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One Shoe, Seven Ways: How To Wear Spring’s Best Mules

Whether you're heading to a rock concert or an important business meeting, the essential mule can be tailored to you.
dorateymur mule
DORATEYMUR mule, $485. 3x1 jeans, Marni bag, Chloe sunglasses, Monse top.
Courtesy of brands.

It’s no secret mules are one of the biggest shoe trends for spring ’16. The slip-on-and-go style, which has been worn by celebs such as Gigi Hadid and Rihanna, offers effortless polish to any outfit. But how do you make it work for your own personal style?

Whether you’re heading to a rock concert or an important business meeting, there’s a number of different mules on the market that can be tailored to you. Just remember that the style tends to read as more casual than dressy — meaning if you want to wear it to the office, you’ll want to look for a more refined, closed-toe shape.

Below, we offer seven different ways to style the essential mule:

For The Professional
While the old-school rule is no open-toe shoes at the office, who says you can’t go backless? Look for a pointy-toe shape and extra strapping. We see it paired with crisp trousers and a classic dress shirt (the shoes are enough of a statement on their own).

Watch on FN

gucci mule
GUCCI strappy mule, $895. Isabel Marant Etoile belt, Sacai shirt, Smythson notebook, Jil Sander Navy trouser.Courtesy of brands.

For The Rock Chick
For the girl who loves both the Sex Pistols and luxury goods, Giuseppe Zanotti’s chain-embellished style is for you. To balance the edgy shoe, we suggest keeping the skirt and bag simple. A subtle printed top and silver hardware earrings add polish.

giuseppe zanotti mule
GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI mule, $782. Sportmax skirt, 3.1 Phillip Lim bag, Alexander Wang earrings, Comme des Garcons Girl shirt.Courtesy of brands.

For The Boho Gal
Fringe lovers can get in on the mule trend, too. Paired with a gingham skirt and knit top, the elevated boho look reads more Françoise Hardy than Coachella attendee. Finish the look with a floral motif bag and rounded sunglasses.

3.1 phillip lim mule
3.1 PHILLIP LIM mule, $550. Preen skirt, Fendi bag, Illesteva sunglasses, Topshop top.Courtesy of brands.

For The Girly Girl
Mansur Gavriel’s suede mules are pretty in pink, indeed. For a more feminine take on the trend, pair the style with a denim dress (styled over a white T-shirt). An elegant clutch and subtle jewelry are the perfect accessories for a nice spring day.

mansur gavriel mule
MANSUR GAVRIEL mule, $625. Dries Van Noten clutch, R13 t-shirt, Ileana Makri necklace, Marques Almeida dress.Courtesy of brands.

For The Model Off-Duty
Ever wonder how models always look so great off the runway (besides, you know, great genes)? The secret is the shoes. Pair a leopard print mule with worn-in denim for an effortless vibe. A deconstructed sweater and metallic bag add “it” factor.

dorateymur mule
DORATEYMUR mule, $485. 3×1 jeans, Marni bag, Chloe sunglasses, Monse top.Courtesy of brands.

For I’m-So-Fancy Types
Mules for evening? You bet. Rene Caovilla’s crystal-embellished mule is certainly red-carpet worthy, and would add pop to a more streamlined gown. As for the accessories? We say go for it via colorful fine jewelry.

Rene Caovilla mule
RENE CAOVILLA mule, $1,295. Balmain dress, Ippolita bracelet, Delfina Delettrez earring.Courtesy of brands.

For The Beach Bum
While flip-flops may seem more appropriate for the beach, catching rays doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style. Gianvito Rossi’s cork mule adds a chic touch to your go-to swimsuit and kaftan. A printed crochet tote will carry your summer reads.

gianvitto rossi mule
GIANVITO ROSSI mule, $675. Tory Burch swimsuit, Koza kaftan, Hammamas towel, Sophia Anderson tote.Courtesy of brands.

Want more?

10 Best Loafer Mules For Spring 2016

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Gucci To Unify Men’s And Women’s Runway Shows

Jon Buscemi Talks Fall 2016 Shoe Inspirations

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How To Wear Mules: Spring 2016 Shoe Trend
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