The Controversial Shoe Trend That's Suddenly Everywhere

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(Image credit: @fakerstrom)

This summer, sandals have one main thing in common: platform bottoms. While platform shoes might immediately conjure a ’70s high heel destined for an elaborate party, the ones we’re seeing right now are a whole new take on the throwback shoes. This time around, designers are using everything from flip-flops to sporty utility sandals as a starting point but updating them with thick, cushioned soles. With a return to comfort, it’s no surprise that the shoe style has taken off since they’re equal parts practical and chic.

While the shoes aren’t universally loved, the controversial platforms have taken off as one of the biggest trends of the season. Paired with everything from long, flowy dresses to Bermuda shorts to colorful, printed socks and denim, the versatile sandals are the piece you’ll spot in every fashion person’s closet. Here, find some inspiration for how to wear the trend.

Flip-Flops

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(Image credit: @alexisforeman)

Flip-flops seem to get a makeover each summer, and this time around, platforms are the fashion person–approved favorite.

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(Image credit: @monikh)

This style from The Row is sold out practically everywhere.

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(Image credit: @oumaymaboumeshouli)

More proof that the platform flip-flop is one of the most coveted shoes this summer.

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(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

I love the contrasting colors of this black and white pair

Sporty

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(Image credit: @aemiliafay)

These Chanel leather sport sandals are practically defining summer 2020 style.

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(Image credit: @slipintostyle)

Go for the OG version with a pair from Teva.

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(Image credit: @fakerstrom)

I want to repeat this entire outfit immediately.

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(Image credit: @emilisindlev)

Where comfort meets cool.

Slides

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(Image credit: @chainkyr)

These Proenza Schouler x Birkenstock shoes are topping my shopping list.

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(Image credit: @jen_wonders)

Slides in platform versions are also popping up everywhere.

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(Image credit: @champagnemani)

They’re the perfect pairing to a slip dress.

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(Image credit: @llouloudesaison)

But look equally chic with a pair of Bermuda shorts.

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(Image credit: @sasha.mei)

Ready to swap out your heels yet?

Strappy

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(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

Finally, strappy sandals are another take on the trend, including this subtle platform.

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(Image credit: @atpatelie)

Where comfort meets chic.

Next, see the 25 cool fashion finds I’m obsessing over right now.

Associate Director, Special Projects

Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury content and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, MyTheresa, and Luisa Via Roma, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Before Who What Wear, Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on assistant styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.