Product of the week: The unusual mule

What is it:

Mules are a classic shoe model with a long history in fashion where they have taken many forms. Invented as a bedroom slipper in the sixteenth century, the mule slowly evolved into a footwear trend that grew in popularity over the years. They became particularly popular in the 1970s and 90s and are now another example of trends that are reviving popular looks from those decades. Although the mule comes in many different styles, its main feature is that it can be easily slipped on without enclosing the heel. This season, this particular trend focuses on the edgier looks, similar to those seen on the Spring ’22 runways, that go beyond the demure looks that mules are typically known for and not quite as much add a subtle twist to your design. Chunky silhouettes, bold colors and alternative materials are paving the way for the recent comeback of the shoe, which demands that its wearers take a bolder approach to their footwear.

Why you want them:

While mules are generally known for having a very specific look, new trends have seen the look evolve into a whole host of new variants, making it a shoe that has the potential to become a diverse one to address customers. The mule can have an open or closed toe, a flat sole or a high heel, be pointed or square – the possibilities are almost unlimited. However, one of the main factors behind its popularity is the convenience it brings. Their open format makes them a popular choice for spring and summer, as they’re an easy-to-wear shoe option that’s perfect for the warmer months. But their versatility doesn’t stop there. Mules have become a staple of catwalks and wardrobes as they can be worn with almost any outfit. The shoe can effortlessly accompany its wearer from the office to after work, especially if it is a bit more eccentric. For these reasons, many customers opt for the shoe in the warmer seasons and have at least one, if not several, pairs in their closet to wear.

Where we’ve seen them before:

Mules were a staple of the Spring ’22 runway shows and the footwear of choice for many fashion houses. Salvatore Ferragamo turned to an alternative design, transforming the mule into a clog-like shoe, made from leather and denim and embellished with a buckle at the front. Miu Miu, on the other hand, took a more sophisticated yet daring approach to the slide in the form of a slingback model with an exaggeratedly pointed toe. Paired with loose-fitting socks, the mules with kitten heels showed an unexpected variety of details. Victoria Beckham took a similar approach, also adopting the kitten heel and pointed toe, this time with a retro-inspired scarf print in muted tones and a pretty square bow detail. In addition to a few curiosities and funny accessories, the Schiaparelli fashion house also decided on a new version of the slipper. For its Surrealist’s Holiday collection, the luxury house unveiled some intriguing styles, including some with what appeared to be gold-plated toecaps. On the other hand, the models have been provided with a tape measure on the vamp strap and metallic materials. Finally, in typical Versace fashion, Donatella presented a bold take on the shoe trend, offering everything from eye-catching satin designs to bright chunky looks. Many of the styles were directly inspired by the house’s coveted Medusa platforms, likely as an attempt to present the popular heels in a new format.

How to style them:

The versatility of the mule comes from its ability to complete countless looks. A mule in a bold color can make a statement. Despite the strong color tone, it is also suitable for more professional occasions thanks to its simple silhouette. Combine the mule with a business casual suit for a fashionable approach to the office or with jeans and a t-shirt for an everyday look that is still a bit more elegant and comfortable at the same time. These outfits can also be combined with mules that have a more structured shape, such as square models that have a classic look. For evening wear, the mule can be worn with a dress above the knee or a skirt and statement top to complete the look in the evening and give the wearer the privilege of feeling elegant and comfortable at the same time.

Ultimately, the bold mule is a statement piece of sorts that has the unique ability to be both fashionable and comfortable. The remarkable place they occupy on the catwalks this season confirms the fact that this is a type of shoe that will last for a while and continue to be a valuable addition to any summer wardrobe.