What are the benefits of platform heels?

If you want shoes that will add major height but are worried about wearing them all day, platforms are the ideal solution. “Platform heels tend to be more comfortable than regular heels as the raised platform under the ball of the foot spreads body weight evenly,” says Appelt. “Many people find platform heels easier to walk in since they feel much more stable with the wide base and the decreased angle of their foot.” Most platforms come with block heels, making them a great option for outdoor weddings as the wide base and heel prevents you from sinking in the grass. For beach weddings, wedges like Kate Spade Fiori Platform Wedges , will make walking on the sand easier and better suit the nautical aesthetic.

How do I practice walking in heels before the wedding?

Whether you are a high-heel veteran or newbie, Appelt says it’s always a good idea to break in new shoes before the big day. The easiest way is to wear them around the house, but if the sole is especially slippery, you may want to take extra measures. “Another great tip is to take the shoes to a shoe cobbler and have the sole replaced with a base that is less slippery,” says Appelt. “A more economical option is to scuff the base of the shoes with sandpaper or even spray a bit of hairspray on the bottom. Just make sure to cover the top of the shoes.”

What dresses go with platform shoes?

While you can wear platform shoes with any dress that you want, Appelt says the style especially goes well with dresses that flare out at the bottom, like A-line, ball gowns, and mermaid silhouettes . The volume of these dresses balances out the height and chunkiness of the platform. Appelt also loves pairing a platform with a tea-length wedding dress , as the shorter hemline shows off your heels for a playful look.

The 20 Best Platform Wedding Shoes of 2023

The sky’s the limit when it comes to platform wedding shoes, and if you love the resurgence of Y2K fashion, this accessory might be the perfect option. In the past, platform shoes were generally known for their extremely elevated heel, however, this trend has been revamped for the modern-day bride. And for those brides that want the extra height, platforms are more comfortable and easier to walk in.

Still choosing a wedding shoe can be difficult, as you need to consider several factors, like the venue, the style of your dress, the height of your partner, and most importantly, your ability to wear the shoes for several hours. To help make this decision easier, we spoke to celebrity fashion stylists for their tips on how to shop for and style platform wedding shoes. With their advice, we researched shoes that offer the best materials, comfortable features, and beautiful designs to suit all wedding dresses and aesthetics. From stilettos to sneakers, there’s a platform shoe to lift you up on your big day.

Our Top Picks

Best Open Toe:

Badgley Mischka Kiara Crystal Back Open-Toe Pump at Nordstrom

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Best Criss-Cross Strap:

Schutz Keefa Sandal at Nordstrom

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Best Lace-Up:

Reformation Magda Ankle Tie Platform at Reformation

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Best Rhinestone:

Betsey Johnson Heeled Sandal at Betseyjohnson.com

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Best Tulle:

Weddy Shoes Swarovski Stone Cross Heels at Etsy

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Best Ankle Strap:

Stuart Weitzman Ryder 95 Platform Sandal at Neiman Marcus

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Best Color:

Rag & Co Martini Latte Sky High Rampwalk Satin Sandals at Dsw.com

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Best Lamé:

Loeffler Randall Natalia Knotted Platform Sandal at Net-a-Porter

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Best Mary Jane:

Valentino Platform Pump at Valentino.com

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Best Budget:

Lulus Satin Platform Ankle Strap Heels at Lulus

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Brides

Badgley Mischka Kiara Crystal Back Open-Toe Pump

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom View On Macy's View On Zappos

This platform pump, while traditional, isn’t lacking in fun details or bridal glam. Though it's a staggering heel, the one-inch platform will give you some extra stability, and it comes in an array of colors from white to sapphire satin. We love how the front is simple—be sure to get a pedicure—but the back has a glamorous array of crystals. Because the shoe is made from structured satin, it doesn’t have much give, so you might want to order a couple sizes to find your precise size and break it in before (see FAQs below for more on breaking in bridal heels).

