Platform Disco Shoes

Platform disco shoes are any footwear, whether boots or sandals, with a thick sole made from materials like rubber, plastic, cork, or wood. The sole’s thickness may range from 3cm to about 10 cm (1-4 inches). The shoes come in different styles, from those with wedges, stiletto heels, and even separate blocks.

History 

Platform sandals cut across many cultures. The ones made from genuine leather were first spotted in Venice during the 15th Century. During this period, the disco shoes were designed to keep feet dry, especially when walking through flooded pavements. The 1970s saw them as extensive footwear among both genders, especially in Europe. However, in today's world, they are only preferred by women. They also made their way to ancient Greece, where they were useful in raising the height of famous characters who were part of the Greek Theatre.

The Japanese “geta” and the “buskins” of Ancient Rome were other platforms that were useful in protecting the wearer from dirt and grime. Dating back to the 18th Century Japan, sandals known as "okobos" were worn by geishas during their apprenticeship activities. Wooden “kabkabs”, similar to the “okobos”, were worn by Lebanese women from the 14 century to the 17th Century. This pair had straps that were mainly crafted from materials such as silk, leather, and velvet. In ancient India, “Padukas” were handcrafted into different animal shapes before being decorated with silver and ivory.

The Modern-Day 

From 1930s to  1950s,  leather platform shoes gained popularity in Europe, the United States, and in the UK. Between the 1960s to the 1980s, the sandals were highly sought-after as a favorite shoe staple.

 1930s-1950s

 Morris Kimel, the owner of a shoe factory in Los Angeles, came up with the first modern design of the platform shoe for an actress named Marlene Dietrich. With time, the model gained popularity amongst the elites of Beverly Hills.

In 1938, a famous shoemaker named Salvatore Ferragamo designed a sandal for an American singer and actress, and called it, "The Rainbow." The ankle strap platform sandal was made out of unique slabs of cork. To build up the wedge, Salvatore covered the sandal in suede and added gold kidskin as the straps. The design and colors used to craft it still resemble the modern shoe standards of today. Though platform disco shoes were designed with a high arch in the 1940s, the shoes were still not that popular.

1960s-1970s

From 1967 to the early 1980s, young women in their teens and twenties started gaining interest in platform shoes as a fashion statement. They also became quite popular among the disco goers who used them to draw attention to themselves while on the dance floor. Many glam musicians also started wearing sandals that had been adorned with tiny lights and glitter while on stage. The shoes not only provided them with added height but also made them the center of attraction.

1980s

Different manufacturers like Famolare introduced a pair of sandals that were not only comfortable but also combined the added height of platforms. Many women and girls of all ages started opting for the pair.

 1990s

A fashion designer known as Vivienne Westwood, based in the UK, re-introduced the high-heeled platform shoes. However, during this period, they were not in demand. They later resurfaced in the late 1990s and were an everyday shoe staple in a UK band known as "The Spice Girls." 

21st Century

The disco shoe resurfaced in the early 2000s and gained popularity among celebrities due to its sex appeal. The late 2010s saw platform sandals with clear Perspex soles dominating the market as must-have footwear.

Styling Tips

•    Go for a pair that is not too narrow at the soles, as they tend to hurt your feet. If you want a pair that is a bit easier on your feet, then go for cork-made bottoms with breathable fabrics.

•  If you are thinking of what to wear during summer, then I'd recommend going for peep-toe platform sandals. You can go ahead and dress them down in an oversized tunic top and a leather skirt.

• For office wear, you can choose to match your boots with blazers and simple short-sleeved tees.

•   For an everyday look, consider dressing down your sneakers with your new skinny jeans.

•    If you are looking for a comfortable outfit to take you through summer, spring, and early fall, then sandals would work just fine. Pair them with a midi skirt or a maxi dress, and you'll be good to go.

• Ankle boots made from genuine leather are a perfect choice for the winter season. Opt for a unique version, pair with ankle-length pants or cuffed denim, and you'll be ready to head out.

 Though platform shoes have been around for centuries, they are significantly linked to the 70s. The pair will not go out of style anytime soon. The style is here to stay. Why don't you scroll through our selection of affordable platform disco shoe styles and place your order now to enjoy amazing discounts of up to 50% off on select items?