What was once designed as a practical garment to prevent sinking into paddy fields has now become a y2k symbol of escapism and a form of self-expression. 2022’s sky-high platform heels reflect the exuberant freedom and fun we are all in search of this summer. So far, this wildly popular style has successfully maintained its hype throughout the year, which just goes to show how strong the desire is for bold and flamboyant outfits to return.

Go all out in glitter and rhinestones

 

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A post shared by Sydney Sweeney (@sydney_sweeney)

Sydney Sweeney’s rhinestone moment on the MTV Movie & TV Awards red carpet was the definition of y2k. Miu Miu dressed Sydney in a bedazzled low-rise skirt and paired it with eye-catching platforms. The ensemble also hit Euphoria fans with a huge wave of nostalgia, because there’s nothing that screams noughties more than glitter and sparkle – and Sydney’s platform sandals brought the look together and elevated it. Literally.

Olivia Rodrigo opted to up the glitter factor with her 2022 Met Gala look! The pop princess completed her bejewelled outfit with a pair of glittery Versace platform sandals to better convey the Met Gala’s theme of “Gilded Glamour” while simultaneously solidifying the colour purple as hers. 

For her Met Gala after-party look, Olivia wore a hot pink tweed dress with a classic black pair of Versace Medusa Aevitas platforms, which has quickly become an it-girl staple shoe.

Embrace your inner Barbiecore

Back in March, Valentino and Pantone collaborated to present an exclusive shade of pink for Valentino’s Autumn/Winter 2022 collection. Named Valentino Pink PP the bold, optimistic shade returned in July for the Valentino Haute Couture show, with stars like Hwasa, Anne Hathaway, Ariana DeBose, and Florence Pugh gracing the Spanish Steps and taking over the Internet because of their all-pink “Barbiecore” looks.

Anne Hathaway’s sequinned minidress was emphasised with a pair of hot pink platform pumps. Meanwhile, Florence Pugh contrasted her delicate tulle dress with the same signature platform heels, securing Valentino’s reputation as being at the forefront of this year’s viral “Barbiecore” aesthetic.

Hwasa pulled off a unique floral outfit, rocking a monochromatic fuchsia shade from head to toe. 

Add a pop of colour to your look