Hermès is not a brand typically associated with bold shoes. The house built its footwear reputation on the flat, restrained elegance of the Oran and the Izmir — shoes defined by their horizontal proportions and their deliberate simplicity. The Hermès platform sandal offers an alternative: the same craftsmanship and the same iconic H design, raised on a sole that gives height without requiring a raised back. In 2026, the platform Oran and related platform configurations are consistently among the most talked-about and desired shoes in the Hermès footwear range.
For Hermès, a raised sole is not a fashion statement in the way it could be for a fashion-first brand. Instead, it is an application of the same design principles that guides all Hermès shoe design: proportion, material quality, and the relationship between the shoe and the foot. The platform adds presence without theatricality, and it achieves this through the same materials and techniques that characterize the standard sandals.
The Hermès raised sandal collection includes a range of different versions, differing in elevation and design. The most widely chosen option features a moderate raise of 30–40mm — adequate for clearly visible elevation and a modern profile without reaching the level of a dramatic platform. This intermediate elevation is effective for a broad variety VISIT WEBSITE of outfits and proportions, providing lift and visual interest without the wearability limitations of a taller or more dramatic version.
Higher platform versions — approximately 60–80mm — are available in smaller numbers and are typically seasonal or limited-release rather than permanent catalog items. These versions have a stronger visual presence and require a more considered approach to styling. They suit flowing, generous garment proportions most naturally — flowing wide-legs, maxi lengths, or floor-length styles — where the elevation contrasts with significant clothing volume rather than placed next to narrow, body-hugging garments.
The raised version of the Oran is available in the same material options as the standard sandal — Epsom and Swift are the most consistently available options. Epsom calfskin leads the platform lineup because the density of Epsom calfskin functions well against the more substantial profile of a platform sole. In terms of colorway, the platform Oran tends to follow the same seasonal color patterns as the non-elevated version but with a more curated selection — not every color available in the flat version appears in the platform version for every seasonal release. The most reliably stocked platform shades mirror the top-selling non-platform tones: the core Hermès neutrals including Gold, Noir, and Étoupe.
The platform Oran operates in a distinct styling register than the ground-level version. Where the standard version acts as a subtle finishing touch at the end of an outfit, the elevated version has more presence — it draws more attention to the foot and lower leg, delivers elevation and visual impact, and interacts more deliberately with hemlines. The most reliable formula uses uncluttered, elongated lines: flared or wide trousers that fall to just above the platform, mid-length or full-length skirts that allow the platform to peek below the hem, or shorter dresses and shorts where the complete profile of the raised sandal can be seen.
For formal moments, the raised Oran serves as a real option to heeled options — it delivers elevation and event-ready presence without the wearing difficulty of traditional heels, making it an excellent choice for events that require standing or walking for extended periods. According to Vogue‘s footwear coverage in 2026, high-end platform footwear continue to be among the most searched footwear categories.
| Platform Configuration | Height | US Retail Price | Best Styling Match |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moderate platform, monochrome | 30–40mm | $950–$1,100 | Wide-leg trousers, midi skirts |
| Tall platform, monochrome | 60–80mm | $1,100–$1,300 | Maxi skirts, flared trousers |
| Platform, contrasting leathers | 40–60mm | $1,200–$1,500 | Minimal, tonal outfits |
| Platform, exotic leather | Various | $2,500+ | Special occasions, collector |
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