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Who could ever forget the memorable picture of Elton John, exuding confidence and flamboyance in his towering, glittering Platform Boots? But where did these flamboyantly high-soled boots originate, and how has their popularity ebbed and flowed over the years? This is a peek into the fabulous world of platform boots - from their ancient beginnings to becoming a hallmark of 21st-century fashion.
From practical footwear in ancient Greece to stylish armours of the rebellious 70s—Platform boots have made quite an exhilarating journey. However, the rise of the platform was not merely hinged on fashion alone but carried the weight of societal changes, stereotype challenges, and redefining aesthetics. So, buckle up! We are about to embark on an exciting tour exploring the evolution and impact of platform boots on fashion.
More than just a style proposition, platform boots served various purposes across eras and civilizations. They epitomized glamour in some instances, while in others, they functioned as symbols of power and uprising. But how did they manage to persist and recur in fashion forecasts? That's exactly what we are about to unveil.
The Debut: Ancient Times To The Renaissance
Platform shoes, such as high heeled boots, may appear a relatively recent phenomenon. Still, their roots trace back to Ancient Greece, where actors would heighten their on-stage presence quite literally by wearing platform sandals.
In the Middle Ages, platforms served a more practical purpose, namely to elevate the wearer off filthy streets during bouts of torrential rain. Known as "pattens," these early boots were hardly elegant, but they remained part of the common dress code until their sophistication increased during the Renaissance.
Through the sixteenth to eighteenth centuries, Europeans developed a flair for adorned platform shoes called "chopines". Predominantly for women, these chopines' height became a status symbol that distinguished the wealthy from the less privileged sections of Elizabethan society.
The Grand Comeback: Platform Boots In The 1960s And 70s
Skipping several centuries to the 1960s, we witness the re-emergence of platform boots as a fashion statement, driven by popular culture and an increasing openness towards sexual liberation and gender blurring.
As we ventured into the 70s, the platform soared to new heights—literally and figuratively. The decade experienced a massive trend towards more avant-garde fashion expressions. From glam rockers like David Bowie to bands like Kiss, platform boots became the beacon of extravagance, rebellion and shock value.
Societal Impact: Breaking Stereotypes And Guarding Individuality
Gender binaries were shattered as well, as an increasing number of men embraced platform boots for a more varied aesthetic landscape. By heightening men's stature and fusing masculine and feminine fashion elements, these boots came to symbolize a revolution against traditions and norms.
Platform Boots: Pros And Cons
From an aesthetic perspective, platform boots are versatile and make a striking statement. They enhance stature, give your legs a more elongated look and can be paired with various attires. However, they may not be the most comfortable walk around in, especially when novice wearers attempt to move about with grace and balance.
Down The Catwalk: Platform Boots In Contemporary Fashion
Contemporary labels like Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent and Alexander McQueen have all walked platform boots down the runway in recent seasons. Whether sleek suede or an edgier studded leather look, platform boots are making a comeback.
Conclusion
From their practical roots in ancient times to serving as a mark of rebellion, platform boots have left a significant footprint on the fashion world over the centuries. Today, the power of platform boots lies in their duality as both a nod to the past and a wink to future trends.
In addition to being trendy, they continue to play a critical role in challenging gender stereotypes and giving individuals the freedom to express themselves. Like most trends, platform boots have had their highs and lows, but their refusal to vanish indicates their inherent ability to evolve and stay relevant. Therefore, whether we love them or are daunted by them, it's safe to conclude that platform boots are here to stay, standing tall and proud in the fashion world's evolving landscape.
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