They’re awkwardly-named and look like something out of a cheesy 90s teen flick, but flatform wedges have got to be my favorite shoe trend for 2011 (creepers are a close second). Flatforms, or level platform shoes, are by no means a new phenomenon. Not only did they make up the defining look of the Spice Girls, but I’ve seen them on Japanese street fashion photos way before the trend exploded. I didn’t quite bite into it then because Japanese flatforms look too goth or too cosplay-like for my liking. Then Prada, Derek Lam, and Vena Cava thought to include them in their spring collection, and the world went nuts.
The nice thing about shoe trends is that it gives other designers a chance to put their own spin to it, making it easier for you to find a variation that you like. I’ve been stalking my favorite Multiply Shops for flatforms I could buy, and it took me ages to decide because they come in so many shapes, colors, and styles. After a lot of searching, I discovered the Mimosa flatform from Rome Design and fell in love immediately. The colorful striped straps are simply adorable, and I love the studded detail on the sole.
Aside from looking awesome, flatforms have that added bonus of being comfortable! My feet can’t tolerate heels for very long, but flatforms make me feel like I’m naturally 3 inches tall. This pair, in particular, has a soft wedge that adds a little bounce with every step. I love it!
Fringe top: Urban Outfitters
Shorts: Greenhills
Flatforms: Rome Design
Crochet bag: really old, I can’t remember where I got it
Flatforms are one of those trends that people either love or hate, for the very reason that they look radically different from the typical wedge heel you see at malls or fast fashion stores. I think the reasons why people hate them more than they love them are because a) fashion editors aren’t fawning over them, b) the It girls aren’t wearing them, and c) fashion retailers aren’t making them accessible to the public (which is why shopping at the Multiply Marketplace is so awesome). But I bet once Alexa Chung or the Olsen twins start getting spotted in flatforms, they’ll be available in Forever 21 within a week’s time. And I think as soon as flatform’s “haters” try a pair on, they might change their mind – they’re a lot more comfortable and walkable than they look.
Whatever else the public may think, I personally love flatforms, and if you love them too, don’t let the opinions of closed-minded people keep you from giving this trend a try!
oooh I love that flatforms! Just like you I cannot stand that long in a pair of heels, but with wedges and flatforms just like yours, I think I can even run with it! :)
Flatforms really bring the best of both worlds. I wish this had become a trend sooner!
Hello! I’ve been reading your blog since ukay manila days pa.
First time ko mag comment. =D
I saw you yesterday with your boyfriend at Rob. Galleria. Actually sya yung na-recognize ko I thought baka kasama ka nya so I followed him (shocks parang stalker lang). I wanted to say hi pero na-starstruck ako eh. =/
Awww, kinilig naman ako sa comment mo. Sana you said hi! I like meeting new people through my blog. I do hope to run into you soon. :)
That does look interesting! Sort of like walking on stilts, but much sturdier. Is it heavy?
Not at all! The wedges are made of a dense foam so it’s very light. I don’t know if all flatforms are made that way though.
oh i love that one. i think depende sa style, color and the wearer’s legs. you got cute legs and that one looks cute automatically on you.
cuteness!!!
Onga! I think that’s why I like them. They remind me of the 90s.
I got those see. Seeing this post got me excited! They look awesome!
The bag was a Christmas present from Tita Hazel
With the right design, flatforms can be a gift to women :) I have a pair of flatform brogues. Still want one in a mary jane (?)-type style. Saw one before at Charles and Keith. Hesitated, then a week went by and they were sold out!
I like the one that you chose. Anything with an ethnic/reggae feel is great in my book!
You were in Tomas Morato and you didn’t text me! Mark lives nearby lang. On another note, daming creepers and flatforms in The Ramp, Glorietta! I thought of you when I saw them :)
Ooh I didn’t know! Marco lives near Tomas too. Are you always in the area? :)
Aww, now I’m even more tempted to go to The Ramp! I’ve been avoiding it lately cos it’s so hard to resist not buying anything whenever I go there.
flatforms are soooo cute! but it goes with a certain body-type, methinks. I tried it on, and all I could think was with my big feet and rounded frame, I looked kinda…IDK, hulkish? Or maybe I just need to find the right outfit. even Janilyn has a couple already (well, sorta like flatforms) but they’re on the 1.9k side.
Random question, how much are you willing to spend on a “trendy” pair of shoes?
Maybe it’s a matter of finding the right flatform style too! Some flatforms do look a bit chunky, but there are others (like the creepers I got) that aren’t as tall and a bit more tapered. Yeah I saw those flatforms at Janilyn but they’re kind of expensive! I was pretty tempted but if they’re deeply discounted, I’ll probably consider it. I heard there are flatforms selling for as low as P500+ in Market Market these days.
As for trendy shoes… P1,200 is my limit, especially if they’re the cheapy made-in-China type. These days I’d rather just spend on classic styles and/or leather shoes cos I know I’ll wear them more often than a trendy style.
I can’t stand being in heels and wedges since I became a mommy. Flats and Fitflops na lang tuloy. Looks like I’m going to buy a flatform soon. =)