How to Wear Mules | Shoe Zone (2024)

Last updated on January 17th, 2022 at 03:34 pm

In this guide

  • How should mules fit?
  • How to wear flat mules
  • How to wear heeled mules
  • How to wear mules with dresses
  • How to wear tights with mules
  • How to wear mules with skinny jeans
  • How to wear mules for work

Mules have seen a resurgence in popularity over the last few years, becoming a staple of most women’s summer wardrobes.

Wearing mules with shorts, floaty dresses, skirts and wide-legged trousers brings a cool, stylish look to any summer outfit. Find out more about how to wear mules in our comprehensive guide below.

How should mules fit?

Your mules should fit snugly, so they don’t slip or fall off. Equally, you don’t want them too tight, as this could cause rubbing and blisters. Mules should be comfortable, and you should have no difficulty walking in them, whether they’re heeled or flat. If you have slim feet, look for narrow-fitting mules – these will provide more support to your toes and prevent the shoes from slipping off. If your feet are wide, try regular or wide-fit options.

How to wear flat mules

How to Wear Mules | Shoe Zone (1)

Flat mules are probably one of the most comfortable styles of sandal to wear.

They easily slip on and off, making them the ideal footwear choice for lazy summer days in the garden or by the pool.

Great ways to style flat mules include:

  • Pairing them with high-waisted trousers and a loose-fitting jacket for a retro 90s vibe.
  • Adding them to fitted or tailored trousers to bring a classic touch to a formal outfit.
  • Wearing shorts or floaty skirts and dresses with more dainty mules.
  • Styling with skinny jeans and an oversized T-shirt for an edgy, relaxed look.

How to wear heeled mules

How to Wear Mules | Shoe Zone (2)

Heeled mules are also a comfortable choice. They support the insole and offer quite a lot of coverage to the top of the foot, too. One particularly favoured style is the block-heel mule, with its simple, clean look and ease of wear. What’s more, a wedge mule with a platform sole is a great way to elongate the appearance of your legs.

The best ways to style your heeled mules include:

  • Wearing heeled mules with skinny jeans and a favourite top as a day-to-night outfit.
  • Pairing them with wide-leg palazzo pants or linen trousers for a classic spring-summer look.
  • Creating a feminine look with midi-skirts or knee-length dresses.

How to wear mules with dresses

Wearing mules with dresses can help you retain a youthful look with an urban edge. For the best results:

  • Pair them with a relaxed jersey maxi dress and cropped denim jacket for a super-comfy look.
  • High-heeled mules can look great when getting dressed up for a night out. Team them with a shirt-dress for an informal summer look.
  • Create a relaxed, summer holiday look by pairing your flat mules with a floaty tea dress or sundress.

Can you wear tights with mules?

When wearing your mules with dresses or skirts, adding a pair of tights can work really well, providing you:

  • Stick to completely opaque tights – sheer tights are often a little thin and don’t mix well with mules.
  • Choose plain, non-patterned tights that don’t distract from your shoes.
  • Make sure your mules don’t have an open toe that shows the seam of your tights.

How to wear mules with skinny jeans

Pairing mules with skinny jeans is a good idea, regardless of the style of mule you go for. Skinny jeans work well with flat mules, sliders and wedge mules. If you want a more dressed-up look, wear heeled mules with skinny jeans.

Skinny jeans cut off at the ankle are perfect for keeping things fuss-free and letting some warm sunlight onto your feet.

Mules are so casual they make any outfit choice look more relaxed. If wearing skinny jeans, go for baggy, oversized t-shirts and thin jumpers for a stylish yet effortless look that’s bang on trend.

Can you wear mules for work?

Mules can make a nice alternative to your usual work footwear when styled correctly. Block-heeledmules with a sling-back can work well with trousers and dresses – but check with your workplace first.

Top tips for wearing mules for work

  • Stick with neutral colours such as black, navy or tan.
  • Stay away from heavily embellished styles – so no furry mules or those with pom-poms, which will look less professional.

Mules are a popular choice, and we can see why: not only are they bang on trend and easy to style, they’re comfortable and effortlessly trendy. Whether you’re wearing mules with skinny jeans, dresses or shorts, you’ll find that they’re one of the most versatile types of footwear out there.

If you need more help and advice on choosing the right shoes for your feet, follow our guide to shoe widths.

