It takes a lot to shock me in the fashion department. I tend to wear unexpected things at times, so when other people do it, I'm rarely phased. That being said, shocked is the only word I can think of to adequately sum up my reaction to finding Angelina Jolie, the celebrity I associate most with anti-trend dressing, wearing one of the Y2K era's most divisive shoe trends, platform slide sandals, in New York City yesterday—and not just because it was 30ºF out.
At first glance, Jolie's chunky mules took me back twenty years to my childhood, when stars like Britney Spears, Posh Spice, and even the animated version of Lizzie McGuire frequented similar pairs. But after further inspection, I realized that while her shoes might be reminiscent of a kitschier time in the world of fashion, the way she styled them was anything but. Jolie did what I never thought was possible: make platform slide sandals feel timeless and elegant. It helps that her exact pair is made of luxe velvet and printed with Celine's signature CC logo. I should've known it'd only take a French touch to completely revitalize the shoe trend that peaked in the 2000s.
On Angelina Jolie: Celine Elena Mules ($1100)
Given the statement-making nature of her footwear choice, Jolie kept the rest of her look fairly understated, styling the platforms with a black jersey maxi dress and a slouchy gray cardigan. On the accessories front, she added black sunglasses and a navy blue wristlet.
Earlier the same day, the Maria actress was spotted wearing the same shoes in brown shearling, styled with black trousers and the same gray knit, further proving that platform slides are en route for a comeback. If you agree, scroll down to shop some of our newfound favorite pairs.
Shop platform sandals:
Talk about a throwback.
Ugg's New Heights line is J.Lo approved.
I suddenly have so many ideas about how to style these in a modern way.
You can't beat this price.
When you need an extra three inches of height, pick these.
The best thing about platforms is how comfy they are.
The little ties are adorable.
The second warm weather returns, I'm breaking these out.
-
Katie Holmes Just Wore the Cheap Styling Trick That Instantly Adds Outfit ValueLow cost, high everything else.
-
Sure, Black Leggings Are Timeless, But This Colored Alt Is Much More 2025It's inspired by a rare gemstone.
-
I Never Thought I'd Wear This Weird Sneaker Trend, But I Can't Stop Getting Compliments On ItThey're kooky in the best, most Miu Miu way
-
In 2026, Fashion People in Paris and NYC Will Still Be Wearing This High-Net-Worth Shoe TrendTimeless.
-
Suddenly, All the Chicest People I Know Are Upgrading Their Outfits With This Winter Accessory TrendInspired by the early 1900s.
-
No Offense to Sweatshirts, But This Elevated Basic Will Make Your Leggings Look Much ChicerA French-girl favorite.
-
The Elegant Outfit Hailey and Zoë Pack for Every Destination, From London to NYCNo matter what.
-
Not Into Trends? Renée Zellweger's Winter Outfit Combo Is 100% ClassicJust as you are.
