stories on the latest clothing and shoe trends. When she’s not researching the latest footwear trends and shoe styles, Chwatt can be found organizing her vast collection of women’s boots. Chwatt has updated this story.

Meet the Expert

Jane Frances is the founder and creative director at Dear Frances footwear. Crafted by hand in Italy using ancient techniques that have been handed down through generations of expertly skilled artisan shoemakers. Spotted on some of Hollywood’s elite, including Margot Robbie, and supermodels like Gigi Hadid and Kaia Gerber, these have a cult following, and for good reason. The brand has been featured in publications including The Wall Street Journal, Vogue, InStyle, The New York Times, and many more. You can follow Dear Frances on Instagram at @Dear_Frances.

For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items. If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, we may receive an affiliate commission.

1. Timberland Camdale Boot

These boots feature a suede upper with textured rubber soles and a padded collar around the shoe for a boost of plushness.

Pros: They also have a three-inch block heel and Ortholite insoles to keep your foot comfortable all day long.

Cons: The boots tend to run on the narrow side, so size up if you’re between sizes or have wider feet.

2. Dr. Martens Kendra Boot

This soft leather lace-up style features air-cushioned insoles and slip-resistant rubber-tread lug soles. The shoes also feature a 4-inch heel along with a 1-inch platform, contrast stitching and the brand’s signature heel loop for a classically cool look.

Pros: These shoes are made to be durable through the cold, rain and mud. Thanks to their versatility and timeless design, these boots are made to last for years to come.

Cons: They’re not available in half sizes, so make sure to order on the larger side if your feet are between sizes.

3. Jeffrey Campbell Legion Booties

The boots have a patent leather upper, a lug sole and a stacked block heel. The heel measure 4.25 inches with a .75-inch platform, and the shoes come with pairs of both black and white laces.

Pros: The gripped soles are designed to prevent slippage.

Cons: The heels are on the higher side, so make sure to break them in before walking long distances in the boots.

Source link