The Single Sole Shoe

Put away your platforms, ladylike is making a comeback!

Spring is finally here, and I’m especially excited that single-sole heels are huge this season. There’s only so high you can go with a platform before it becomes too much. Although platforms can give you Amazonian height and make you feel great, it’s much easier to walk in single-sole heel (no clunking noises!). Plus, they just look so much more elegant and refined.

Although there are some nice platform designs out there, the single-sole shoe will always be around. The best shoe designers always have a classic single-sole in their seasonal collections. And some designers stick to what they know works; Manolo Blahnik has never designed a shoe with a platform, he believes single-soled shoes are more comfortable and change the way a woman walks. Those who don’t do the platform thing can be thankful for his consistently classic (and creative!) designs. However, there is a plus side to platform heels: there’s room to sneak in some extra cushioning. Some single-sole shoes are absolutely brutal to the ball of your foot. Look for shoes with hidden platforms if you want the best of both! A pump with a small hidden platform gives you the look of a single sole shoe with the comfort of a platform. Plus, it looks like you’re wearing heels higher than they actually are! Single soled shoes I’m lusting after:

Jimmy-Choo-Lang
Jimmy Choo Lang

Manolo-Blahnik-BB

Manolo Blahnik BB

Casadei-Valentina

Casadei Valentina

In my opinion, there are only a few well-designed platform pumps out there. I’m a big fan of the YSL Tribtoo. With a straight heel and classic upper shape, the Tribtoo has an air of sophistication that you don’t often see in a platform pump. (Irina from Pour La Victoire is a great alternative to the Tribtoo). I have a feeling this platform style will always be around, but I hope higher and more ridiculous designs will be put on the back burner.