Obsession du Jour: Wooden Platforms
As Samuel Johnson sort of said, when a woman is tired of shoes, she must be tired of life. If that's true, we’re going to live to be super-centenarians, as we simply never get footwear fatigue. The latest style to make our hearts race—wooden platforms—also happens to be one of the most inclusive and adaptable shoe trends for spring. We kid you not: regardless of whether you like 'em sleek or strappy, flush to the ground or fantastically tall, there's a perfect pair (at an ideal price) out there, just waiting for to become your Obsession du Jour too!
We first got giddy about wooden platforms when we spotted a few devastatingly good pairs on the spring runways. At Gucci, Frida Giannini paired ankle-strap sandals (similar to the Palmas Platform
($635), available in gold at Saks) with slouchy skinny trousers, which were cuffed above the ankle to show off the shoes! Ralph Lauren also sent out sky-high wooden heels, like the Pasha Crisscross
($675), worn with everything from billowy harem pants to crisp khaki shorts.
In addition to these slim versions, we also like a chunkier platform, heel, or wedge, like the shoe-boot Mischa Barton wore while shopping in New York during Fashion Week. Of these three styles, note that the wedge is particularly practical for spring and summer: they're ideal for daytime weddings (or outdoor events, as you won't sink into grass!) and the wider base means better balance (crucial for the highest heels). But no matter what style you select, there are options galore, so go ahead and get excited!
Marni Platform Sandal ($846)
Our first pair of platforms is also the most directional and futuristic of the group. The contrast of the blonde wood heel against a glossy black platform looks new and neat, while the unexpected pink leather straps add another pop of interest to this architectural shoe.
Steve Madden Quinella Wedge
($90)
If you’re looking for an updated seventies-style platform wedge, we'd like to suggest Steve Madden's Quinella. The tan leather version, shown here, is nicely neutral, while the black option makes a more dramatic statement. Either shade will make for an excellent match with either a pair of boyfriend jeans or a floaty summer dresses.
Frye Dara Wooden Platform Sandal
($188)
Though totally different in style, there's something about this Frye slingback that reminds us of Mischa Barton's footwear choice. Perhaps it's the sturdy construction, or maybe it's the no-nonsense black leather clog-like style, but the resemblance is definitely there! Try them with your favorite wide-leg jeans; they’ll look so cute peeping out under the hem.
Miu Miu Printed Slingback Sandal
($445)
Each season, we invariably fall for a pair or two of Miu Miu shoes, and this spring's no exception. Right now, we're mad about these mega-heels (they're a whopping six-inches tall, with a one-and-a-half inch platform in front). The pseudo-croc stamped leather is refined and luxurious, while a smattering of silver studs add a little toughness.
Nine West Rusty Wedge
($89)
Tapered trousers simply cry out for a pair of statement shoes like these brilliant blue Nine West wedges. In addition to their unbeatable price, the combination of the four-inch heel, double buckles at the ankle, and braid embellishment at the toe ensures that this is one memorable shoe.
Loeffler Randall Poppy Perforated Wooden Platform Sandals
($595)
Perforated leather is swiftly becoming one of the season's hottest looks, as it adds a subtle eighties-edge to any accessory. Loeffler Randall's Poppy Platform offers a spot-on way to wear this trend in a chic way. The modern mesh-like upper contrasts with the blonde wood heel perfectly, resulting in the seamless fusion of au courant and classic style.
Cynthia Vincent Serena Sandal
($275)
Our final wooden platform just might be our most intelligent selection. The gold grommets add a certain of-the-moment flair while the multi-strap style offers a slight (yet much needed) update to the ubiquitous gladiator sandal. Additionally, the small wedge is high enough to appeal to flats-adverse readers, yet small enough to appeal to the heel-haters out there. Who knew compromise could look so good?
Photo of Mischa Barton, INF.
