The Shoe Style I’ve Pledged My Autumn Allegiance To…
Not as revealing as a sandal, and not as covering as a trainer, the Mule style is terribly appropriate for the British weather. Perhaps not the most fashionable observation to begin this post with, but certainly one that crosses my mind every time I reach for a pair.
Regarding foot preparation, it’s minimal. Unless you go for a peep-toe version (I am fond of this type) then you can postpone your pedicure plans, and unlike the ankle strap styles of the previous autumn season, the Mule won’t cut off your leg, quite the opposite in fact!
They look great, there’s so many beautiful designs available on the high street, and they’re flattering too. It’s no surprise that the mule is going to be the footwear of choice for many this Autumn season and beyond.
Because hey, who needs ankle support anyway?
Slowly but surely the mule style of footwear has been creeping it’s way back into the wardrobes of Streetstyle’s Most Wanted for the past few seasons, with Manolo Blahnik always championing the style, and Balenziaga, Victoria Beckham and Miu Miu all creating their own designs, before Gucci stole the show for this season. Thanks to Gucci, they’re back with a vengeance this Autumn, with the iconic fur lined soles and embroidered designs already inspiring high street incarnations at the likes of H&M, New Look and River Island to name but a few.
My mule obsession began with – they went down a storm when I featured them on my instagram, and with good reason too. At just £55 they’re a steal compared to their Gucci counterparts; the flat embroidered style a tomboyish alternative to the heeled version, with much less risk of spraining your ankle.
Since then, River Island has been my go to for mules. I now own no less than four pairs from the high street retailer. I’ve since moved on to, the very design featured in this outfit post being my current go-to pair. With a Chloe-esque giant buckle detail emblazoning the vivid peacock blue and green fabric, they look far more high end than their actual price tag, often eliciting audible gasps from passers by who ask ‘where are they from?’.
I got them in black too, I couldn’t resist, and my fourth and final pair from RI, as you may have guessed if you’re up to date with my haul videos, is this beautiful . Teaming beautifully with my pastel wardrobe, the spongey leather is comfortable enough for a full day of fabulous wear.
How do I wear them? I hear you ask. Well, as demonstrated right here, my go-to combination at the moment is culottes, they can be straight leg, wide leg, floaty or structured, but the length makes for the perfect mule framing ootd. I’m also a fan of midi length skirts, or straight leg cropped jeans (bonus points if you chopped the bottom off yourself) and as well as being perfect for a day of meetings or in the office, they are also a great option for smarter occasions too – their comfort factor multiplied by chic points make them dressy enough for a wedding, while backless flat loafers can be dressed down for a formal office shoe.
The first time I wore my flat mules, I almost broke my ankle. Since then, I’ve become stronger, more aware of my weaknesses. Proper attention must be paid to your posture, and if you still fear that you’ll struggle, opt for a style that has a wide strap, or a style that bares only the ankle, not the toes too. The more support the better.
They look comfortable, and they are, but don’t be fooled by mules. Go slowly, they are not designed to be your running heels.
Shop My Favourite Mules
Shop My Outfit
Top by
Trousers by
Mules by
Bag by Karen Millen
Sunglasses by Valentino
Photographed by Charlie Irons using the and 75mm Lens
What do you think of the Mule Movement? Have you bought your first pair?
xoxo