When the Gucci effect took hold a few years ago, one of the most accessible ways to master that grandma chic style was by way of a pair of flat mules. Part loafer, part sandal; part tailored elegance, part youthful whimsy, it was the shoe that would take you from day to night, ensuring that you always look your best. You can pair the flats with high-waisted jeans and a T-shirt for that off-duty look you imagine Jackie O sported on the regular, or slip into the style with a midi skirt (also a Gucci favorite) when headed out to dinner with your best friends. It was a few years ago that we bought a pair in black leather, which quickly turned out to be our gateway drug to the trend. And, so they say, the rest is history.
Since then, with each passing season, the trend has grown, as have our wardrobe with it. We are shopping for pointed-toe shapes, square loafers; velvet textures and raffia-woven looks alike. Our flat mules have knots and bows, embroidery and embellishment, and—of course—we’re still totally obsessed with our black leather favorites. Shopbop Fashion Director Caroline Maguire agrees, sharing, “I think the flat mule is a shoe that everyone can pull off. It comes back each season with different fabrications and updated prints that make them feel new again!” What’s more, she’s styling the footwear trend for day and night, telling The Zoe Report, “I like to switch up my wardrobe from easy denim with an oversized blouse for day, and transition to a belted maxi dress for night.”
No matter how you wear them, or how many pairs you already own, there’s always room for more. Maguire’s suggestion? Go plaid! She adds, “I say splurge on plaids! This print is always considered a classic.” While J.Crew’s denim look and the plaid pointed-toes from Nº21 top our list this fall, here are all the styles we’re shopping asap.
The Mule Effect
