Channel Your Inner Lizzie McGuire With Our Favorite Platform Shoes

Platform shoes, and especially platform heels, came back into our fashion stratosphere a couple of years back, but it seems that the ’90s and Y2K trend is here to stay for good. And if there’s one thing we believe when it comes to platform shoes, it’s that the chunkier and quirkier, the better, no matter the occasion. There is hardly a season or reason you can’t don these height-boosting shoes. From platform sneakers and Mary Janes to platform sandals and flip flops, there’s an abundance of perfectly perched platform shoes to pick from across several styles, colors, and budgets.

The best platform shoes are also a surefire outfit upgrade. They’re mainstream enough that you won’t get looked at twice for wearing them (if you don’t like the attention, of course), yet niche enough that you’re bound to feel bold in them and gain compliments from fellow nostalgia lovers. Whether you’re looking to snatch up the best platform heels for your next wedding party, retro platform clogs that are actually comfortable to walk in, or platform thong flip flops to channel Lizzie McGuire — a la her iconic cartoon persona — there’s plenty of options out there. So if you’re looking for a playful shoe to test out for the spring and summer, consider stepping into a pair of Spice Girl-approved stompers.

Best Platform Heels

You can choose whether you want to go tame with a pair of low, strappy platform heels or full-on disco fever with a pair of sky-high, chunky platform heels. And let me tell you, there’s no wrong way to go. Pick from Versace platform pump dupes or more summery open-toe heels depending on whether you want an occasion or everyday shoe.

Best Platform Sneakers

Like I said, if you want to feel like Scary Spice on a regular basis, then a pair of platform sneakers will serve you well. From ultra-high styles like these Steve Madden sneakers to more subtle “lugged” styles from Converse, the stacked shoes are not your typical kicks. However, they are wearable (people wear these, I swear!), comfortable, and supportive.

Best Platform Sandals

I don’t know what it is about platform sandals, but I have a soft spot for them. They are just so whimsical and plush, and now that I think about it, remind me of Polly Pocket and Barbie shoes. Cushioned, chunky sandals are perfect for testing the waters if you’re just starting your platform shoe journey. Choose from thick bands or straps, and start strutting.

Best Platform Mary Janes & Close-Toed Shoes

According to our friends at Refinery29 UK, Mary Janes are thee shoe of 2023. They’re so versatile that you could wear them from the office to a dinner date without feeling out of place. Mary Janes are also trending for their platform variations. But if this style isn’t for you, I’ve compiled other closed-toe platform shoes too (think: loafers, espadrilles, mules, and clogs).

Best Platform Flip Flops

Alright, iconic Disney character Lizzie McGuire was a fashion inspiration to many of us, and her cartoon alter-ego was no different in her bright orange platform flip flops. And you guessed it, platform flip-flops are also back. Now you can find super playful, casual options as well as more elevated, evening-acceptable styles.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

42 Trending Wedding Guest Dress Styles

We Found 27 Pairs Of The Best Chunky Loafers

Nostalgic & Multi-Season Denim Maxi Skirts

Coach’s New Sister Brand Is All About Circularity

With nearly 100 years in fashion, Coach has amassed thousands of fashion goods. Now, the brand is rethinking its production cycle with a new sister line, Coachtopia. On Thursday, Coach announced the launch of the sub-brand that will put circularity and upcycling at the center of its mission, and giving a new spin to some of the brand’s staples.

“It’s a bigger, bolder step forward in realizing our vision for sustainability at Coach, where we prioritize experimenting and learning, and ethical design intentions over cookie cutter perfection,” said Coach designer Stuart Vevers in a press release. 

With the new offering, which includes accessories, handbags, and ready-to-wear, the brand’s signature pieces — a staple of ’90s and Y2K fashion trends— are getting a refresh. Shoulder and belt bags, for example, are transformed from monogram prints and neutral shades to bright blue, yellow, and green colorways, as well as mushroom and checkered prints with interchangeable chain and leather straps. The nostalgia continues with some of today’s TikTok-approved trends, from patchwork denim mini skirts and bucket bags to quirky hair clips and psychedelic graphic tees.

As part of the efforts, the line will use upcycled materials, with leathers sourced from Coach production waste or recycled leather scraps from tanneries. (According to a press release, the line will also use materials like recycled cotton, resin, and polyester, as well as bio-based sugarcane resin.)  Each product will also feature a digital chip that gives consumers transparency into the piece’s life cycle, as well as the materials it’s made with. The brand will also allow customers to trade Coachtopia products at any Coach store to find ways to repurpose them. 

Ergo Shoulder Bag in Coachtopia Leather, $250

“Circularity is about reimagining not just the product life cycle, but the relationship between brand, planet and consumer,” Joon Silverstein, senior vice president of global marketing, creative and sustainability at  Coach and Coachtopia, said via a press release. “We’re building it not just for our consumers, but with them.”

With that in mind, the brand is working with a pool of Gen Z creators and activists to design collaborative drops, as well as gather insights. The first result is the brand’s debut collection, in partnership with graphic designer and illustrator Sabrina Lau, who created artwork for the initial campaign and products, which range from flower-embellished shoulder and strawberry-printed bags. 

Over the past few years, Coach has experienced a resurgence amid the TikTok boom that’s opened its doors to a new generation of fashion fans. Thanks to handbags like the Coach Tabby Pillow bag, the brand’s popularity has skyrocketed, with searches for “coach pillow bag” generating over 230 million views on TikTok.