How to Wear Mules | Shoe Zone (2024)

FAQs

What part of your body would you wear mules? ›

For clarity, mules are those closed-toe, lightweight shoes that typically have no back to wrap around the heel. The unique silhouette provides a cool sensation for your feet during the summer months.

Where should your heel sit in mules? ›

The heel of mules whether flat or high should be centred underneath the heel of your foot.

How do you properly wear a mule? ›

How to Wear Mules: 5 Styling Tips
  1. Go for a timeless look. Try a pair of black leather mules with straight-leg pants or chinos and a trench coat for a smart casual look.
  2. Pair with skinny jeans. ...
  3. Style with a midi skirt. ...
  4. Try heeled mules for extra height. ...
  5. Wear with a jumpsuit for a trendy look.
Mar 2, 2022

How do I know if my mules are too small? ›

How should mules fit? Your mules should fit snugly, so they don't slip or fall off. Equally, you don't want them too tight, as this could cause rubbing and blisters. Mules should be comfortable, and you should have no difficulty walking in them, whether they're heeled or flat.

Can you wear mules with a co*cktail dress? ›

Can you wear mules with a dress? Absolutely! Mules look fantastic teamed with a whole array of dresses. Whether you are looking for a casual everyday look or an elegant evening occasion, there is a mule for every setting!

Can you wear mules with skinny jeans? ›

Pairing mules with skinny jeans is a good idea, regardless of the style of mule you go for. Skinny jeans work well with flat mules, sliders and wedge mules. If you want a more dressed-up look, wear heeled mules with skinny jeans.

Why do mules slip off my feet? ›

Mules. Mules are easy to slip on and off your feet. And that's the problem: “With any type of slide that doesn't have a back, your toes over-grip in order to keep that shoe from flying off your foot,” says Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, a Midtown-based doctor of podiatric medicine and surgery.

Do mules slide off your feet? ›

About the only downside of mules is that they can be unstable to the point of falling off your feet while you are walking. Luckily this can be remedied with the correct shoe inserts whether for high heels or flats.

How do I keep my feet from sliding out of my mules? ›

Here they are:
  1. Use no-slip shoe inserts. ...
  2. Spray your feet with hairspray. ...
  3. Use double sided tape. ...
  4. Put deodorant on your feet. ...
  5. Make the bottoms of the shoes less slippery.
Sep 19, 2016

Are mules flattering? ›

Mules are shoes that do not have an enclosed heel, essentially meaning you can slide your feet easily into them, in a variety of different styles from flats to heels, and sandals too, they're much more than a simple slip on shoe, they're ultra-flattering, endlessly, versatile, and suited for almost every occasion.

Can you wear mules with straight leg jeans? ›

Style Straight Leg Jeans with Mules

Pointed toe mules are great shoes to wear with straight leg jeans, especially during seasonal transitions. These work great with full length or ankle length jeans. If wearing with full length, a pointed toe mule will give the illusion of an elongated leg.

How do you know if a mule is too big? ›

Pick mules that fit your feet comfortably.

For a nice fit, your foot should cover the shoe lining completely while not spilling over any of the shoe's edges. If your foot is sliding around in your shoe while walking, the shoe is too big.

At what age do mules mature? ›

Now, it does make a difference in this, in that a mule matures at seven years old, roughly, in a general thought. The other thing is their knees need to be closed.

How often do mules need their feet trimmed? ›

Most equines will need to be trimmed or shod every 6-8 weeks whether horse, mule or donkey. Horse's hooves in general are proportionately larger, rounder and more angled than that of the donkey or mule.

What size should mules be? ›

Buy all your high heels with as perfect fit as possible with a ¼” to ½ “ space in front of the longest toe , and fit your shoe to the biggest foot. The longest toe is not always the big toe, so go with whichever toe you have that is longest. Go up a half size if in doubt about the best fit. You should be able to wiggle ...

Can you wear mules to a wedding? ›

A pointed-toe mule is the perfect way to dress up your wedding look, for winter weddings, evening ceremonies, and black-tie occasions alike. A bright satin style brings a nice pop of color, white neutral tones make for an elegant option as well.

Can you wear mules with a maxi dress? ›

Mules with Maxi Dresses

Mules/loafers/flats, whatever flat shoes you choose, are really fun to pair with maxi dresses!

Can you wear mules with a midi dress? ›

With sleek styles, I love my mules outfits with dresses with midi or minis. They add a refined look, especially with a kitten heel and elegant toe. Think a white mini dress with black satin mules, or a billowy summer midi dress with white strappy heeled mules.

