Every summer, the summer shoe trend takes a new turn. After the white sandals seen everywhere, sunny shades like yellow are essential, while flip-flops take the height with small heels for a slightly more sophisticated look. And then, in the middle of all that, a pair that we mostly associated with carpeted living rooms and family vacation memories comes back to the forefront.
This pair are the flat mules. Long stored in the granny shoe box, they now emerge with a refined, almost minimalist style, adopted both in the city and by the sea. Easy to put on, incredibly practical, they go with an impressive number of silhouettes, from jeans to summer suits.
Why flat mules are back in the summer shoe trend
This return is part of a very clear movement: that of chic comfort. Flat mules, or micro-heel mules, evoke the 2000s while sticking to today’s desire for simplicity. We abandon acrobatic heels and complicated buckles for a shoe that slides on the foot in one movement, but which remains sufficiently worked to define a silhouette.
We find this logic in other models previously considered unflattering. The Crocs, for example, long seen as a simple beach shoe, now confirms its fashion status: entirely in foam, rounded shape, thick outer sole, multiple openings on the upper, atypical colors and sometimes platform sole. This shift shows that a very comfort-oriented shoe can become desirable, and mules are exactly in line with this trend.
What the new flat mules of summer look like
The flagship models play the retro card without falling into disguise. Flat or micro-heel mules often bare the toes, with a slightly square or rounded toe. They are mainly available in smooth leather or woven leather, a nod to past summers, but in more sober and refined lines, sometimes even very modern.
In terms of colors, natural tones dominate. Beige, caramel and soft browns enhance tans and go with almost any wardrobe. We also see more sunny versions, in discreet yellows and oranges, which brighten up straight jeans or flowing pants. Result: a pair that you put on without thinking, but which immediately gives the impression of a thoughtful look.
How to wear flat mules so they go with everything
For the city, they work perfectly with slightly wide denim Bermuda shorts and a white shirt tied at the waist. White straight jeans and an embroidered blouse also create a fresh ensemble, as do loose wide-leg pants that highlight any shoe. In summary, they are a great replacement for more classic sandals when you want a slightly more fashionable result.
In a dressier register, mules pair with a long flowing cotton skirt and an asymmetrical top, or with a close-fitting knit dress that structures the silhouette. To reinforce the summer spirit, a raffia shopping bag and XXL glasses complete the picture. At the office, they find their place with a light suit or linen Bermuda shorts and a blazer, as long as the materials remain neat.
How to choose comfortable flat mules for summer?
Choose a slightly thick sole, soft leather and a width that supports the foot without compressing it, especially if you walk a lot.
Can you wear flat mules to the office?
Yes, by opting for models in smooth leather, in sober tones like beige or black, combined with flowing pants or a summer suit.
What outfits go best with flat mules?
They go very well with straight jeans, a long skirt, a flowing dress or linen Bermuda shorts, completed with summer accessories.
Sources
- Grazia
“These granny shoes are making a big comeback this summer and they go with absolutely everything”
- Grazia
“Goodbye jeans Kate Middleton 44 years old prefers these much more chic and flattering pants which enhance all our shoes”
