Aside from handbags, shoes are a passion of mine. Just think about it...you can take a mediocre outfit and throw on a cute pair of shoes and your look goes from 'meh' to 'wow' in seconds! Now when it comes to shoes, there are millions of options out there, and most of us have a favorite. Are you a stiletto fan, or do you prefer flats? What are your thoughts on a sneaker? Do you prefer to mix it up with a wedge?
I personally can't get enough of every style, but there is one particular shoe which is making massive waves this summer and into the fall: The Mule. And for good reason. This shoe not only looks ultra-chic, but it is also super-comfortable with no chance of blisters on the back of the heel - the bane of every girl's fashion life!
So, if you're loving the idea of trying out a mule during this transitional season, let's check out a few ways to put a modern spin on this classic style.
The Modern Mule
If you're thinking the word 'mule' and old fashioned connotations are coming to your mind, stop right there! The modern mule is ultra-stylish, and looks more like a pair of sandals from the front, with an open back. This cute pair of neutral mules as seen on Lauren below are ideal for summer, and when paired with denim, like this pair of ripped white jeans, they look the part, and then some!
Photo Credit: Life To Lauren
@LifeToLauren
1. FRAME Le Garcon mid-rise slim-leg jeans 2. MILLY Off-The-Shoulder Blouse 3. RAY-BAN Shrunken Aviator Sunglasses 4. MICHELLE Deco Diamond Diamond Dial Bracelet Watch 5. TREASURE & BOND Chandelier Earrings 6. MEL BOTERI 'Taylea' Suede Fringe Leather Handbag 7. DAVID YURMAN Cable Classics' Bracelet with Gold 8. DAVID YURMAN 'Cable Buckle' Bracelet 9. 1.STATE Rexana Block Heel Sandals
Classic Mules
If your toes could use a pedi so you rather not have an open-toe shoe, mules are perfect for you! This pair of closed-toe mules as seen on Courtney have holes in the front for ventilation (a definite yes for summer), but the flat design makes them ideal for work or play. Pair them with a skirt, shorts, or a pair of jeans and you have the coolest look to rock, no matter the occasion.
Photo Credit: Kerrently
@Kerrently
1. IRO Lace-up printed georgette mini dress 2. MEL BOTERI 'Marissa' Small Tote in Black Pebbled Leather 3. BOURBON & BOWETIES Howlite Bangle 4. ASOS MARBLES Woven Mules 5. GORJANA 'Chloe' Small Stud Earrings
Most Wanted Mules
The small heel on the back of this velour criss-cross mule as styled by Alicia gives a tiny bit of height to the look, but is still low enough to be comfortable either for work or walking around the city. If you have a wider foot, go for a soft material that will give, and you will be comfortable regardless. This type of shoe is ideal for wearing with a skirt during the summer months, but can easily be paired with jeans when the temps start to cool a bit.
Photo Credit: Cheetah Is The New Black
@aliciamlund
1. FRAME Le Original cropped jeans 2. HELMUT LANG Cropped Top 3. MAISON MICHEL Fedora 4. BONE LEVY Diamond Flower Stack Ring 5. MEL BOTERI 'Marissa' Small Tote in Red Leather 6. PAT McGRATH LABS Bronzer Kit 7. BONY LEVY Amara Diamond Stack Ring 8. MANSUR GAVRIEL Suede mules
Colorful Mules
A colorful mule is actually quite versatile, and can be worn with just about anything to add the perfect pop of color. Jennifer's pair have a slight heel to them, making them a wonderful option when you want to add a little height without committing to a full heel or stiletto. I'm marking this one down as my next closet staple must-have!
Photo Credit: Style Charade
@JenniferLake
1. ROSIE ASSOULIN jumpsuit 2. ADIA KIBUR Beaded Tassel Earrings 3. NAKAMOL DESIGN Quartz Ring 4. PERVERSE Repost Cat Eye Sunglasses 5. MEL BOTERI Grey Saffiano Leather 'Watson' Tote 6. TORBY BURCH for Fitbit® Hinge Bracelet 7. KATE SPADE Bangle 8. MANSUR GAVRIEL Suede 65mm Mule Pump
This season's hottest shoe is certainly packed with options for fashion fun! How will you be rocking your mules this season? Comment below with your style ideas and advice.
SHOP MEL'S TOP 3 MULES BELOW
Looking for more guidance on how to spruce up your style?! Then tune in next week when we'll be showing you exactly how to wear the latest lip color with ease!