Madden Girl Mythical Flatform Sandal

Finding Your Perfect Summer Footwear Match

When the first warm breeze of spring whispered through my window last March, I knew it was time. Time to retire my trusty boots, bid farewell to closed-toe shoes, and embrace the season of sandals. But not just any sandals would do. This year, I wanted something different—something that would add a bit of height without sacrificing comfort, something versatile yet eye-catching. That’s when I discovered the Madden Girl Mythical Flatform Sandals, and let me tell you, it was love at first sight.

I’ve spent the last few months living in these elevated beauties, and I’m excited to share everything I’ve learned about them. From sizing quirks to styling tips, from color options to comfort levels—consider this your comprehensive guide to what might just become your new favorite summer footwear.

My Madden Girl Journey: How I Discovered the Mythical Flatform

I still remember scrolling through Instagram one lazy Sunday afternoon when I spotted them—these gorgeous flatform sandals that somehow managed to look both trendy and timeless. The caption mentioned “Madden Girl Mythical” and I was immediately intrigued. Could these be the perfect summer sandals I’d been searching for?

As someone who appreciates a little extra height (okay, at 5’2″, I appreciate a lot of extra height), but who has also suffered through too many painful hours in uncomfortable heels, I’ve always been drawn to flatforms. They offer elevation without the arch strain that comes with traditional heels. But finding the perfect pair—one that’s stylish, comfortable, and durable—had always been my white whale.

After that Instagram sighting, I dove headfirst into researching everything I could about the Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms. I scoured reviews, compared prices, and even visited a few stores to try them on. What followed was a three-month love affair with these sandals that convinced me they deserve a spot in every fashion-conscious woman’s wardrobe.

The Mythical Appeal: What Sets These Sandals Apart

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details about sizing, pricing, and where to buy them, let’s talk about what makes the Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms so special.

The most striking feature is, of course, the platform. Unlike many chunky platform sandals that can look heavy or overwhelming, the Mythical flatforms have a sleek, streamlined silhouette that elongates the leg while still making a statement. The platform itself is approximately 2-2.5 inches high, giving you that coveted height boost without the discomfort of a heel.

The upper portion features clean, modern straps that perfectly balance simplicity and interest. There’s nothing overly complicated about the design, which is precisely what makes these sandals so versatile. They’re minimal enough to complement a variety of outfits but distinctive enough to elevate your look above basic summer footwear.

What truly sets the Mythical flatforms apart from other sandals I’ve tried is how they manage to be both trend-forward and timeless. They nod to ’90s fashion without looking like a costume piece, and their clean lines ensure they’ll remain stylish for years to come. In a world of fast fashion, these sandals feel like a smart investment.

Sizing Guide: Finding Your Perfect Fit

One of the most common questions I see about the Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms is whether they run true to size, and it’s a valid concern. There’s nothing worse than ordering shoes online only to find they’re too small or so big they slip off with every step.

In my experience and based on numerous reviews I’ve read, the Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms generally run true to size. I wear a standard 7.5 in most shoes, and my usual size fit perfectly. However, there are some nuances worth mentioning.

If you have wider feet, you might want to consider sizing up half a size. The straps on the Mythical flatforms aren’t adjustable (more on that later), which means there’s less flexibility for accommodating wider feet. Several reviewers with wide feet mentioned that going up half a size gave them the perfect fit without making the sandals too long.

Conversely, if you have narrow feet, your regular size should work well, but you might experience a bit of sliding. In this case, adding a small cushioned insert can help create a more secure fit.

Another sizing consideration is the space between the straps. If you have high arches or a high instep, you might find the top strap a bit snug initially. The good news is that the synthetic material does stretch slightly with wear, conforming to your foot shape for a more customized fit over time.

Unfortunately, Madden Girl doesn’t currently offer the Mythical flatforms in official wide sizes. This is disappointing for those with wider feet who might need more than just a half-size adjustment. However, many wide-footed reviewers have found success with the regular sizing by going up half a size, so all hope is not lost.

Color Options: Finding Your Perfect Shade

When it comes to color choices, the Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms don’t disappoint. The palette ranges from versatile neutrals to eye-catching metallics and seasonal pops of color.

