CITYist

Ladies, it’s time to kick off the boots and slip into some playful footwear, and this season, mules are all the rage. I know what you’re thinking, mules?! Oh yes, mules!

While in the past, this classic backless shoe has been likened to those our middle-aged-yet-still-beautiful-and-slighty eratic-Peg Bundy-esque mothers might wear, I’m happy to report mules have undergone a complete transformation. Thanks to fashion evolution, the modern mule is now attractive, versatile and stylish as illustrated on the spring runway of fashion powerhouses, Louis Vuitton and Miu Miu.

The key to staying on trend is to keep in fitting with the colors and textures of the spring season –search for mules in pastels, metallic or leather and pair them with your everyday ensemble. If you’re headed to the office, pair mules with trousers or with skirts and dresses that hit right above or below the knee. The heels are high enough to present a chic, modern look but they’re not too high which ensures your feet, and you, are comfortable and happy throughout that 9-5 shift. For a casual weekend, complement mules with slightly cropped or rolled-up jeans paired with a t-shirt or a blouse and blazer. You’ll look sophisticated yet laidback. And if you’re on holiday, mules can make for the ideal footwear as they are easy to slip into and out of, so we won’t judge if you feel like carrying your shoes for an hour or two while walking barefoot…you’re on vacation, we understand!

Lastly, because mules have open-backed heels, be sure to purchase the correct size by trying on shoes in-store. Mules won’t look good if they are too big or too small, so search for a pair whose back edge lines up evenly with that of your heel, and stand and walk around to ensure they fit perfectly and comfortably without slipping off. And once you’ve found your ideal mules, you can once again belong to the world of fashionistas.

Louis Vuitton Merry-Go-Round Mule in Patent Leather and Suede ($1,460)
Available at select Louis Vuitton locations

Miu Miu Satin Mules ($750)
Available at select Miu Miu Boutiques or miumiu.com

Fendi Striped, Suede and Leather Mules ($760)
Available at saksfifthavenue.com

Manolo Blahnik Gerina Mules ($725)
Available at neimanmarcus.com