15 Effortlessly Cool and Playful Platform Mules to Take Your Summer Looks Up a Notch

The wonderful thing about a pair of platform mules is that you get the lovely height of a heel without the ache that comes from a higher pitch (a.k.a. the angle of your foot). Take these editor-approved sandals, for example. Our digital director, Claire Stern Milch, swears by these, saying, “At 4 inches high with a 1.5-inch platform, they’re comfortable enough to wear all day—and trust me, I’ve done the legwork.”

Sizes: 5-11

Colors: Ivory

Material: Kidskin leather

Remember how I mentioned my recent search history included ‘platform clogs’? These are exactly what I had in mind. I’ll be wearing these now until the fall, and when the temperatures start to drop, I’ll style them with a pair of crew socks.

Sizes: 37-41

Colors: Ginger Brown

Material: Shiny cowhide upper, wood midsole, crepe rubber sole

For anyone who’s asking, I’m a firm believer that you can never have too much denim. And yes, that entails your shoes, too. These chunky platform mules will look as good with a pair of on-trend capri pants as they would with a silk midi skirt, right?

Sizes: 35-42

Colors: Medium Wash

Material: Fabric with leather lining

Oh, yes—the platform mule that reigned over all the others. Steve Madden’s Slinky30 has stood the test of time; and it doesn’t hurt that these under-$100 shoes also have a comfortable foam sole, either.

Sizes: 5-11

Colors: 9 options

Material: Textile

Alaïa may have already sold you with its high-fashion take on the elevated espadrille, but just in case you’ve come back for more, I present you with this patent leather platform, which will add a sophisticated edge to any looks you plan to wear on those summer nights out.

Sizes: 35-45

Colors: Chair

Materials: Leather

To me, a proud owner of these playful wedges, this feels like the 2024 version of the classic sky-high platform in the best way possible. I style mine with everything from a pair of boyfriend jeans and a classic T-shirt to a mini skirt. Either way, you’ll look like you have legs for days.

Sizes: 35-41

Colors: Black

Material: French Goat Leather

Perhaps you’re looking for something that feels a little tougher. In which case, you’re going to love these studded platforms from Free People.

Sizes: 6-11

Colors: Black

Material: Leather

To be honest, I just love these with a passion; they look so fun. And sometimes, that’s all you need. This is fashion, after all! Just imagine how great these will look with your favorite Bermuda shorts, a linen dress, or even cropped trousers.

Sizes: 35-42

Colors: Denim

Material: Denim with pigskin lining

The platform on these loafer mules is subtle, but don’t let that deter you—the style is all there. This is the investment-worthy option that’ll be perfect for the days when you plan to go to the office and then the wine bar for happy hour.

Sizes: 35-41

Colors: Nero

Material: Leather

My colleagues—associate fashion commerce editor Meg Donohue and senior culture editor Erica Gonzales—are both fans of Melissa for its stylish, affordable, and sustainable shoes. Thanks to these pearlescent bad boys, I might be the next ELLE editor to fall in love with the brand.

Sizes: 5-10

Colors: Pearly Blue, Beige, Black, Pink

Materials: Synthetic and recycled PVC

These are for the woman who wants a slightly more luxurious take on the iconic early-aughts flatform. I love the different shades it comes in, including this slate blue.

Sizes: 6-11

Colors: Glacial Blue, Black, Hazelstone, Blonde, Moonlight

Materials: Leather

There’s something about these that feel so rock ‘n’ roll—but then again, they are from Isabel Marant. You’ll be seeing me wearing these on the weekends at the dive bar with my go-to jeans and graphic T-shirt.

Sizes: 35-41

Colors: Black

Materials: Calf leather

I mean, we can’t forget about these playful Gucci sandals! They’re comfortable and make a statement for the woman who likes to add a funky touch to her summer wardrobes. And since they’re made of rubber, they’ll be über easy to clean.

Sizes: 34-12

Colors: White, Black

Materials: Rubber

It’s Stella McCartney’s bestselling platform oxford shoe, but in a summer-ready (and maybe fall?) mule form. What more could you need?

Sizes: 35-40

Colors: Black

Materials: Faux leather with wooden platform

Embracing your brat girl summer by channeling a sassy Bratz doll? I thought so—which is why I pulled these insane beauties for you.

Sizes: 35-41

Colors: Fuchsia

Materials: Calf leather