The core colors typically available include:

• Black (my personal go-to for maximum versatility)
• White (perfect for summer and creating a fresh, clean look)
• Tan/Cognac (a warm neutral that works beautifully with summer dresses)
• Silver (adds a touch of glamour to even the simplest outfit)
• Gold (my favorite for evening wear or adding interest to monochromatic looks)

Seasonal colors vary, but I’ve seen everything from pale pink and baby blue to bold red and even animal prints. The availability of these limited-edition colors depends on the retailer and the season, so if you spot a special color you love, I’d recommend grabbing it quickly before it sells out.

What I appreciate most about the color selection is how the different options can completely transform the look and feel of the sandal. The black version has an edgy, urban vibe that pairs beautifully with everything from distressed jeans to little black dresses. The white option creates a crisp, clean aesthetic perfect for beach vacations and summer BBQs. The metallic versions add instant polish to any outfit, making them ideal for occasions when you want to feel a bit more dressed up without compromising on comfort.

For my first pair, I chose the classic black, but I’ve since added the gold version to my collection and have my eye on the cognac for fall transitions. Each color has its own personality while maintaining the distinctive Mythical flatform silhouette.

Price Point: Are They Worth the Investment?

Let’s talk money—specifically, how much you can expect to spend on a pair of Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms and whether they’re worth the investment.

The regular retail price for these sandals typically ranges from $49.99 to $69.99, depending on the retailer and any special editions or materials. This places them in the mid-range category for fashion sandals—not budget, but certainly not luxury either.

Is this price justified? In my opinion, absolutely. The quality of construction, the versatility of the design, and the comfort level make these sandals an excellent value. I’ve owned pairs that cost twice as much but delivered half the comfort and durability.

That said, if you’re budget-conscious (and who isn’t these days?), there are several ways to snag these sandals at a discount:

1. End-of-season sales (August through October) often feature markdowns of 30-50% off the original price
2. Major holiday weekends like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day frequently include shoe sales
3. Retailer-specific promotions at stores like DSW, Famous Footwear, and Macy’s can bring the price down significantly
4. Signing up for email lists at major retailers often gets you a one-time discount code
5. Sites like 6pm.com and Nordstrom Rack regularly feature past-season colors at reduced prices

I’ve seen the Mythical flatforms discounted to as low as $34.99 during major sales, which is an absolute steal for the quality and wearability you’re getting. My advice? If you’re unsure about making the investment at full price, wait for one of these sales opportunities—but be prepared to act quickly, as popular sizes sell out fast when these sandals go on sale.

Where to Buy: Finding the Best Deals and Selection

When it comes to purchasing your own pair of Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms, you have numerous options, both online and in physical stores. Here’s a breakdown of where you can find them:

Online Retailers:

1. DSW – Often has the most comprehensive selection of colors and frequently offers promotions and discount codes
2. Amazon – Convenient for Prime members and often features competitive pricing, though color selection can be limited
3. Zappos – Excellent customer service and free shipping both ways, which is ideal if you’re uncertain about sizing
4. Macy’s – Regular sales and often has exclusive colors not available elsewhere
5. Famous Footwear – Frequent BOGO deals that can make these sandals an even better value
6. Steve Madden’s official website – The most up-to-date collection, though typically at full retail price
7. Nordstrom – Usually carries a curated selection and offers outstanding customer service
8. 6pm.com – Great for discounted past-season colors

Physical Stores:

1. DSW – Most locations carry Madden Girl and often have these popular sandals in stock
2. Macy’s – Shoe departments typically include a Madden Girl section
3. Famous Footwear – Widespread locations make this accessible for many shoppers
4. Nordstrom – Higher-end department stores often carry select styles
5. TJ Maxx/Marshall’s – Occasionally carries past-season colors at significant discounts

In my experience, the best approach is to try them on in-store if possible, especially if you’re between sizes or have wide feet. This allows you to get the perfect fit before committing. However, if you’re confident in your size, online shopping often offers better color selection and opportunities for discounts.

To find physical stores near you that carry Madden Girl, I recommend using the store locator features on the retailers’ websites or calling ahead to confirm availability of the Mythical flatforms specifically. Nothing is more frustrating than making a special trip only to discover they don’t have the style or size you’re looking for.

