GET READY to slip on and go: the best mules are on the rise, so we’ve picked this season’s favorites to update your wardrobe.
Mules have had quite the resurgence in recent years and it’s no wonder: this 90s style is easy to wear and looks ultra-chic for spring and summer outfits, whether it’s worn to elevate casual jeans or dress up your best dancefloor ensemble.
The beauty of the mule is in its many options: if you’re not a fan of super duper stilettos, you can always buy comfortable block heels and miniature kitten heels as well as larger models.
They’re also available in every design imaginable: from luxe metallics and brightly colored leathers to animal prints, textured fabrics and buckled beauties.
This season’s styles are more playful than ever, so don’t be afraid to lean into the shiny and completely “extra”. However, if you’re more of a minimalist at heart, there’s still room to go. Think sleek black designs reminiscent of Totême’s boxy leather mules or the low-heeled mules that work on dressy days.
Ready to find your ideal partner? We’ve scoured the stores and rounded up the best mule shoes below, no matter your budget.
What is a mule?
Still wondering what exactly constitutes a mule? Well, it’s basically a backless shoe with no closure. It can have a closed toe, as well as an open toe design – the latter of which became very popular in the 1950s with starlets like Marilyn Monroe.
Believe it or not, the design of the mule dates back to ancient Rome – but it’s said to have really taken off in 16th century Europe, when it was worn as a bedroom slipper.
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1. Dune March Woven Block Heel Mules in Natural
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- Dune March Woven Block Heel Mules in Natural, £85 at Dune – shop here
Don’t like acid colors and synthetic finishes?
While these are the mainstream trends, you can still go the natural route with mules – these woven heels from Dune are a prime example.
Sewn from sturdy canvas, they’ll lend a cool, summery bohemian vibe to anything you pair them with. Think white cotton, relaxed linens and lots of layered jewelry.
All you need now is a Balearic sunset and a fancy dinner for two. Happiness.
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2. Find heeled sandals for women
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- Find Women’s Heeled Sandals, £35 at Amazon – shop here
Brightly colored suede is always a great way to make a mule: especially in vibrant fuchsia pink.
This pair from Amazon’s own brand, Find, features a 6.5cm kitten heel that looks super dainty and stylish. Meanwhile, the suede effect finish is great for adding textural interest to an outfit.
Team it with cropped jeans or an ankle length skirt: either way, these shoes are worth seeing.
3. Bottega Veneta Quilted Leather Heeled Mules
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- Bottega Veneta Quilted Leather Heeled Mules, £655 at Selfridges – shop here
Bottega Veneta has been leading the mule comeback for several seasons now with some truly cult footwear. So if you have the cash to spend, they should be high on your wish list.
These padded, padded heels are crafted from buttery leather and bring plenty of drama, with an exaggerated square toe for plenty of angular attitude.
As a cream, they’ll go with almost anything too, making them a foolproof investment.
4. KG Kurt Geiger Symbol
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- KG Kurt Geiger Symbol, £119 from Kurt Geiger – buy here
Remember how we talked about the “sparkling and completely extra” course…
These Kurt Geigers are pure bliss on a shoe: everything from the clear perspex strap to the satin orange upper and triangular heel screams “statement.”
And then there is those jewelry embellishments. Multicolored and shimmering, it all adds up to a stunning design that deserves some serious airtime this Spring/Summer.
Pure fabulous!
5. Leather sandals with mango heel
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- Heeled Leather Sandals, £69.99 at Mango – buy here
If the delicate design of strappy mules gives you ankle anxiety, then you’ll want a more structured pair, like these sandals from Mango.
Crafted from 100% sturdy goat leather, the rectangular heel is on trend, while the caged effect will make your feet feel protected and locked in.
These are also part of Mango’s Committed range, which guarantees that they have been produced using sustainable fibers or processes.
6. The Drop Avery Square Toe Double Strap High Heel Sandal
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- The Drop Avery Square Toe Two Strap High Heel Sandal, £39.90 from Amazon – buy here
Animal print is a key trend for mules this season: it’s bold, versatile and super luxurious.
This snakeskin-effect mule is a nod to ’90s minimalism with a square toe and simple double-strap design.
With a 3.5 inch heel, the silhouette is ultra slender and elegant. For the price, we think these look way more expensive than they are, so be sure to buy them. You really can’t go wrong.
7. Dune Magnet Leather Block Heel Mules, Green
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- Dune Magnet Leather Block Heel Mules, Green, £90 from John Lewis – shop here
Talk about green dream!
In the hue of the moment, these block heels from Dune are synonymous with impact, from the crinkled crossover design to the slim block heel.
They are made of leather, so this is a mule that will last the distance. Why not pick a few greens from your wardrobe and see if you can go for a tonal head-to-toe look?
8. MIRAAZZURRA Rhinestone Strappy Pointed Toe Mules
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- MIRAAZZURRA Rhinestone strappy pointed toe mules, £54.99 to £64.99 at Amazon – buy here
If you’re looking for a mule worthy of wearing your shiniest cocktail dress, these rhinestone-encrusted heels are the perfect pair with the culottes.
We love that there are multiple options when it comes to picking up this super-shiny pair: you can opt for a respectable 6.5cm heel, a more chunky 10cm heel, or even a flat design if you want to shine without foot pain.
There is also a fabulous range of color choices: from sunshine yellow to bridal nude.
9. Essex Glam Patent Square Toe Post Strappy Mule
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- Essex Glam Patent Square Toe Post Strappy Mule, £27.99 from Amazon – buy here
Could there be a better name for a shoe brand than Essex Glam? We think not.
It’s clear what you’re getting when you shop at this online retailer: affordable, on-trend shoes with a dash of Brentwood attitude.
If that sounds a bit like you, then you’ll love these strappy mules. They’re shiny, noteworthy and feature a patented finish for that gleaming Essex vibe.
Even better, the little kitten heel means you won’t be hobbling in pain after a few hours.
10. ComeShun Ruched Band Square Toe Mules
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- ComeShun Ruched Band Square Toe Low Block Mules, £20.79-£25.99 from Amazon – buy here
Ruched mules have real designer flair and are a massive trend. But what if you don’t have the designer’s budget?
Well, step up these amazing shoes from ComeShun. With ruched ankle straps in a leather-effect finish, we’re obsessed with how they look.
And featuring a low block heel, leather sole and comfortable insole, they should be comfortable to wear – while making the most impact. Win-win.
MORE FASHION SUN SELECTIONS
Enjoyed our roundup of the best mule shoes? Then you might also like our pick of the best work shoes for women.
We’ve also rounded up the best flare leggings.
And check out our dedicated Sun Selects fashion section for more style tips, trends and products.