Can you wear mules with ankle pants? ›

Pair your mules with a pair of trousers or black ankle-length jeans, and a loose-fitting blouse for a clean and casual look. This outfit is perfect for the office, or for shopping and going out to lunch with friends.

Can you wear mules with leggings? ›

You can also opt for a clog mule for a more casual outfit. Simple pointed toe mules will go with everything and with the right leggings can be dressed up or down. Cotton, suede, leather or animal print leggings look great with mules of all kinds!

Can you wear mules with capris? ›

A cute pair of Mules, particularly when they look like chic gold ones, looks classy with capris. Add a circular bag and a trendy wrap dress, and you've elevated capris' casual existence to a whole new level.

How do you calm down a mule? ›

Begin by rubbing the tissue all over the mule's nose and work your way up to the forehead and ears like we did with our hand. Remember to take your hand away before the mule moves his head. If the mule does move, keep your hand on the mule's head and ask the mule to lower his head using the calm down cue.

Why are mules uncomfortable? ›

Mules and slides are a trend of fashion that become more prevalent in summer however these types of shoes lack a heel counter or backing to the shoe making your heel slip and slide around the sole. This can lead to dry, cracked heels that can often become very painful over time.

Is it comfortable to walk in mules? ›

Known for being comfortable shoes thanks to the soft leather and suede used in the design, mules are worn by women as summer shoes, while many wear them well into fall, too. However, did you know this style of shoe may also offer significant health benefits?

How far can mules walk? ›

Mules could travel about 20 miles a day. They also were more surefooted in treacherous climbs due to the fact that, unlike a horse, they are able to see where they are placing their hind feet..

Are mules harder to ride than horses? ›

Mules are often considered superior to horses when it comes to trail riding—there's nothing better for riding in the steep mountains. They are more sure-footed, tend to be smoother gaited and because of the aforementioned self-preservation and less flight response, some consider them safer than horses.

Can mules be open toe? ›

Mules are basically any shoe that is backless. They can have a closed toe or even an open toe. The heel can be flat or high.

How do mules not fall off? ›

Luckily, though, it turns out that there are lots of ways to stay in on the trend while also ensuring that your footwear stays more secure: Look for tighter-fitting vamps, multiple straps for extra support, and maybe even a slingback or ankle wrap.

How do you train a mule not to kick? ›

Desensitizing. The best way to train a mule or horse not to kick is desensitizing the animal to the fear stimulus by getting him so used to it that he no longer takes notice. Desensitizing takes time, skill, and sometimes (at least initially) drugs. In the long run, the skills of a good trainer can be of great help.

How do you break in mules shoes? ›

The first day, wear them for 30 minutes around the house. This will allow your foot to adjust to the shoe and allow the joints of your body to properly align. The second day, 60 minutes inside or outside the house out and about. The third day, wear them at least two hours.

Why do people prefer mules? ›

They live longer than horses and tend to require less food than a similar-sized horse. They can also sense danger better and are more cautious than horses or donkeys, making them safer to ride when crossing difficult terrain.

Can mules carry more weight? ›

Generally speaking, a mule, or donkey, can carry more weight than a horse because of the unique muscle structure of the animal. However, an equine that is not conditioned properly will not be able to efficiently carry as much weight as one who is.

Are mules out of style? ›

KEEP: Mules

On the flip side, mules are still going strong and have become a classic in every woman's shoe collection.

How do you wear a mule with jeans in the winter? ›

Style your mules with a cozy sweater and flowy dress for an evening look that feels just fancy enough. Jeans make a dress and mules much more appropriate for chilly weather. Try layering tights with jeans and mules to add an extra layer of warmth.

Are mules considered smart casual? ›

For the Smart Casual Look

Whether you're looking to make your look feel restrained or more sophisticated, mules are a great bet.

Should you wear socks with mules? ›

If you're going with socks, think about whether you want to emphasize the mule with contrasting colored socks or have more of a sleek, monochromatic look where your mules and socks are the same color. Tights or thin trouser socks are a great option for a more classic, dressy look when temps are cooler.

Can you ride a mule bare back? ›

Mules love my bareback saddle, as do horses. I have over 600 of them out there, and not a single sore back. But, yes, mules need a crupper or a breaching.

How stubborn are mules? ›

Mules are less stubborn and more intelligent than donkeys

But a mule's intelligence also means that they are more cautious and aware of danger, making them safer to ride when crossing dangerous terrain.