Materials and Construction: What Are You Really Getting?

Understanding the materials used in the Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms helps set realistic expectations about comfort, durability, and care.

The upper portion of the sandals is typically made from synthetic materials, most commonly a faux leather or polyurethane. While this might sound less desirable than genuine leather, it actually offers several advantages: the synthetic material is more water-resistant, easier to clean, and significantly more affordable. It also means these sandals are vegan-friendly, which is a huge plus for conscious consumers.

The footbed features a lightly padded synthetic sole that provides basic cushioning without being overly squishy. I find this middle-ground approach works well—there’s enough padding to prevent discomfort on hard surfaces, but the footbed is firm enough to provide adequate support.

The platform itself is constructed from a lightweight EVA-type material that gives you height without excessive weight. This is crucial for all-day wearability; heavy platforms can quickly lead to fatigue, but the Mythical flatforms strike a nice balance between substantial appearance and manageable weight.

One detail worth noting is that the straps are not adjustable. They’re fixed in place, which contributes to the clean, minimalist aesthetic but means you can’t customize the fit. As mentioned in the sizing section, this is something to consider if you have particularly narrow or wide feet.

In terms of construction quality, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the durability of these sandals. The stitching is neat and consistent, and the various components are securely bonded together. After three months of regular wear, my black pair shows minimal signs of wear primarily at the sole—which is exactly where you’d expect to see it first.

Comfort Factor: Can You Really Wear Them All Day?

Let’s address one of the most important questions about any shoes: Are the Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms actually comfortable for extended wear?

In my experience, the answer is a qualified yes. These are remarkably comfortable for a platform sandal, but there are some nuances worth discussing.

First, the positives: The platform design distributes weight evenly across the foot, unlike heels that place extra pressure on the ball of the foot. The footbed has enough cushioning to prevent discomfort on hard surfaces, and the lightweight construction means they don’t feel like you’re dragging bricks around all day.

That said, there are some limitations. While I can comfortably wear these sandals for a full day of normal activities—running errands, working in an office, casual socializing—I wouldn’t recommend them for situations that involve miles of walking or standing stationary for many hours. They’re fashion sandals with good comfort, not orthopedic shoes or athletic sandals designed specifically for maximum support and comfort.

The break-in period is relatively minimal. I experienced some minor rubbing from the top strap during my first full day of wear, but by the third wear, the synthetic material had softened enough to eliminate this issue. If you’re concerned about potential rubbing, wearing them around the house with thin socks for a few hours can help expedite the break-in process.

One comfort consideration is that these sandals don’t have adjustable straps. This means the fit is what it is—you can’t tighten or loosen them based on your activity or how your feet feel throughout the day. For most people, this isn’t a problem, but if you have feet that tend to swell significantly or if you need customizable support, this is something to keep in mind.

Despite these minor caveats, I’ve found the Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms to be surprisingly comfortable for their style category. I’ve worn them for 8+ hour days at work, for shopping trips, and even to outdoor concerts where I was on my feet for hours, all without significant discomfort. They’ve become my go-to when I want height and style without sacrificing wearability.

Style Versatility: How to Wear Them with Everything

One of the aspects I love most about the Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms is their incredible versatility. These sandals truly work with almost any warm-weather outfit in your wardrobe.

Casual Daytime Looks:

The Mythical flatforms elevate (literally and figuratively) even the most basic jeans-and-tee combination. I particularly love them with:

• Cropped wide-leg jeans and a simple white t-shirt
• Denim shorts and an oversized button-down
• Casual sundresses for an effortless weekend look
• Linen pants and a tank top for hot summer days

The platform adds a touch of intentionality to casual outfits, making even your most relaxed looks appear styled rather than thrown together.

Office-Appropriate Styling:

If your workplace has a business casual or casual dress code, these sandals can absolutely work in professional settings:

• Midi skirts paired with a tucked-in blouse
• Wide-leg trousers and a fitted top
• Summer-weight blazers over simple dresses
• Jumpsuits for a modern, pulled-together approach

The clean lines and minimalist design of the Mythical flatforms keep them looking professional despite the platform height, especially in the black or cognac colorways.

