Flatforms: the new "it" shoe for spring

The 1970s are back this season, and nothing complements the new flared denim trend more than a platform shoe. The platforms we're most familiar with from the '70s had individual blocks under the heel and toe, but the shoe flooding the market this spring is a "flatform," where the sole of the shoe is all one piece. Flatforms also differ from traditional wedges, which have little to no platform in the front and a high heel. Thankfully for women, these shoes offer an easy, wearable trend that will translate well from the runway to everyday life.

Colleen Sherin, Fashion Director at Saks Fifth Avenue, loved the flatforms that strutted down the catwalk at shows like Fendi and Prada. "The flatform was all over the spring runways, so it is a key trend for footwear and it's something that we are definitely registering at Saks Fifth Avenue," says Sherin. "We have some on the floor right now and on Saks.com, but they're definitely coming in droves over the next month or two."

While we've been seeing an added platform in our heels and boots for a few years now, the flatform trend is predominantly driven by the 1970s-inspired silhouette that is quickly taking over. "It works very well with a fit-and-flared trouser or that 1970s-style jean that we're loving," says Sherin. "A flatform shoe also looks good with the new longer length skirts and dresses that we saw for spring. It's kind of a total look." It's a versatile look that can be dressed up or down with ease. But the best reason to love flatforms is the ease of wear. Traditional heels have a pitch, meaning the way your foot is arched based on the heel height. This is, in most cases, where the "ouch" factor comes into play. Flatform shoes are a great solution to add height without discomfort. Says Sherin: "Some of the heel heights had become so extreme and possibly also not so comfortable at the same time, so the time was right for this kind of shoe to appear." Another bonus: "It really gives the illusion of having longer legs, especially if the shoe is hidden under those longer garments."

Flatforms can be quite versatile, and look fantastic on every woman no matter what her height or body type. "Flatforms are a great problem solver for a woman who might be a bit shorter, and it just adds that much more height onto a woman who's already tall. They've very democratic," Sherin says. And with that added comfort it's a shoe you could potentially wear from day to night. The sole of the shoe can be a main factor in how and when to wear each pair. Wooden or cork soles might work better for day, while leather or satin is a crisper look for evening. When selecting a pair, Sherin suggests trying on several styles and walking around the shoe department to see how they feel on your feet, if they feel stable, and if they're too heavy. "Pick the pair that is the most comfortable so that you can really enjoy them, because if you do find the right one then I think you will get a lot of use out of it," Sherin says.

Ready to buy some flatforms for yourself? Check out the designer pairs we already found on the market. But stay tuned: As temperatures rise, retail shops will be stocking up.

Related links:

Dangerous high heels: Women's shoes reach hazardous heights during the recession
Can you survive a full day (or night) in high heels?
The Footwear Forecast For 2011: Flat With A Chance Of Platforms