Price at time of publish: $245

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 5 inches | Materials: Satin

Schutz

View On Nordstrom View On Bloomingdales View On Schutz-shoes.com

With criss-cross straps and a chunky heel, this platform sandal would be perfect for a summer wedding soirée. We love that it comes in several shades of nude to suit different skin tones as well as classic white and silver. Due to the lower heel and extra platform, they are extremely comfortable and easy to walk and dance in. There’s no need to sit down while everyone else is dancing.

Price at time of publish: $148

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 4 inches | Materials: Leather

Reformation

View On Reformation

You'll want all the strings attached with these sustainably-made platform sandals from Reformation. The lace-up ankle straps and square toe make for a trendy and modern shoe that would look amazing with a mini wedding dress. Block heels make them extra sturdy and ready for outdoor terrain—no sinking in the grass here!

Price at time of publish: $278

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 3 inches | Materials: Leather

Amazon

View On Betseyjohnson.com View On Betseyjohnson.com

Your wedding is the perfect occasion to don super sparkly shoes, and there is no shortage of rhinestones in this platform heel from Betsey Johnson. Besides the sparkle, we love how the heel flares out at the base for an interesting take on block heels. Pair it with a sparkly clutch for head to toe glam.

Price at time of publish: $98

Size: 6-11 | Heel Height: 4.75 inches | Materials: Rhinestone satin

Etsy

View On Etsy

These ivory platform heels are a handmade masterpiece! Exuding feminine elegance, the tulle detailing and crystal brooch are sweet finishing touches that would perfectly complement any wedding gown.

Price at time of publish: $149

Size: 4-12 | Heel Height: 4.7 inches | Materials: Tulle with satin

Stuart Weitzman Ryder 95 Platform Sandal

Bloomingdale's

View On Neiman Marcus View On Saks Fifth Avenue View On Stuartweitzman.com

This platform heel from Stuart Weitzman, featuring a peep-toe front and white leather fabric, is both sophisticated and chic. It comes in four different materials, so you can either opt for classic white in smooth leather, a blush suede, or metallic gold. Thanks to a buffed leather outsole with grooves for added traction, you don’t have to worry about slipping down the aisle.

Price at time of publish: $495

Size: 3.5 - 12 | Heel Height: 5.1 inches | Materials: Smooth Leather, Suede, Liquid Metallic Leather

Rag & Co Martini Latte Sky High Rampwalk Satin Sandals

DSW

View On Dsw.com View On Ragnco.com View On Shoecarnival.com

There’s platform heels and then there’s platform heels like these. With a 1 inch platform and a nearly 6 inch block heel, this sandal is super tall and chunky. The closed square toe gives it some punk edge while the crystal-embellished ankle strap adds a girly touch. Plus it comes in bright colors like green, red, and yellow. Go bold or go home.

Price at time of publish: $75

Size: 5 - 10 | Heel Height: 5.5 inches | Materials: Satin

Loeffler Randall Natalia Knotted Platform Sandal

Zappos

View On Net-a-Porter View On Bloomingdales View On Loefflerrandall.com

Add a romantic touch to your wedding gown with these platform sandals from Loeffler Randall. The signature pleated detailing and bow embellishment are sweet and fun. The style is a favorite among brides thanks to the padded footbed that provides additional comfort. It also comes in 14 bridal friendly hues. The style does run small, so the brand recommends you size up if you have wide feet.

Price at time of publish: $450

Size: 6-10 | Heel Height: 4.5 inches | Materials: Lamé

Valentino

View On Valentino.com

Mary Janes are back and if you want to infuse your wedding look with modern trends, go with the Barbiecore pink. Valentino popularized sky-high Mary Jane platforms on the runway, and this pair is wedding aisle ready. The patent leather also comes in classic ivory and nude.

Price at time of publish: $1,400

Size: 4.5-11.5 | Heel Height: 6.1 inches | Materials: Patent Leather

Lulus

View On Lulus

If you don’t want to spend a ton on your wedding shoes—your dress often covers them anyway—we recommend these platform heels from Lulus. You still get major height and elegant satin styling for less than $50. In addition to ivory, silver, and gold, they come in gold glitter for some extra sparkle.