Evening and Special Occasions:

While these aren’t formal shoes, they work beautifully for summer evenings out:

• Maxi dresses for dinner on vacation
• Mini skirts and dressy tops for nights out
• Dressy shorts with silky camisoles
• Flowy jumpsuits for summer weddings (where appropriate)

The metallic options—particularly the gold and silver—add an extra touch of glamour that works well for evening events.

Vacation and Resort Wear:

These sandals are absolutely perfect for vacation packing because they’re so versatile:

• Beach cover-ups for walks along the shore
• Linen dresses for seaside dinners
• Shorts and tanks for sightseeing
• Flowing pants and crop tops for sunset cocktails

Their relatively lightweight construction makes them ideal for travel, and they won’t take up too much precious suitcase space.

What I appreciate most about the styling versatility of these sandals is how they manage to complement rather than compete with your outfit. Despite the platform height, they don’t scream for attention but instead serve as the perfect foundation for whatever look you’re creating.

Durability and Longevity: Will They Last?

When investing in any footwear, understanding how long they’ll last is key to assessing their true value. After extensively wearing my Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms and researching other long-term owners’ experiences, I can offer some insights into their durability.

The synthetic upper is surprisingly resilient against scuffs and scratches. My black pair has maintained its appearance remarkably well, even after being accidentally kicked against rough concrete and subjected to the general chaos of everyday life. The lighter colors do show dirt more easily but clean up well with appropriate care (more on that below).

The platform sole shows wear primarily at the edges and on the bottom tread pattern. After about three months of regular rotation (2-3 times per week), I’ve noticed some smoothing of the tread pattern but no significant deterioration of the platform structure. This is impressive considering how much stress platform shoes typically endure.

The area that tends to show wear first is where the upper connects to the footbed. This is a high-stress point in any sandal, and some reviewers mention seeing separation here after extended use. However, this seems to occur primarily after a full season or more of heavy wear, which is reasonable for shoes in this price range.

The interior footbed material can show compression and discoloration over time, especially if you wear them barefoot regularly in hot weather. This doesn’t affect functionality but does impact appearance if you’re concerned about how they look when you take them off.

Based on my experience and research, you can reasonably expect the Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms to last one to two full seasons of regular wear before showing significant signs of aging. With careful use and proper care, they could certainly last longer, especially if you rotate them with other shoes rather than wearing them daily.

Given their mid-range price point, this lifespan represents good value. They’re not investment pieces that will last for many years, but they’re also not fast-fashion items that fall apart after a few wears.

Care and Maintenance: Keeping Them Looking New

Proper care can significantly extend the life of your Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms. Here’s what I’ve learned about maintaining these sandals:

Regular Cleaning:

For routine maintenance, a soft damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and light dirt from the synthetic upper. For more stubborn marks, a mild soap solution works well—just be sure to use minimal water and avoid saturating the material.

The footbed can be refreshed using a soft brush or cloth with a small amount of gentle soap solution. This helps prevent buildup from skin oils and environmental dirt that can break down materials over time.

Scuff Removal:

For minor scuffs on the synthetic upper, a pencil eraser often works wonders. Gently rub the eraser over the scuffed area, and you’ll be surprised how effectively it removes surface marks.

For more stubborn scuffs on black or dark-colored sandals, a tiny dab of petroleum jelly applied with a cotton swab can help disguise them. This should be used sparingly and only on dark colors, as it can darken light-colored materials.

Sole Care:

The platform soles benefit from occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt from the tread pattern. This not only keeps them looking better but also helps maintain their slip resistance.

If the edges of the platform show scuffs, these can often be minimized with a matching permanent marker for black platforms or a magic eraser for white or light-colored ones.

Storage:

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the shape and appearance of your sandals. Store them away from direct sunlight, which can cause the synthetic materials to deteriorate or discolor over time.

I recommend keeping them in their original box or a shoe bag to prevent dust accumulation. If space is an issue, storing them with the platforms facing outward helps prevent pressure on the straps that could cause them to lose their shape.

Odor Prevention:

If you wear your Mythical flatforms barefoot frequently, odor can become an issue. A light dusting of baking soda left overnight and brushed off in the morning can work wonders for neutralizing any unpleasant smells.

