Top 5 High-Fashion Mules

Mules are big news for Spring/Summer 2014. Alongside the pool slider, they’re tipped to be one of the season’s biggest trends when it comes to footwear. Call it the Celine factor: we were hooked as soon we saw Phoebe Philo’s geometric version, and the rest of the fashion industry has followed suit.

We’ve rounded up five of the best, from both designer labels and high street brands, to point you in the right direction when it comes to mastering this slightly tricky shoe shape. Think clean lines, monochrome palettes and pure minimalism: this is a new take on the mule, unlike any we’ve seen before.

Leather wedge mules, Reed Krakoff

Who would have thought that a wedge-heeled mule could become so cool? Reed Krakoff has paired soft nude leather with a gleaming metallic heel, and the results are ridiculously covetable. Thanks to sharp lines and immaculate construction, what could easily look like an old-fashion slipper has become slick, urban and effortlessly cool. But what really separates them from every other style on this list is the square toe, which feels extra modern compared to the more usual rounded styles.

Croc embossed, Rag & Bone

We can’t get enough of these croc effect Enid mules from Rag & Bone. From the back they almost look sensible, with a thick, stacked heel that’s not too high, and a low leather back. But the grooved crocodile pattern looks incredibly luxe, and means you can wear them in the colder months as well as all summer. Wear them with knee-grazing culottes and mannish separates to really up the fashion ante: these shoes were made for leaders, not followers.

Glossed leather, Alexander Wang

If you’re unconvinced by the appeal of mules this season, try a more subtle sandal instead. This year the best ones are referencing mules with a low, wide strap across the foot, but are lighter on the feet and look a bit more subtle. This pair from Alexander Wang is our absolute favourite. In glossy black or white, the leather has an incredible shine and wraps right around the heel of the shoe. A skinny heel keeps things feminine, but the low strap still looks fresh and contemporary.

Sophia Webster

If minimalism just isn’t your thing, or you prefer your feet to look a dash more colourful, Sophia Webster’s appliqued clouds are for you. Her pink-trimmed sandals are a playful take on the mule, with a wide strap that wraps around the front of the foot, and the candy colours are a definite nod to this season’s pastel trend. The icy sorbet of blue and pink is offset by a clear Perspex heel – perfect for adding quirky, girly edge to boyfriend jeans and a classic white shirt.

Peep toe mules, Next

Unfortunately it’s mostly designer labels who are offering high-fashion mules at the moment, but we wanted to round out the top five with a more affordable option. This pair from Next has a chunky wooden heel and classic, black leather upper. The peep toe stops it from looking too simple, and they’re versatile enough to work with your entire summer wardrobe. We’d suggest torn-up boyfriend jeans a grey marl tee to begin with, if you’re still feeling slightly tentative with this trend.