Price at the time of publish: $45

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 4.75 inches | Materials: Satin

Jimmy Choo Sacaria Pearl-Embellished Satin Platform Sandals

Moda Operandi

View On Nordstrom View On Neiman Marcus View On Bloomingdales

If there’s anything we learned this year from the Met Gala, it’s that pearls take a look from 0 to 100 real quick. Dripping in pearls, this platform heel from Jimmy Choo is a fun way to wear embellished shoes without the sparkle of rhinestones or crystals.. The different sizes of the pearl embellishments provide an interesting dynamic that is eye-catching and a bit retro. The big pearl is the cherry on top.

Price at time of publish: $2,050

Size: 5-12 | Heel Height: 4.8 inches | Materials: Pearl studded satin and leather

Nina

View On Ninashoes.com

You can still achieve some height with a lower platform, like with this champagne block heel from Nina Shoes. We love the glittering champagne fade for a departure from traditional white or ivory. The square toe feels extra modern.

Price at time of publish: $69

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 3.75 inches | Materials: Reflective Suedette fabric

Aldo

View On Aldoshoes.com

Still looking for that “something blue?” Blue shoes are the easiest way to participate in the tradition. These platforms from Aldo come in a light blue shade that won’t overpower your wedding look. A rhinestone brooch dresses them up further and can be that sparkle your outfit is missing. Yet what really makes these heels stand out is the brand’s special pillow soles. The dual density foam absorbs impact and gives you extra stability while you walk. Plus, there’s extra padding at the ball and heel of your foot. Finally a pair of heels you won’t be waiting to take off.

Price at time of publish: $140

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 4.5 inches | Materials: Satin

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom View On Shoemall.com View On Zappos

If you want a platform without all the bulkiness, go for this strappy sandal from Chinese Laundry. Not only is the heel a little shorter than others on this list, but the platform is also shorter, so the shoe is lightweight, both physically and visually. The shaved block heel also contributes to the minimalistic feel. Silver is another great pick for bridal shoes as the shade goes with every dress yet feels a little more contemporary.

Price at time of publish: $70

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 3.25 inches | Materials: Faux Leather

Lulus

View On Lulus

We recognize that most of the styles on this list have rounded or square toes, so for those folks that prefer pointed toes, look at these stunners. Similar to the Valentino Garavani Tan-Go Platform Pump, these tap into the Mary Jane but are a small fraction of the price. Plus you get some fun pearl detailing on the straps. With a 5.75 inch heel and 2.25 double stacked platform, this style is for those who truly want to be as tall as possible.

Price at time of publish: $51

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 5.75 inches | Materials: Faux Leather

Keds Triple Kick Leather Platform Sneakers

Nordstrom

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Keds.com

Whether you’re not a heel gal or want a super comfortable reception shoe, this platform sneaker from Keds is a great option. The nearly two-inch platform gives you some height but will be a breeze to walk in. We know you’ll be wearing these well beyond the wedding.

Price at time of publish: $75

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 1.5 inches | Materials: Leather

Kate Spade

View On Katespade.com

Wedges are the superior shoe choice when getting married on the beach, as most heels will sink into the sand. With 3D, bejeweled flowers, this wedge still looks bridal. The wicker-wrapped heels add some exciting texture and a vintage feel. If you were considering wearing a shorter dress for easier mobility in the sand, these shoes are another reason to!

Price at time of publish: $248

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 4 inches | Materials: Napa leather

Mach & Mach

View On Saks Fifth Avenue

Crystal embellished straps? Yes please! Not only do the straps add that glitz and glam, but they keep you strapped into the 5 inch heels. A square toe and flared heel offset the dainty crystal straps for a fierce and fabulous shoe.

Price at time of publish: $1,155

Size: 5-12 | Heel Height: 5 inches | Materials: Crystal, Satin

ASOS

View On Asos

Mules always look effortlessly chic, and while they may not be a go-to wedding shoe, we think they are the perfect compliment to shorter hemlines like tea-length and mini dresses. With no embellishments or sparkles, this affordable pair offers a clean and timeless look. The 5.3 inch heel is substantial but the platform matches it.

