15 Platform Loafers to Elevate Your Outfits this Spring
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Spring symbolizes the season of growth—and I mean that in every way. As you invest in your personal growth, don’t miss the opportunity to grow a couple of extra inches with the help of a new pair of platform loafers. Whether your style leans towards preppy or carries a bit of edge, loafers have evolved into a wardrobe staple both within and beyond the office, offering the potential to become your most comfortable work shoe. However, extra height isn’t the sole benefit that platforms offer. The right pair can also provide added support and comfort, a welcome feature for a busy individual like yourself. Just sling your favorite hobo bag over your shoulder and throw on a pair of sunglasses to effortlessly complete the look. The team at FRANKIE4 can attest to this. “The elevated platform sole not only adds a fashionable touch but also provides additional support, making them ideal for extended wear,” says Gabrielle Thompson, the brand’s director of footwear. “Whether you’re dressing up for a formal event or keeping it casual for a day out, platform loafers strike the perfect balance.”
What do we stand to gain by adding an extra lift to our shoes? Podiatrist and FRANKIE4 founder Caroline McCulloch explains that “with the right sole design, made with the right materials, the added thickness typical of platform styles can offer wearers improved shock absorption and stability, enhancing overall comfort and support.” This is, of course, dependent on finding the right fit. “Aim for enough space at the front to walk comfortably without your toes hitting the end, yet not too much room that your feet slip inside the shoes,” Thompson advises. “Additionally, with a heavier sole, it's essential to ensure the shoes don’t slip at the heel, as this can be exacerbated by the weight.” Trust the experts—your feet will thank you!
Once you find the perfect pair, the rest is smooth sailing. Their versatility will make these your go-to shoes all year round, and you might even find yourself coming back for more. “I adore the juxtaposition of androgynous loafers with feminine attire, but their adaptability knows no bounds,” Thompson shares. “You can effortlessly pair them with any outfit, regardless of hemline, color palette, or level of formality.” Couldn’t have said it better myself. Reclaim your stomping grounds in style with the best platform loafers featured below.
Natasha Monk-Strap Loafer
If you’re a sucker for subtle details like I am, these are the shoes for you. The monk strap and gold buckle differentiate these from other loafer styles and the tortoise detail on the sole serves as extra eye candy.
Sizes: US 6-12
Colors: Black Box, Black/White
Material: Leather
Stone Street Boat Shoes
Widely known as an NYC icon, Timberland boots have captivated the city with their comfort and durability. Now, the brand’s rendition of the platform loafer has captivated my shopping cart. Whether you’ve been a long-time fan of Timbs or are just stepping into the workwear space, this purchase is one you won’t regret.
Sizes: US 6-10
Colors: Burgundy, Wheat
Material: Leather, rubber
Agathea Chunky Loafer
Introducing texture and bold patterns to your footwear can instantly elevate the energy of your outfit. Consider these Gigi Hadid-approved platform loafers from Reformation as a prime example. The calf hair texture and leopard print pattern strike a balance between playful and chic. However, it’s worth noting that breaking them in might require a bit of patience, as reported by ELLE editors.
Sizes: US 5-11
Colors: Leopard, Black, Espresso Leather, Mirror Metallic, Nutmeg/White Cb
Material: Cowhide
Horsebit Platform Loafer
These loafers give “high fashion” a brand new meaning. Adorned with the iconic Gucci monogram and perched on a 3.5-inch platform, they infuse the classic loafer style with a bold and dramatic flair that’s impossible to ignore.
Sizes: US 6-12
Colors: Beige
Material: Leather
Platform Loafers
Embrace timeless style and commuter comfort with these round-toe loafers, which feature a simple silhouette accented by a gold metal coin and a sturdy lug sole. Need them in a hurry? They’re conveniently available on Amazon Prime for quick delivery.
Sizes: US 5.5-10.5
Colors: 11 options
Material: Leather, rubber
Leni Canvas Platform Loafers
This Charles & Keith design channels a nostalgic vibe with its two-tone canvas upper and coordinating sole, complete with a subtle heel for added height.
Sizes: US 5-11
Colors: Beige, Black
Material: Canvas
Saint Black
You shouldn’t have to settle for uncomfortable shoes! McCulloch explains, “Despite its platform sole, the Saint exudes a ‘flat’ appearance, yet subtly holds the foot in a slightly pitched position, enhancing comfort and accommodating limited ankle joint movement.”
Sizes: US 6-12
Colors: Black, Biscuit
Material: Leather
Cherry Penny Loafers
Doesn’t everyone love a statement shoe? Oui oui, ma chérie! These loafers, crafted from luxurious Italian leather and embellished with an artist-designed cherry illustration, offer a refreshing twist to office attire. This pair from Duke & Dexter rests on a 25mm sole, providing just a subtle lift for those seeking a touch of elevation.
Sizes: US 5-10
Colors: Cherry, Kiss
Material: Leather, rubber
Halie
With warm weather just around the corner, consider giving your next pair of loafers a summery spin. Donald Pliner’s Halie, boasting bold red shiny croc patent leather and a slingback buckle closure, is sure to add sizzle to your look this season.
Sizes: US 5-11
Colors: 6 options
Material: Leather
Platform Penny Loafer
With its smooth leather upper and chunky Vibram sole, Sacai elevates the penny loafer to new heights—literally.
Sizes: US 6-9
Colors: Black, Burgundy
Material: Leather, rubber
Adrian Quad
No matter the silhouette, Dr. Martens will always be a classic. With the slip-resistant sole and iconic matte leather finish, these platform loafers are an obvious choice for any occasion.
Sizes: US 5-15
Colors: Black
Material: Leather
Mary Jane Fisherman Super Lug Weejuns Loafer
A Mary Jane, fisherman, and platform loafer all in one? Yes, please!
Sizes: US 5-11
Colors: Off-White, Black, Lilac
Material: Leather
Not The One
This Seychelles pair introduces an enhanced fit to a classic style. The chunky block heel is complemented by a sleek leather upper and buckled ankle strap for additional support and comfort.
Sizes: US 6-10
Colors: Black
Material: Leather
Aleo Platform Penny Loafer
If it’s platform you want, it’s platform you’ll get! Boost your look with this patent pair from Azalea, offering both style and extra height for maximum impact.
Sizes: US 6.5-11
Colors: Black
Material: Synthetic
Leather Slip On Platform Loafers
Known for the parallelogram-shaped heel, Clergerie continues to push the boundaries with innovative design and commitment to quality craftsmanship.
Sizes: US 5-11
Colors: Long calf, Straw calf
Material: Lambskin leather, rubber
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Meet The Experts
Caroline McCulloch is an experienced podiatrist and the founder of FRANKIE4.
Gabrielle Thompson is the director of footwear at FRANKIE4.
As leaders at FRANKIE4, McCulloch and Thompson are dedicated to crafting footwear with revolutionary comfort engineered to promote alignment and alleviate pressure from pain-prone areas, all while ensuring stylish and fashion-forward designs.
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