From NYC to Paris, It Girls Are Swapping Their Slingbacks for This Heeled Alt

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A collage of two women wearing closed-toe wedge mules.
(Image credit: @hoskelsa; Getty Images)
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Slingbacks, whether flats or with kitten or stiletto heels, are a timeless style that fashion people gravitate toward each season. While they will always remain in style, insiders—especially those in NYC, Paris, and Milan—are setting them aside in favor of a heel alternative: closed-toe wedge mules.

Wedge mules are not a new trend, but they have long been known for their open-toe designs that dominate spring and summer. Recently, however, they have started to appear in closed-toe, backless styles that fashion people are pairing with dark-wash jeans, tights and dresses, and tailored trousers. The focus on this style can be credited to Bottega Veneta, with its Jet Mule, and Alaïa, with its Cube Mules. While both highly coveted versions feature sharp, pointed toes that feel modern, Bottega Veneta's stand out for its sculptural statement heel, and Alaïa's for its classic wedge silhouette.

Alaïa and Bottega Veneta are the only brands strongly embracing the closed-toe wedge mule look. Luxury designers like Khaite and Dries Van Noten also offer options, but in their own unique ways. For example, Khaite has its Cloak Mule in a black leather version with silver studs, similar to the iconic Benny Belt and the new Jane Flats. And Dries Van Noten offers a closed-toe wedge mule with a rounded toe, available in dark green velvet or embellished designs—elements also seen in its handbags and shoes. Additionally, brands like Reformation, Schutz, and Zara have taken note of this shoe style, offering more affordable options for those looking to experiment with the trend.

So if you're ready to leave behind your predictable slingback heels for something more directional and fresh, keep reading for my curated list of the best closed-toe wedge mules and discover four ways chic dressers are styling them now.

How It Girls Are Styling Closed-Toe Wedge Mules

elsa wears a fur-trimmed coat, black cashmere tights, and alaia cube wedge mules.

(Image credit: @hoskelsa)

Style notes: This winter, keep your feet warm in closed-toe wedge mules by styling them with cashmere tights and a fur-lined jacket, just like Hosk did.

A woman wears closed-toe wedge mules with a matching pants set.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Style notes: Break up a printed trouser outfit with a pair of solid-colored wedges.

A woman wears closed-toe wedge mules with a leather top and leather skirt and fendi bag.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Style notes: Fashion girls in Milan know that mixing fabrics is what creates the chicest looks. Case in point: this outfit that features a leather skirt set and suede closed-toe wedge mules.

Dakota wears a leather coat, black top, black jeans, and black clsoed-toe wedge mules.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Style notes: Closed-toe wedge mules are the perfect way to make any denim outfit feel fresh and modern instead of "basic" or "dated."

Shop Closed-Toe Wedge Mules

Nikki Chwatt
Nikki Chwatt
Associate Fashion Editor

Nikki Chwatt is an associate fashion editor based in New York City. She joined Who What Wear in 2024 after writing fashion, beauty, and lifestyle content for WWD, Well+Good, Editorialist, and more. With a passion for personal style and the creativity that comes with it, one of Chwatt's goals is to help others understand that there is no such thing as a “good” or “bad” style; it’s just about putting an outfit together that makes you feel confident in yourself.