valentino pumps

Shot and produced by GRAZIA

 

After pandemic-filled seasons of trainers and Birkenstocks, the tall, chunky platform heel feels like the perfect antidote to our fashion oppression. ‘Comfort first’ mantras have been surpassed for the thrill of climbing into SS22’s towering platforms, by the likes of Versace, Valentino et al. Here’s the best picks of the season.

Versace Medusa Aevitas Platform Pumps

Versace Medusa Aevitas Platform Pumps
Versace, Medusa Aevitas Platform Pumps ,Dhs5,750, SHOP NOW

There is a good chance you have seen the Versace’s Medusa Aevitas Platform Pumps splashed across your Instagram explore page, usually with a side of mini dress and fuchsia pink. From debuting on the AW21 runway, Versace’s double platform pumps have awoken a worldwide fashion nostalgia, with every 70s, 90s, and noughties fashion fan pinning and moodboard-ing the satin beauties.

Valentino Garavani Tan-Go Platform Pumps

Valentino Garavani Tan-Go Platform Pumps
Valentino Garavani at Levels Shoes, Tan-Go Platform Pumps,Dhs4,050, SHOP NOW

If you are looking for a subtle take on the Bratz-esque pump, Valentino Garavani’s Tan-Go Platform Pumps are a contemporarily elegant choice. Giving a fashion-girl touch to ladylike looks, we can very much imaging Charlotte York-Goldenblatt pairing these round toe pumps with a fine knit and midi skirt combo on And Just Like That.

Guiseppe Zanotti Bebe

Guiseppe Zanotti Bebe
Guiseppe Zanotti, Bebe Patent Leather Platforms, Dhs1,920, SHOP NOW

True platform fanatics, Giuseppe Zannotti and Vivienne Westwood, will scorn the idea of their sacred platform being deemed a ‘trend’, having been advocates of the towering style since day dot. Giuseppe’s patent Bebe platform is a true wardrobe multitasker, ideal for pairing with low-denier tights and Julia Fox-style leather trouser alike. The glossy patent leather gives a grown-up, polished edge to the fun style, whilst the square toe confirms it’s 90s influence.

 

As our love for opulence dressing grows (we’re looking at you, opera gloves), so does the cementation of the platform pump as the it shoe of the season. Perfectly pairing with our other favourite trends this season, the chunkiness of the pump allows for proportional experimentation. Exaggerated shoulders? Over the top ruffles? These platforms can handle it.

Don’t let the fear of a Naomi ’93 fall shake your confidence; these shoes were most definitely made for walking.