If you haven’t already heard, the 90s are back. Big time.
Trends we’re seeing are t-shirts under slip dresses, mum-jeans (think Levis 501s) stirrups (yes you read correctly!) oversized denim jackets and the return of the mule. And I have to admit, I’m loving it all (OK, I’m not convinced on the stirrups- yet!)
The trend I love most are mules. Not being a huge sandal fan (big feet and strappy shoes aren’t a great mix in my experience) but the mule allows you to achieve a summery feel, get the toes and ankles out but not be so exposed.
One of the features I’m enjoying most is the block heel. It’s low, solid and comfortable to walk in. And it’s very versatile. You can also choose a higher heel, even a wedge for a dressier look.
The mule can be worn with cropped jeans (I stress the word cropped; mules don’t work so well with full length jeans) cropped linen pants, skirts and dresses.
How to wear mules for your shape
Like every trend, there are some do’s and don’ts that will help the style work best for you. There’s not too much that can go wrong with mules, but keep in mind the following:
Short Legs/Petites/Cankles
Avoid a mule that finishes further up your foot towards your ankle. This will make legs look shorter, a bit like a heavy ankle strap. Also, your preferred colour will be a neutral like caramel, blush pink or beige. Black mules can look very heavy.
Show some skin
Always expose the ankles. If wearing with jeans or casual pants (a jogger is perfect) ensure you show some ankle. The mule is quite a heavy looking shoe so you want to balance this out by showing some skin. You can roll up your jeans for a cool crop look.
Well heeled
Buff and polish those heels. The mule will expose your heels and if they’re not in tip-top condition, it’s not a pretty sight.
Whether you try a low or high heel, a neutral or pop of colour, enjoy wearing the mule this season with all your wardrobe staples.
Here are my top picks:
Tony Bianco: I have these in ecru and absolutely love them. I’ve since purchased them with about 4 clients (and counting!) The heel is very wearable and the soft suede makes them almost as comfortable as slippers.
Topshop: my first mule purchase were these white ones below from Topshop online in readiness for my overseas trip in July. They are still available in white, dove grey and a lolly pink. All leather, Topshop shoes are really good quality (and are slowly taking over my wardrobe, one by one)
Country Road: You wouldn’t expect anything else from Country Road than to be one of the first retailers to release this trend. Available in chestnut suede with an approx. 2 inch block heel. Great colour to team with all your summer whites, pastels and denim.
Wittner: If you’re after something dressier and with a higher heel, Wittner have a lovely style in pretty colours like peach but also available in classic black and sand.
Mansur Gavriel: this is where it all started. When the buttery suede mule started appearing on this New York designed, Italian made designer’s Instagram feed, it didn’t take long for the fashion set to follow. A little more exy (approx. AU$550) but the range of colours is to die for.
Asos: Asos stock a range of designers from cheap and cheerful through to well known High Street brands. I love these black mules with the wooden sole and heels.
Are you planning to add a pair of mules or two to your summer wardrobe?
Category: Fashion Advice, Shoes, Style Advice, Summer Fashion, Women's Fashion, Women's Shoes