Wavy Dinky In Coachtopia Leather, $425

The first Coachtopia drop is now available on Coach.com in the US, Canada and UK, with prices ranging from $20 to $425. 

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Welcome To Slide Season — These Are The 18 Best Styles To Slip Into

Slides are a universal no-fuss shoe. They're favorites for their timeless style and everyday convenience, and we can't get enough of them. Since the weather is warming up and stuffy shoes are quietly stepping to the back to the closet, it's the best time to stock up on the breeziest sandals for daily wear and pool slides for upcoming vacations. We've also included a few investment slides for the quiet luxury shoppers.

We've got all your color and style preferences, from maximalist summer shades to minimalistic neutral hues. If you can't let go of your Nike slides, we've got a $40 lightweight padded shoe for you to try, and if you're looking for subtle Gucci slides without all the logos, there's a gorgeous leather emerald green pair. Ultimately, prepare to relax to the fullest with the best slides for women ahead.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

For more can't-miss shopping stories delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our Most Wanted newsletter.

Best Everyday Slides

The best daily slides deserve a designated spot right by the door. We've picked out versatile pairs, from the iconic Adidas Adilette Slides to FP Movement's cushy ones that come in a rainbow of colors.

Shop Nike

Nike Nike Offcourt Adjust, $, available at Nike

Shop FP Movement At Free People

FP Movement Halftime Slides, $, available at Free People

Shop Adidas At Amazon

Adidas Adilette Slide Sandal, $, available at Amazon

Shop American Eagle

American Eagle Yin Yang Terry Slide Sandal, $, available at American Eagle

Shop Lululemon

Lululemon Restfeel Women's Slide, $, available at Lululemon

Best Vacay Slides

When we say vacay slides, we mean the ones that can take you straight from the beach to a fancy dinner. Wear yours with a go-to swimsuit during the day and then style them with a tiered dress at night.


Shop Nisolo At Anthropologie

Nisolo Isla Woven Slide Sandals, $, available at Anthropologie

Shop J.Crew Factory

J.Crew Factory One-Strap Slide Sandals, $, available at J.Crew

Shop Saks Fifth Avenue At Saks Off 5th

Saks Fifth Avenue ​Sophie Crystal Buckle Slides, $, available at Saks OFF 5TH

Shop Larroudé At Nordstrom

Larroudé Athena Slide Sandal (Women), $, available at Nordstrom

Best Beach/Pool Slides

Beach slides are easy to wash pesky sand off of and provide ample support for the commute from hotel to beach to bar. Plus, they come in various playful shades for a fun day oceanside.

Shop Tory Burch At Nordstrom

Tory Burch Bubble Jelly Slide Sandal (Women), $, available at Nordstrom

Shop Reef

Reef Water Vista Slide, $, available at Reef

Shop Kate Spade

Kate Spade Surprise Brigitte Pool Slide, $, available at Kate Spade

Best Platform Slides

Opt for slides with a bit of height to them, and tap into the 2023 trend of platforms. The Y2K style is the reigning summer style.

Shop Sam Edelman At Nordstrom

Sam Edelman Ariane Platform Slide Sandal (Women), $, available at Nordstrom

Shop Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters Cora Platform Slide Sandal, $, available at Urban Outfitters

Shop H&M

H&M Sporty Platform Slides, $, available at H&M

Best Luxury Slides

Treat yourself to luxury slides from brands like Gucci, Prada, and Loewe. These are chic, logo-embossed shoes that come in quilted Nappa leather or feature chic details like cutouts.

Shop Gucci

Gucci Women's Interlocking G Cut-Out Slide Sandal, $, available at Gucci

Shop Prada

Prada Quilted Nappa Leather Sabots, $, available at Prada

Shop Loewe At Saks Fifth Avenue

Loewe Anagram Padded Leather Flat Sandals, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

15 Best Dresses For Spring Vacays & Summer Days

12 Athleisure Sets Mostly For Lounging In

We Found The Best Tote Bags For Every Occasion

The Maje x Éliou Collab Includes Harry Styles-Approved Necklaces

Ahead of the summer season, it’s time to start thinking about beach-ready essentials. To help with your warm-weather wardrobe needs, Maje and Éliou are launching a new collab, available April 20.

In signature Éliou fashion, the jewelry pieces are made from natural shells and freshwater pearl beads, and include colorful drop and white-and-gold earrings earrings, as well as two beaded necklaces. The color palette plays off Maje’s summer capsule, named “Tropical Purple,” which includes swimwear and cover-ups in cream and orange hues in addition to the heavy purple shades, released in conjunction with the collaboration. 

Launched in 2018, Éliou — the Miami-based brand, founded by Cristy Mantilla and Duda Teixeira — quickly rose to Instagram popularity thanks to its handmade colorful accessories and celebrity fans like Harry Styles and Hailey Bieber. With its color-forward designs, it’s a natural partner for the French brand Maje that’s cemented a following for its upbeat pieces that vary from printed dresses to crochet tops and bright monochrome sets. 

The Maje x Éliou collaboration, as well as the “Tropical Purple” capsule, is available now in select Maje boutiques and on Maje.com. 

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Harry Styles Is Behind All Of Today's Top Trends

3D Florals Are Spring’s Most Appropriate Trend

25 Chic & Versatile Black Bikinis For Summer