By Regina Due, Fashion & Beauty Editor-at-Large
Shoe lovers revel in mule shoes. They have been a crowd pleaser for centuries, originating as boudoir slippers worn by the French aristocracy. They did fall out of favor for a bit, as they became common shoes of prostitutes, but they regained their popularity with time.
It’s easy to see why this type of shoe is the best flat shoe around — easy to slip off and on as they have no backs. Mule shoes are exceptionally versatile and comfortable. Today’s versions have evolved from bedroom slippers to open-toe and close-toe versions, as well as flat heel and high-heeled options. Mules are usually made of suede, leather, canvas or cloth. You can find simple unadorned mules and mules decorated with beads, buckles and bows. The French wore them with feathers, too! You can even find embroidered and embossed mules. They are perfect for summer, fall and spring, as well as for winter as indoor wear. You can wear them almost anywhere from a night on the town and weddings to cocktail parties and when relaxing about with friends.
With such a cute name, who could resist these mules with their tiny heels? They are for those who hate high heels, towering over others or have difficulty balancing on thin stiletto heels. They are great for a night on the town or any special occasion. There’s nothing cuter than a pair of kitten heel mules with jeans, too.
Perfect with jeans, a sundress or cocktail dress, these mules get a lot of bang for the buck. Add these as a quick way to jazz up your wardrobe.
Not quite a sandal, and usually, but not always, flat, the espadrilles are known for their canvas or cloth upper and flexible esparto rope sole. They are perfect for everyday wear and have a summery feel, which is perfect for walks on the boardwalk or traveling to exotic climes.
Easy to slip on and off, mule slides are perfect for everyday wear. You can get them in a dressy sneaker version. They make the perfect companion to jeans, jogger pants and shorts. Spring or summer, these mules are stylish, comfortable and weather-appropriate shoes.
You can even get these in collapsible backs, so they can transition from slides to loafers. On your way to work on hot days, wear them as slides, then pull out the back and tah-dah, you’ve got loafers!
The best part of mule slides is no more blisters on your heels. Very trendy, yet timeless, mules are versatile and the perfect asset to your wardrobe!