We first got giddy about wooden platforms when we spotted a few devastatingly good pairs on the spring runways. At Gucci, Frida Giannini paired ankle-strap sandals (similar to the Palmas Platform
In addition to these slim versions, we also like a chunkier platform, heel, or wedge, like the shoe-boot Mischa Barton wore while shopping in New York during Fashion Week. Of these three styles, note that the wedge is particularly practical for spring and summer: they're ideal for daytime weddings (or outdoor events, as you won't sink into grass!) and the wider base means better balance (crucial for the highest heels). But no matter what style you select, there are options galore, so go ahead and get excited!
Marni Platform Sandal ($846)
Our first pair of platforms is also the most directional and futuristic of the group. The contrast of the blonde wood heel against a glossy black platform looks new and neat, while the unexpected pink leather straps add another pop of interest to this architectural shoe.
Steve Madden Quinella Wedge
If you’re looking for an updated seventies-style platform wedge, we'd like to suggest Steve Madden's Quinella. The tan leather version, shown here, is nicely neutral, while the black option makes a more dramatic statement. Either shade will make for an excellent match with either a pair of boyfriend jeans or a floaty summer dresses.
Frye Dara Wooden Platform Sandal
Though totally different in style, there's something about this Frye slingback that reminds us of Mischa Barton's footwear choice. Perhaps it's the sturdy construction, or maybe it's the no-nonsense black leather clog-like style, but the resemblance is definitely there! Try them with your favorite wide-leg jeans; they’ll look so cute peeping out under the hem.
Miu Miu Printed Slingback Sandal
Each season, we invariably fall for a pair or two of Miu Miu shoes, and this spring's no exception. Right now, we're mad about these mega-heels (they're a whopping six-inches tall, with a one-and-a-half inch platform in front). The pseudo-croc stamped leather is refined and luxurious, while a smattering of silver studs add a little toughness.
Nine West Rusty Wedge
Tapered trousers simply cry out for a pair of statement shoes like these brilliant blue Nine West wedges. In addition to their unbeatable price, the combination of the four-inch heel, double buckles at the ankle, and braid embellishment at the toe ensures that this is one memorable shoe.
Loeffler Randall Poppy Perforated Wooden Platform Sandals
Perforated leather is swiftly becoming one of the season's hottest looks, as it adds a subtle eighties-edge to any accessory. Loeffler Randall's Poppy Platform offers a spot-on way to wear this trend in a chic way. The modern mesh-like upper contrasts with the blonde wood heel perfectly, resulting in the seamless fusion of au courant and classic style.
Cynthia Vincent Serena Sandal
Our final wooden platform just might be our most intelligent selection. The gold grommets add a certain of-the-moment flair while the multi-strap style offers a slight (yet much needed) update to the ubiquitous gladiator sandal. Additionally, the small wedge is high enough to appeal to flats-adverse readers, yet small enough to appeal to the heel-haters out there. Who knew compromise could look so good?
Photo of Mischa Barton, INF.
I've always liked this trend & I have TONS of wooden heels, but they are the most UNCOMFORTABLE shoes!
Posted by: Britni | 2009-03-14 09:43:52
The Gucci heels with the tangerine patent leather are the real star here. So lovely! This is one of the hottest spring colors IOHO (much like the color for our Moroccan Coral Bracelet: http://www.tinatang.com/bracelets/stone/brac_126cor.html btw) and looks good with any skin tone!
Posted by: TheTinaTangCrew | 2009-03-13 14:23:12
http://lapetiteloulou.blogspot.com/
Posted by: la petite lou'l | 2009-03-12 15:46:35
I love the steven madden platforms! I would wear them in the middle of summer with a light,white,casual dress and a straw hat, a colourful,silk scarf and a bright sun tanning my skin!
