The platform shoes trend you want to be part of

You have to be of a certain age to remember the shock of platform shoes the first time around. Since then, they’ve made regular returns to the runway, so nowadays anyone upwards of babes in arms is familiar with them. And even those littlest ones can inform themselves this spring, because here they come, trending once more for 2015.

So it looks like the seventies are back, with stacked heels and chunky soles. Hedi Slimane’s outsize footwear glittered at Saint Laurent, with gold teamed with animal print heels. Prada placed pretty socks within platform sandals, and Tom Ford got the disco bug. Rick Owen hewed shoes from wood, or discarded nature for a metallic hue, while Calvin Klein matched dark shiny uppers with clear perspex heels. Marchesa’s shoes were encrusted in jewels and shells, but Victoria Beckham rescued taste (for those who want it) with classic black and discreet details.

If staying upright worries you, flatforms are the answer, and you’ll have plenty of choice in a variety of styles and design, including the boho creations of Michael Kors. Think flats and think edgy, and you’ve got it. And you’d be in the good company of Miley Cyrus, Suki Waterhouse, Kate Bosworth and Willow Smith, just for a start.

But how do you wear platforms without looking like a throwback? Team them with ripped skinnies, a leather biker and clunky jewellery, or make a pleasing contrast with a lacy dress. Pull an oversized sweater over a mini skirt and opaque tights, or drag on a faux fur and leather pants. Pair with a heavier fabric, such as tartan or camel. Go the other way for platform sandals with a leather mini or shorts, or balance the weight of the shoes with a wide floppy hat.

Match white platforms with a jacket in the same colour. Mix textures for a punk look, or borrow a plaid shirt from grunge for a mish mash of styles. Denim has to get a look in here, of course – style it as a topper over a Breton, and add a beanie.

Wear platform sneakers with sporty gear, and check out wedges care of Derek Lam, John Galliano and Miu Miu, for example. Now is the time to dress around your platform shoes. Worked properly, this is a trend for all year round – you just need to get it right. And we have total confidence in you!