Alternatively, there are shoe deodorizing sprays specifically designed for synthetic footwear that work well without damaging the materials.

Weather Considerations:

While the synthetic materials of the Mythical flatforms handle light water exposure better than genuine leather would, they’re not designed for rainy conditions. Excessive moisture can potentially affect the adhesives used in construction, so it’s best to avoid wearing them in heavy rain.

If they do get wet, allow them to air dry naturally away from direct heat sources. Stuffing them with paper towels can help absorb moisture and maintain their shape as they dry.

With these simple care practices, you can keep your Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms looking fresh and extend their wearable life considerably.

The Not-So-Perfect: Limitations to Consider

While I clearly love my Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms, I believe in transparent reviews that acknowledge limitations. Here are some potential drawbacks to consider before making your purchase:

Slip Resistance Concerns:

The platform soles do have a textured pattern, but they don’t provide exceptional grip on very smooth or wet surfaces. I’ve experienced some slipping on polished marble floors and around pool areas. If you’ll be navigating slippery surfaces regularly, these might not be your best option.

Limited Width Accommodation:

As mentioned earlier, the non-adjustable straps mean these sandals have limited ability to accommodate very narrow or very wide feet. While some size adjustments can help, they fundamentally have a standard width that can’t be customized.

Initial Break-In Period:

Some wearers experience discomfort from the straps during the first few wears until the synthetic material softens. This isn’t unusual for fashion footwear but is worth noting if you need something comfortable straight out of the box.

Platform Edge Susceptibility:

The edges of the platform can catch on uneven surfaces or stairs if you’re not careful with foot placement. This is common to all platform shoes but requires some mindfulness when walking on irregular terrain.

Not Suitable for Extended Walking:

While comfortable for normal daily activities, these aren’t designed for tourism-level walking or standing all day at events. They lack the arch support and cushioning found in shoes specifically designed for extended standing or walking.

Limited Half-Size Availability:

Depending on the retailer, half sizes may be limited or unavailable. This can make finding the perfect fit challenging for those who typically fall between standard sizes.

End-of-Day Fatigue:

The platform height, while modest compared to heels, can still cause some foot fatigue after many hours of wear. By the end of a full workday, you may find yourself looking forward to taking them off.

Seasonal Limitations:

These are definitely warm-weather shoes and don’t transition well to cooler seasons without looking out of place. Their utility is somewhat limited to spring and summer in most climates.

Despite these limitations, I still believe the Madden Girl Mythical Flatforms offer exceptional value and style. No shoe is perfect for every situation, and acknowledging these drawbacks simply helps set realistic expectations.

Final Verdict: Are They Worth It?

After months of wearing the Madden Girl Mythical Flatform Sandals in various settings and situations, my verdict is a resounding yes—these sandals are absolutely worth adding to your collection.

What impresses me most is how they balance seemingly contradictory qualities: They’re trendy yet timeless, affordable yet well-made, statement-making yet versatile, heightening yet comfortable. Finding footwear that successfully walks these lines is rare, especially at this price point.

I believe these sandals represent that perfect sweet spot in fashion—they elevate your style without requiring you to sacrifice comfort or budget. They allow you to participate in current platform trends without looking like you’re trying too hard or investing in something that will look dated next season.

If you’re looking for a versatile summer sandal that adds height without discomfort, the Madden Girl Mythical Flatform is your answer. Whether you’re dressing for a casual brunch, a day at the office, or evening drinks, these sandals adapt to your needs while consistently adding polish to your look.

Are they perfect? No—as we’ve discussed, they have limitations like any shoes. But they excel at their intended purpose: providing stylish, reasonably comfortable elevation for everyday wear at an accessible price point.

My recommendation is to start with a versatile color like black or cognac that will work with most of your wardrobe. Once you fall in love with them (and I suspect you will), you can explore some of the more seasonal colors or metallics to expand your options.

In a world of fast fashion where quality often suffers and comfort is sacrificed for trends, the Madden Girl Mythical Flatform Sandals stand out as a thoughtful option that refuses to compromise. They’ve earned their permanent place in my warm-weather rotation, and I suspect they’ll do the same in yours.