While the Barbie of 2022 may be known to favor a pair of sensible flats or sneakers, the Barbie of my youth—or Polly Pocket, if that was more your thing—was infamous for her high heels, most often of the platform variety. Remember the whole Barbie feet craze? Well, the feet were a byproduct of the footwear. Thus, when I recently noticed an eerily familiar shoe trend surfacing both on all my go-to shopping sites as well as Instagram, it took me all but a few seconds to realize where I knew it from.
That’s right, whether you’re ready or not, ‘90s-style platform mules are back and, in my opinion, better than ever. Think of them as the trend you didn’t know you needed. Not only are they a refreshingly fun option for spring and summer, but thanks to their design are inherently comfortable, and flattering both in photos and IRL. Plus, they go with everything from dresses and skirts to jeans and trousers, so you don’t have to worry about what to pair them with if (and when) you snag a pair. To see how some of our favorite fashion people are already styling them, plus shop a range of platform mules for every taste and budget, simply keep scrolling.
You get the shoes and the outfit inspo.
Naturally, Revolve is a hub for this trend.
It's not a thing if Reformation isn't on board.
Elegant.
I own these and can personally attest to how cute they are.
You knew Staud would get this one right.
I love scoring a new trend on sale.
Your new go-to summer shoes.
Who can say no to this color?
Taking notes on the anklet pairing.
Go big or go home?
This highly-reviewed pair comes in 14 colors, so there's truly one for everybody.
I love the idea of these paired with a miniskirt.
This trend was made for a designer like Amina Muaddi.
I loved these even before I saw all the amazing Nordstrom reviews.
Tackle two trends in one with this bright pink pair.
These have a '70s vibe that I love.
I bet these are so comfortable.
Next: The 34 best things my mom, sisters, and I have bought from Nordstrom lately.
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in EuropeClassic looks that are always in style.
-
3 Non-Holiday Ways to Wear Velvet This WinterYou're welcome.
-
Hailey Bieber Just Used the TikTok Styling Hack That Will Actually Go the DistanceI'm going to use it this weekend.
-
After 15 Years as a Fashion Writer, I Know These Free Style Tweaks Will Make a Big ImpactHow to give your wardrobe a new lease on life.
-
4 Dated Sweater Trends I'm Purging From My Small NYC Closet by the Year's EndAnd the chic knitwear I'm making room for.
-
Law Roach's World: His New Book, Bag of Choice, and What He Grabs on a Target Run"[Styling] has made my world so much bigger."
-
I'm in My 20s—Here Are 6 Style Lessons I Learned to Look More Polished and Grown-UpSophisticated styling 101.
-
8 Copenhagen Street Style Trends I Plan to Replicate in New YorkPared back yet never boring.