How do you bond with a mule? ›

He needs to know that you are his provider and you are his herd leader. Get that mule out of pasture and put him in that stall – and then leave him there. Often we think of mules as dogs and want them to be “happy” – so we talk in high affirming voices, we give them treats and we love on them and show affection.

What is a female mule called? ›

Sex: Male is a 'horse mule' (also known as a 'john' or 'jack'). Female is a 'mare mule' (also known as a 'molly').

Do mules need a lot of water? ›

An average horse or mule requires around 10-13 gallons on a normal day. The amount needed will increase in hot weather and will be substantially higher when the animal is working hard. Like humans, horses sweat to cool down, and will need to replenish those lost fluids.

Are mules hard to keep? ›

Unlike a horse, if a mule becomes overheated, overworked, or overused, he will often slow down to a safe pace, sometimes stopping completely. Mules have very few feeding problems :they do not get colic and laminitis as easily as horses and require very little grain feed, subsisting beautifully just on forage.

Can mules see their feet? ›

Sure-footedness is the hallmark of mules, somewhat due to body strength, but more accredited to the fact that a mule's eyes are farther apart than a horse's eyes, giving the mule the ability to see all four of its feet at the same time.

Should you size up when buying mules? ›

When it comes to wearing sneakers, there's some room to size up or down. But because most mules do not have laces to adjust the fit, it's important to get the perfect size. If they're too big, you'll get blisters from having them slide around your feet or get sore ankles trying to walk without them falling off.

What do I do if my mule is too big? ›

Try shoe toe inserts

You can use toe inserts with all closed toe footwear. They are worth trying for open back styles like mules & slingbacks where you can't use heel inserts. I bought Sizers shoe toe inserts to try them out. They come in round and pointed toe versions.

Can mules have long hair? ›

The most noticeable points are its long ears, short thin mane, which may stand upright like a donkey's or be a little longer and flop over, and a tail which has shortish hairs on the dock a little longer than the donkey's but also has long hairs like the horse's, and is much fuller than the donkey's.

Why do people wear mules? ›

Relaxed Foot: Benefits of Wearing Mules

Known for being comfortable shoes thanks to the soft leather and suede used in the design, mules are worn by women as summer shoes, while many wear them well into fall, too.

Are mules good for your feet? ›

Mules and slides are a trend of fashion that become more prevalent in summer however these types of shoes lack a heel counter or backing to the shoe making your heel slip and slide around the sole. This can lead to dry, cracked heels that can often become very painful over time.

What type of clothing are mules? ›

Mules are closed-toe, open-heeled or backless shoes that are easy to step into. They were first worn in Ancient Rome and were popular as boudoir shoes in early 17th century Europe.

Is it OK to wear socks with mules? ›

If you're going with socks, think about whether you want to emphasize the mule with contrasting colored socks or have more of a sleek, monochromatic look where your mules and socks are the same color. Tights or thin trouser socks are a great option for a more classic, dressy look when temps are cooler.

What is a mule with a back called? ›

Flat mules accomplish this and have that sophisticated silhouette that even adds elegance to the overall look.

Are mules easier to walk in? ›

I tried out a pair and was hesitant at first — mules tend to be more trouble than they're worth aesthetically, in my opinion — but was pleasantly surprised by how easy it is to walk in them.

Why do mules fall off my feet? ›

Mules. Mules are easy to slip on and off your feet. And that's the problem: “With any type of slide that doesn't have a back, your toes over-grip in order to keep that shoe from flying off your foot,” says Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, a Midtown-based doctor of podiatric medicine and surgery.

Are mules good for plantar fasciitis? ›

Best for plantar fasciitis (and other foot issues: arthritis, neuropathy): Asportuguesas (by Fly London) Come mule. Alright, so maybe it looks too much like a house shoe/slipper, but if your feet are in pain and your work place is ok with this style, these are for you.

What season do you wear mules? ›

Mules: The Versatile Shoe For All Seasons

A pair of mule shoes can be worn at any time of year. If you wear them in the winter, they will keep your feet warm and cozy. They provide a little more comfort in the fall. In the summer, they look especially good because they're simple to wear.

What not to wear with mules? ›

5 mistakes not to make when wearing mules and clogs
  • 1 – Going sockless with rubber clogs. ...
  • 2 – Out-there colors. ...
  • 3 – Un-aesthetic socks. ...
  • 4 – Clogs with formal clothing. ...
  • 5 – The Ballerina Effect.
Jun 17, 2022

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