So, you’ve probably seen them. Those chunky, almost impossibly cute platforms with heart-shaped buckles and more lace than a Victorian wedding—those are Dear My Love shoes. If you hang out on the "girly" side of Japanese fashion Twitter or TikTok, you already know the vibe. They aren't just shoes; they are the literal foundation of the Ryousangata and Jirai Kei subcultures. Honestly, it’s wild how a brand that started as a niche Japanese web retailer under the DreamV (Yumetenbo) umbrella has managed to become a global obsession for anyone who wants to look like a dark anime princess or a pastel doll.
The thing about Dear My Love is that they don’t do "subtle." You aren't getting a sleek, minimalist heel here. You’re getting a six-inch platform with a scalloped edge and maybe some detachable wings.
People always ask me if they’re actually walkable.
Well, yes and no.
What Actually Makes Dear My Love Shoes Different?
Most western "alt" brands like Demonias or Koi Footwear lean hard into the punk or goth aesthetic. Dear My Love hits a different nerve. They specialize in the Kawaii (cute) aesthetic but with a structural integrity that usually surprises people. The brand is a core part of the "Ryousangata" (mass-produced type) style, which is all about looking like a dainty, devoted fan of idol culture. But then there’s the "Jirai Kei" (landmine type) side, which uses the same shoes but in darker colors—black, deep burgundy, and navy—to signal a more "dangerous" or moody persona.
You’ve got a few main silhouettes that define the brand. The classic "Double Ribbon" pump is basically their mascot. It features two massive bows across the instep and a chunky heel that looks heavy but is actually made of a surprisingly lightweight resin or dense foam. Then there are the "Heart Buckle" platforms. These are the ones that really put them on the map. The buckle isn't just a shape; it’s a heavy-duty piece of hardware that keeps your foot locked in while you’re navigating a convention floor or a busy city street.
Let's talk about the "Dreamy" line. These often feature transparent heels or glitter finishes. If you’re looking for something that feels like it was pulled straight out of a Mahou Shoujo (Magical Girl) anime, this is where you land.
👉 See also: Executive desk with drawers: Why your home office setup is probably failing you
The Fit Struggle: Japanese Sizing vs. The Rest of the World
Here is where things get tricky, and honestly, where most people make their first mistake. Dear My Love uses Japanese sizing, which is measured in centimeters (cm) or labeled as S, M, L, LL, and 3L.
If you are a US size 8, you aren't an "S." You're probably looking at an LL or even a 3L depending on the specific model.
The sizing is very much designed for the Japanese market, which means the toe boxes tend to be a bit narrower than what you might find in European brands like Dr. Martens. If you have wide feet, Dear My Love can be a challenge. However, they’ve recently started introducing "Wide" or "Easy Fit" versions for some of their most popular heart-buckle styles because they realized their international audience was growing.
Always measure your foot in centimeters. Put your heel against a wall, mark where your longest toe ends, and add about 0.5cm for "wiggle room." That is your size. Don't guess.
Durability: Are They Fast Fashion Trash?
I've seen people compare them to Shein or AliExpress knockoffs. That’s a mistake. While Dear My Love is "affordable" compared to high-end designer labels, they are a significant step up from ultra-fast fashion. Most of their shoes are made from high-quality PU (synthetic leather). It’s soft, it doesn't crack immediately, and it has a slight matte sheen that looks more expensive than it is.
The soles are usually glued, not stitched. This is important. It means if you wear them every single day in the rain, that glue is eventually going to give up. I always tell people to keep a tube of Shoeboo or E6000 handy just in case the platform starts to separate after a year of heavy use. But for the price point? They hold up remarkably well.
✨ Don't miss: Monroe Central High School Ohio: What Local Families Actually Need to Know
One thing to watch out for is the ribbon attachments. Some are clipped on, while others are sewn. The clipped ones are great because you can swap them out, but they can also ping off if you’re caught in a crowd. I've lost a bow in the Tokyo subway before. It’s a tragedy you want to avoid.
How to Style Them Without Looking Like You’re in a Costume
Look, wearing these shoes is a statement. You can’t really "hide" a 4-inch platform with lace trim. But you don't have to go full Jirai Kei to make them work.
- The Casual Tweak: Pair the black heart-buckle loafers with oversized denim and a simple baby tee. The contrast between the "tough" denim and the "sweet" shoes creates a really balanced, modern look.
- The "Dark Coquette" Vibe: This is huge right now. Think lace tights, a black slip dress, and the Dear My Love platform pumps. It's moody but feminine.
- Office Goth: If your workplace is cool with it, the simpler Mary Jane styles in matte black can actually pass for standard professional footwear—until someone looks closer and sees the scalloped edges.
The brand also releases seasonal items. In the winter, they do these incredible boots with faux fur trim and pom-poms. In the summer, they have platform sandals that look like something a Bratz doll would wear to the beach.
The Cost of Shipping: The "Hidden" Price Tag
Because Dear My Love is based in Japan, getting them to the US, UK, or Europe can sometimes double the price. The shoes themselves might only be $40 to $70 USD, but shipping a heavy box across the Pacific? That’s going to cost you.
Many fans use proxy services like Buyee or ZenMarket to shop directly from the Japanese Yumetenbo site. This often gives you access to sales and "outlet" items that aren't on the international storefront. Another tip: check the "Used" market. Sites like Mercari Japan are goldmines for Dear My Love shoes that someone wore once and decided weren't for them.
Why the Community Obsession?
It’s about the "Transformative Power." There is something very specific about the height boost and the "clunk-clunk" sound of these shoes on pavement. It changes how you walk. It changes how you carry yourself.
🔗 Read more: What Does a Stoner Mean? Why the Answer Is Changing in 2026
For many in the J-fashion community, Dear My Love represents a form of self-expression that rejects the boring, "clean girl" aesthetic. It’s loud. It’s unapologetic. It’s about embracing a hyper-feminine version of yourself that doesn't care about being "practical."
Maintaining Your Pair
Since they are PU leather, don't use harsh chemicals. A damp cloth with a tiny bit of mild soap is usually enough. If you get a scuff on the white versions, a Magic Eraser works wonders, but be gentle—you don't want to strip the finish. For the suede-finish versions, you absolutely need a protector spray before you step outside.
If you find the platforms too stiff, try adding a gel insole. The interior of Dear My Love shoes is usually flat, and while the platform provides some cushioning, your arches might need a little extra love if you’re planning on a 10,000-step day.
Actionable Steps for Your First Purchase
If you're ready to dive in, don't just click "buy" on the first pair you see.
- Step 1: Trace your foot. Seriously. Get a piece of paper, trace your foot, and measure the length in millimeters. Match this to the Japanese CM size chart.
- Step 2: Check the "Heel Height." Dear My Love lists the "Heel" and the "Storm" (the front platform). A 10cm heel with a 5cm storm feels like a 5cm heel. It’s much easier to walk in than it looks.
- Step 3: Choose your material. Matte black is the most versatile and easiest to clean. Shiny "Enamel" (patent) looks amazing but shows scuffs much more easily.
- Step 4: Look at the "Weight." Some of the older styles are heavier. Look for descriptions that mention "Lightweight" or "EVA" soles if you want to avoid leg fatigue.
- Step 5: Compare Prices. Check the official international site first, then look at the Japanese site via a proxy. Sometimes the "International" price includes some shipping costs, making it cheaper than using a proxy for a single item.
Ultimately, Dear My Love shoes are a gateway into a very specific, very beautiful world of fashion. They are sturdy enough for the real world but designed for a fantasy one. Just watch your step on the stairs. No one wants to take a tumble in 6-inch hearts.