Shoe Trends
Mar 9, 2021

This Shoe Trend is Resurfacing Again and TBH, I've Never Loved It More

by Anna LaPlaca

There are trends that burst onto the scene and then quickly go dark after just a single season and then there are those styles that have a more slow and steady ascent into the spotlight. These are the trends that have a longer shelf life and even go on to fully become a wardrobe staple. In my book, heeled mules are the best example of this. The simple, '90s-inspired shoes are trendy, yes, but are also delightfully easy to wear and go with a number of things from jeans to dresses.

Personally, I can't imagine my wardrobe without at least one go-to pair, but as we move towards spring, my obsession with heeled mules is only growing. And I know I'm not alone, either. Everywhere I look from big retailers like Nordstrom and Shopbop to smaller labels such as Manu Atelier and Miista, the prettiest mules are proliferating—and the new styles hitting the market are cooler than they've ever been. So if you're finally ready to hop on the '90s trend or are looking to add another pair to your collection, I've put together an edit of the best 22 heeled mules I'm eyeing at the moment and a few outfit ideas to get your wheels turning, too.

By Far Lana Open Toe Mule

Lana Open Toe Mule

This beige hue may go with most of your closet, but this knotted design is anything but basic.

Bottega Veneta Stretch Sandals

Stretch Sandals

A new season means a new pair of Bottega Veneta mules.

Miista Frostine Velvet Sandals

Frostine Velvet Sandals

This rust color is simply stunning.

Calvin Klein Mega Kitten Heel Slide Sandal

Mega Kitten Heel Slide Sandal

The definition of a wardrobe staple.

Who What Wear Rachel Genuine Calf Hair Slide Sandal

Rachel Genuine Calf Hair Slide Sandal

We put our own spin on the '90s style and these baby buckles are my favorite detail.

Wandler Isa Patent Leather Sandals

Isa Patent Leather Sandals

This super squared-off toe really gets me.

Staud Marie Sandal

If there's anyone who knows a good mule, it's Staud.

Alias Mae Liv Mule in Chocolate

Liv Mule in Chocolate

Cloud heels are the new micro-trend bubbling up right now.

Alohas Twist Strap Mules

Twist Strap Mules

Is it just me or do these look like they'd be priced double or even triple what they are?

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Schutz Jessy Mule in Mellow Green

Jessy Mule in Mellow Green

The color everyone's wearing this spring.

Manu Atelier Naomi Slipper Sandals

Naomi Slipper Sandals

It doesn't get any more '90s-inspired than these mini buckles.

H&M Slip-On Sandals

Slip-On Sandals

The wisest $25 you'll spend all season.

Mango Knot Heel Sandals

Knot Heel Sandals

It takes a really good neutral color to get me to overlook my black shoes, but this pale brown is it.

The Attico Devon Satin Sandals

Devon Satin Sandals

This sculptural heel shape is making my heart beat a little faster.

Mango Heeled Denim Sandals

Heeled Denim Sandals

These are what I like to call a low-risk, high-reward item.

Mango Knots Heel Sandals

Knots Heel Sandals

So delicate and interesting.

Brother Vellies Luci Kitten Heel Mules

Brother Vellies

Luci Kitten Heel Mules

Wear these with a slip skirt, vintage jeans, or anything in between.

& Other Stories Heeled Sandals

& Other Stories

These basically style themselves.

Zara Ruched Heeled Sandals

Ruched Heeled Sandals

Considering each of the twenty-one shoes I just showed you, these are still one of the coolest pairs I've seen all month.