Price at time of publish: $61

Size: 5-11 | Heel Height: 5.3 inches | Materials: Faux Leather

Saks Fifth Avenue

View On Bloomingdales View On Saks Fifth Avenue View On Sophiawebster.com

At first glance, this shoe appears like your standard wedding platform heel—ivory satin fabric, ankle strap, and peep-toe front. That is until you notice the artfully designed heel! The gradient of pearls that make up the stem of the heel is equal parts unique and trendy.

Price at time of publish: $770

Size: 4.5 - 15.5 | Heel Height: 5.5 inches | Materials: Satin

Meet the Expert

Kim Appelt is a celebrity fashion stylist and author of Style for Everybody, a book about curating a wardrobe that works for you.

What to Look for in a Platform Wedding Shoe

Height

Choosing the heel height is one of the most important factors that will impact your look and comfort. First and foremost, you want to be comfortable on your feet, so if you never wear heels, your wedding may not be the time to experiment with sky-high platforms. Look for lower heels and even a sneaker, like Keds Triple Kick Leather Platform Sneakers. You also want to consider the height of your partner and the length of your dress. “Some brides don’t want to be towering over their love while others love to be as tall as possible showing off some great legs,” says celebrity fashion stylist Kim Appelt.

Pro tip: Be sure to choose your shoes before you make any adjustments to your wedding dress, so you can tailor the hem to match your heels.

Color

While you might think wedding shoes are always white, you don’t have to restrict yourself to that one color. Depending on the style and color of your dress, you might want to try variations of white, off-white, ivory, cream, or nude. You can also add some subtle color by opting for blush, gold, or champagne, like Nina Shoes Stacie Platform Sandal. Other brides use their shoes as an opportunity for a pop of color and rock green or blue shoes, like Aldo Solitaira. There is no wrong or right color choice, so choose the shade that suits your fancy.

Style

Just like with the color, you also want to consider how the style of your shoe will compliment your dress. If you are wearing a sleek and simple dress, you can add some drama with your footwear by wearing sparkly or pearl-embellished sandals like Jimmy Choo Pearl Sandals. When your dress is already decked out in sparkles and embellishments, a minimalistic pair, like Chinese Laundry Taryn Sandal, can provide the contrast.

FAQ

What are the benefits of platform heels?

If you want shoes that will add major height but are worried about wearing them all day, platforms are the ideal solution. “Platform heels tend to be more comfortable than regular heels as the raised platform under the ball of the foot spreads body weight evenly,” says Appelt. “Many people find platform heels easier to walk in since they feel much more stable with the wide base and the decreased angle of their foot.”
Most platforms come with block heels, making them a great option for outdoor weddings as the wide base and heel prevents you from sinking in the grass. For beach weddings, wedges like Kate Spade Fiori Platform Wedges, will make walking on the sand easier and better suit the nautical aesthetic.
How do I practice walking in heels before the wedding?

Whether you are a high-heel veteran or newbie, Appelt says it’s always a good idea to break in new shoes before the big day. The easiest way is to wear them around the house, but if the sole is especially slippery, you may want to take extra measures.
“Another great tip is to take the shoes to a shoe cobbler and have the sole replaced with a base that is less slippery,” says Appelt. “A more economical option is to scuff the base of the shoes with sandpaper or even spray a bit of hairspray on the bottom. Just make sure to cover the top of the shoes.”
What dresses go with platform shoes?

While you can wear platform shoes with any dress that you want, Appelt says the style especially goes well with dresses that flare out at the bottom, like A-line, ball gowns, and mermaid silhouettes. The volume of these dresses balances out the height and chunkiness of the platform. Appelt also loves pairing a platform with a tea-length wedding dress, as the shorter hemline shows off your heels for a playful look.

Why Trust Brides

Emily Cieslak is an Associate Commerce Editor at Brides, covering all things beauty and fashion. As a petite girlie, she always looks for shoes with a platform and is experienced finding styles that offer height and comfort.