Posted by: la petite lou'l | 2009-03-12 15:46:01
OMG! These Shoes are just gorgeous! Love them! xoxo www.telishah.blogspot.com
Posted by: Telishah | 2009-03-11 09:48:17
This trend always comes back, and I'm never actually that won over by it. Most importantly, I completely agree with Elizabeth. Mischa's fur is tacky, and unethical. For a woman who champions the 'hippie-chic' lifestyle, its quite odd that she would wear a dead animal on her body. This isn't a crusade against fashion, its an understanding that we live in a period where driving hummers is considered tasteless, we purchase canvas totes to put our groceries in, etc. So surely, we must all acknowledge that wearing fur is completely at odds with that. Please dont post any more pictures with fur-clad women. :)
Posted by: Alexa | 2009-03-09 19:56:53
I NEED NEED NEED those Marni sandals. Oh my good god. exquisillusiore.blogspot.com exquisillusiore.blogspot.com exquisillusiore.blogspot.com exquisillusiore.blogspot.com
Posted by: Hadley | 2009-03-09 18:13:03
loveeeeeeeeeeee the Marnis and Miu Mius. These are gorgeous, a great spring shoe.
Posted by: bronchit | 2009-03-09 17:46:31
I love wooden heels! I just bought a pair and I'm addicted to it! Su
Posted by: The Stiletto Ef | 2009-03-09 16:58:07
I would die for the Marnis and kill for the red Guccis... Any tips for finding these beauts at a better price?? www.ohioverticals.com/blogs/style
Posted by: Jane | 2009-03-09 16:21:17
Love the Nine West. Thanks for the tip!!! It is hard to find wood that doesn't look cheap. www.fashionintel.com
Posted by: Fashion Intel | 2009-03-09 15:49:01
MY, MY, MY Marni, Marni, Marni!!!! I am sooo inspired like (RED).. I agree with Erock below, I would sell body parts for the Gucci and Marnis' I am sooo happy for Spring and Gucci definitely did it up this Spring Hooray! The Ralphies and Miu Miu are cool but My, My, My Marni Marni Marni.. I LOVE MARNI!! BTW Mischas' shoes are nice too..
Posted by: The Illustrious | 2009-03-09 15:45:58
you forgot the bottage veneta Woven leather sandals which are gorgeous! http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/38593
Posted by: julia | 2009-03-09 15:45:02
i need those marni platforms!
Posted by: N | 2009-03-09 15:31:52
Spring can't come fast enough.
Posted by: LuLu W-L | 2009-03-09 14:40:12
love. i already have wooden platforms!
Posted by: Amber | 2009-03-09 13:28:45
I love the Ralph Lauren ones. Those are just amazing. I think I'll buy these kinds from Nine West (not the ones shown though).
Posted by: Carla | 2009-03-09 12:25:09
Enough with the fur already. Please stop putting fur in your posts. It is not chic and it's not compassionate. On another note, I do like Mischa's shoes. Does anyone know who makes these? They look very Costume National.
Posted by: Elizabeth | 2009-03-09 11:41:55
Mischa looks like a sad clown in that photo.
Posted by: a | 2009-03-09 09:30:12
I love the red Guccis! And Mischa looks terrible! She looks like she is really feeling the difference between being thin and being healthy.
Posted by: MEP | 2009-03-09 09:06:00
i happen to think that the Ralph Lauren platforms are the best. l o v e. come see me- http://noirblancetrougepartout.blogspot.com
Posted by: s | 2009-03-09 07:56:40
Oh, and might I add.. Mischa Barton looks great in that photo. I almost didn't recognize her. She looks like a very chic European young woman.
Posted by: fashi0nlover | 2009-03-09 07:55:17
This is really not helping my shoe obsession...! Thank goodness I already have a pair of wooden platforms (but of course now I want more)!
Posted by: fashi0nlover | 2009-03-09 07:54:01
I would sell my kidney for the patent Guccis.
Posted by: Erock | 2009-03-09 05:51:26
oh yes please! i really love the last brown and black pairs!! just fabulous :) love LM xxxxx
Posted by: Love More | 2009-03-09 03:43:15