How To Pull Off Major Platform Oxfords & Loafers

In case you haven't noticed, the '90s are back in a big way. That includes everything from choker necklaces and brown lipstick to, my personal favorite trend, chunky shoes . I've always loved menswear-style shoes such as loafers and oxfords, but now I'm having fun by adding a fun twist to the look with the help of a thick platform. Not only does it give me a bit of added height (which, at 5'4," I can never resist) but it also balances out the preppy side of this type of shoe with a dose of '90s grunge.

I highly recommend picking up a pair of platform oxfords or loafers this fall, because they're comfortable and will easily add an interesting touch to any outfit. In case you're not sure how to style them, I put together a few helpful tips gleaned from my own experience. I own a pair of platform oxfords and a pair of platform loafers, both of which were lucky clearance finds at Target. You can still find the loafers here and the oxfords here, and I included a few other stylish options below.

Clockwise from Top Left: Nine West Berbieri Platform Oxford, $60, Nordstrom Faux Leather Platform Oxfords, $35, Forever 21Platform Patent Loafers, $40, Mango OutletBromen Loafer, $54, Steve Madden

Now I'll show you three different outfit ideas to pair with this kind of shoes, whether you're wearing them on the weekend, to work, or for a date.

1. Dress Them Down For The Weekend

Shoes like these are a great choice for the weekend because they're comfortable and low-key. Above, I paired my platform oxfords with black leggings, a grey sweater, and a military-style parka. A pair of plaid red socks add just the right amount of color and visual interest. This look is preppy on the bottom and casual on top.

This is another good weekend look. Ripped boyfriend jeans and a leather jacket go really well with my platform loafers, because they help to dress the shoes down for a casual weekend outing. With this outfit, I'm comfortable and stylish without having to try very hard.

2. Make Them Look Polished For Work

Borrow the menswear vibe from your platform oxfords and carry that through with the rest of your outfit for work. I love how these velvet pants, paired with a half-tucked button down, mesh with these shoes. With trousers like these, wear a pair of those very low-riding socks so that you can get the ankle-baring look without having to deal with cold toes or smelly shoes.

If pants aren't your style, I also love how a mini skirt (made appropriate for work with the help of black tights) looks with my platform loafers. Add a turtleneck and suddenly the whole look is very '90s in a way that's reminiscent of Meg Ryan in You've Got Mail.

3. Dress Them Up For A Date

Of course, you can wear whatever makes you feel most confident for date night. I personally like the contrast between these clunky shoes and an ultra-feminine dress. Above, I paired a flowy midi dress with a cropped trench and my platform oxfords for a simple but put-together look.

My platform loafers also look really great with a short dress and knee-high socks. I added a cool moto jacket to keep things from getting too school-girl.

As you can see, there's tons of different ways to style these chunky '90s shoes. Whether your style is preppy, casual, girly, or grungy, a pair of platform oxfords or loafers can be a surprisingly versatile addition to your wardrobe. Take a break from ballet flats and ankle boots this fall and give these nerdy-chic clompers a chance.

Images: Kelly Dougher