Trend watch: the new mules

Mules were a big thing for us Club Forty-ers in the 90s. I remember clubbing in chunky flat-form mules but slipping off the back of them towards the end of the night and treading dangerously near broken glass (once ending up in a St Johns Ambulance with my foot cut open!)

They were the worst shoe to go dancing in when you think of it..

Well mules are back! And in many different guises.. there’s all manner of backless footwear on the shelves for Spring/Summer.

We’ve already seen the backless loafer (a style I’ve not been tempted with), and the classic 90s block heel with a peep toe (definitely NOT my thing this time around). There are also spiky-heeled mules, but I’m not even going to go there (arse-over-tit springs to mind!!!)

The new mule shape I adore is flat, pointed and closed-in at the toes, reminiscent of an Alibaba slipper.

Understated and chic, these mules look adorable when teamed with cropped-leg trousers. They look equally as good with culottes and midi skirts.

One of my previous employers didn’t permit open toes, so these mules would be an elegant solution in the warmer months if your office is the same.

Note: when bearing heels make sure you’ve had a good pedicure or attacked the dead skin sufficiently yourself! There’s nothing worse than cheesy heels on show!!!!

Where to buy:

I have mentioned before that Next is currently on a winning streak with its footwear. They have several fab options of this style of mule. My current favourites are these metallic versions (available in silver too).

Next, £35

Next, £38

As always you can rely on Zara to produce fashion-forward styles at incredibly reasonable prices. They are championing the tapestry/fabric versions right now. But you have to be quick with Zara – they don’t often restock as they move through the trends so quickly…

Zara, £29.99

Zara, £29.99

River Island have a simple, stylish leather version which has a chic point and comes in black or silver…

River Island, £48

River Island, £48

And last, but not least, the animal print options…

Top Shop, £29

Mango, £59.99

Mules are most definitely on my shopping list, but I am still not sure which type I’ll be purchasing… I am torn between a simple black, pointed pair (Zara did a version which has annoyingly sold out) or the metallic ones from Next.

I have dug out a pair of mules that I bought in Australia back-in-the-day. I’ve never thrown them out as they are so gorgeous with a floral fabric material in beautiful colours. However, the shape is square and my current lust is for pointy toes…

And I won’t be dancing in them this time around.. or at least not on a scuzzy dance floor with a sea of broken bottles at the end of the night!!!

So what are your thoughts on the new mules? Which style is your favourite? Are you likely to adopt this trend all over again?

As always, I’d love to hear from you!