How to step up your power dressing game with platform heels

Pair chunky heels with feminine dresses; With suits, these heels create a power dressing moment; Naomi Campbell wears platform heels as part of a monochrome look; Choose the right hemline to flaunt these heels. Pics/Getty Images

From actor Ranveer Singh to singer Olivia Rodrigo, platform heels are finding patrons like never before. And with good reason too - with the festive season right around the corner, these heels can help take some of the weight off (quite literally) your ankles, without compromising your fashion game. "While most people (celebrities included) prefer to wear heels for high-profile events, the focus is now no longer on outrageously uncomfortable heels. Lightweight, comfortable yet eye-catching styles are gaining momentum. Today, platform shoes are no longer heavy on the feet as advancements in material quality have resulted in options that are light and sturdy enough to weather the rigours of a celebratory night. They're being sported by both genders and are quite versatile when it comes to styling them," says footwear designer Aprajita Toor.

Formal flair

At the workplace, platform heels are an excellent alternative since they add height and stature, without compromising on wearability, shares image consultant and personal branding expert Mihika Bhanot. They're also an excellent option for women who aren't accustomed to wearing heels but are eager to embrace power dressing. She advises choosing platform pumps in darker monotone colours. "Make sure the colour of the heel matches that of the shoe for a lengthening effect. While dark heels with white or contrasting platforms are in vogue, they can detract from the overall effortlessness of your look," she suggests.

Mihika Bhanot and Aprajita Toor

The right length

When wearing chunky shoes, it's important to pick clothing with hemlines that end above the knee or extend all the way to the floor, past the platform. "Miniskirts, culottes, cropped trousers and flared dresses all work well with platform heels. In fact, pairing platform boots with flounc-y, feminine dresses keeps the look from becoming too saccharine. You could experiment with various colours and finishes to either complement your outfit or add a contrasting element," Bhanot says. The only caveat with platform heels is that they concentrate attention to the lower half of your body; so, if you are conscious about your ankles or your calves, she advises steering clear of this style. Similarly, very petite body types should avoid very bulky or chunky heels as they can make your feet look disproportionate.

Add some drama vate even the most basic outfit to a fashion statement since they're so attention-grabbing. To balance your look, Bhanot recommends adding another focal point, either in the form of a bold lip or a chunky necklace or bracelets. You could also lean into the dramatic aesthetic by layering your platform heels over colourful or whimsical stockings. "If you're wearing these heels as occasion-wear, pair them with a monochromatic mini-dress that's embellished with sequins. Thigh-high boots with a platform sole are another apt choice for fashion-forward dressers - pick a pair whose colour matches that of your outfit, for a cool monochrome moment," Bhanot concludes.