Stripper heel is back, and it’s getting higher and better every day. Net-a-Porter will show you a slew of platforms that are taller than ever and high-heeled options that were not available a year ago. Designer-of-the-moment Amina Muaddi has been adding chunky platform mules since her spring 2020 range. Gucci’s extra-high platform pumps, the ‘Angel’, are moving away from granny chic and into a more sophisticated aesthetic. Giuseppe Zanotti and other household names are making a comeback. Jennifer Lopez was seen wearing the designer’s high-heeled platform boots on the set for the movie ‘Hustlers’.

So it seems like the stripper heels are back in fashion. It seems like yesterday that we had to give up platforms and high heels in favor of sneakers or more “sensible” or chicker heels. Are we back at square one? With extra high platform pumps and see-through plastic heels that are also known as stripper heels becoming trendy and chic,

J.Lo is certainly fueling the fire for the trend. With her Versace catwalk moment, and multiple campaign deals from Coach, Guess, and Versace, she’s back in the center of fashion.

Cardi B, Lopez’s co-star and star in “Hustlers” could also be mentioned. Cardi B was the first to make Balenciaga’s socks boots famous through her rapping about them. Now she is bringing high heels back into fashion. She wears sparkly silver platform sandals with straps that reach all the way to her thighs in the movie. At the premiere, she opted for Jessica Rich gold sandals to match J.Lo’s high-glamour Casadei pumps.

They have combined over 170 million Instagram followers. It’s not surprising that they are more involved in fashion – hello Cardi B wearing head-to-toe Chanel tweed at Chanel front row! – Their star-studded film and love for stripper heels is driving a new trend.

It’s not only the “Hustlers”, but all stars are loving these tall heels. The pop stars are collectively going all out when it comes to sexy dress lately. Tight minidresses and stripper heels have been the norm. Claw-like nails with extra long extensions have been the trend. Look at Dua Lipa, who is promoting her album in Mugler corsets and minuscule sparkly Versace/GCDS dresses. She also has claw nails, just like Cardi B, and lots of Saint Laurent chunky platform shoes.

It’s not surprising that footwear designers are following the lead of super stars. Sophia Webster presented a pair silver high platform shoes with a disco vibe. Malone Souliers was bolder than usual, presenting a pair gold satin heels with a platform, chunky heel, and crystal embellishments. The Attico also expanded their mid-heels collection with the “Greta” strappy sandal style with towering platforms.

This trend is relevant for everyday women, but it’s not for those of us who aren’t living on sets. Is it going against the feminist trend of easy movement in flats, sneakers, and kitten heels?

It seems that feminism doesn’t have to be limited to one look. You don’t have to wear heels or sneakers – which are still fashionable fyi. But you can also wear extra mini dresses or stripper heels and still be feminist. It’s your choice. It’s like the judgment has been lifted, and objectification of women is now something we can move away from.

Many women find it liberating to be more open about their sexuality. They aren’t just buying into the trend of stripper heels, but are also enrolling in pole dancing classes, which is gaining popularity at an alarming rate.

Yes, it is far from chic, according to traditional standards. But… It is chic.

It’s exciting to see how this trend is changing traditional gender roles and allowing women to be bolder and more open-minded. A few years back, the idea of pole dancing or wearing stripper heels was frowned upon. None of us would admit to wanting to try the look without a hen party.

Pole dancing is now considered a legitimate and empowering way to exercise. The high-rise platforms on the pole are more flirty than fun. Let’s celebrate that and we look forward to seeing you on the floor.