Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. Why trust us?

Ten best women's mules you won't want to take off all summer

Take your outfit from office to date with a stylish pair of backless shoes

Friday 24 May 2019 17:07 BST

‘The beauty of these backless shoes is that they are the perfect hybrid between flats and high heels’ (iStock)

If you ever owned a pair of chunky-heeled mules in the nineties, you’ll remember the benefits.

For those who have yet to don the humble mule, the beauty of these backless shoes is that they are the perfect hybrid between flats and high heels; they can dress up any outfit while still feeling casual.

The good news is that this ankle-flashing trend is back this season.

We’ve tried on endless pairs, ranging in styles from bright suede to Perspex, to find you our favourites.

There’s something for every occasion – although most of these mules will take you from the office to drinks with ease.

As the weather warms up, it’s time to put away the boots and paint your toes as you’re about to find your dream pair of summer mules in this roundup.

River Island leather ball trim block heel mules: £55, River Island

If you’re looking for an everyday mule for the warmer months, then this is the pair for you. These River Island mules are one of the comfiest pairs we tried: the real leather is soft and spongy to walk on and the wide straps combine style and practicality. Will a chunky buckle ever go out of style? It’s doubtful. We love the detail on these mules, such as the square 2.7” heel and the gold ball trim around the sole. This is a staple shoe that wins on comfort and quality, and would go with a number of different outfits. Also available in wide fit and in a range of other colours and prints.

Guilhermina Cross-Strap Patent-Leather Mules: £120, Anthropologie

What we love most about these vintage-looking mules is the egg-shaped, rather squat (at just two inches) heel, that gives a playful and modern twist to the classic crossover and rounded-toe style. Made by Brazilian brand Guilhermina on their home turf, it’s a quality shoe with leather soles and patent leather uppers. They’re easy to wear to work and, because of the patent leather, can be worn with a midi-length summery dress for a special occasion as well. We love them in yellow the most, but they also come in cream, navy and black and white snake print.

Missguided nude faux suede clear block heel sandals: £30, Missguided

The Perspex trend has taken the fashion world by storm this year thanks to designers such as Chanel, Prada and Yeezy, who showcased a range of translucent accessories, including heels, in their spring/summer shows. Fortunately, they aren’t as uncomfortable as they look. The four-inch block heel is chunky enough to walk in easily, and the clear wide strap is supportive. We loved pairing these with jeans and a simple tee to let the statement shoes do the talking. Be aware though, the faux suede does scuff easily, so be prepared to clean them.

Whistles arcade asymmetric mule: £129, Whistles

This statement shoe is the go-to for ultimate comfort and effortless chic, thanks to its asymmetric front design – which sets it apart from any other mules we’ve seen. Wear with white or black cropped jeans to really show them off, or long floral print skirts for a bright and clashing look. The 2.3” chunky shaped heel makes them low enough for everyday wear and they’re so comfy that we’re obsessed.

New Look mustard leather-look woven peep toe mules: £29.99, New Look

Yet another summer staple, we were really impressed with the quality of these mules from New Look. The faux leather sole is cushioned for comfort and the woven upper felt airy on hot days. We love this mustard colour that instantly reminds us of summer and the square toe is a stylish touch. The three-inch block heel felt sturdy and was comfortable enough to wear during the day. Pair this with a straw bag and a denim jacket and you’ll be summer-ready.

Miss Selfridge green multi strap mules: £20, Miss Selfridge

This deep shade of apple green is one of our favourite colours this season and we love the chunky block heel on these shoes, which contrasts with the strappy front and square toe. They’re perfect for someone looking for a comfy mid-height mule that can be worn day or night. These Miss Selfridge mules can be easily slipped on and off, but do be aware that these aren’t the best fit for someone with wider feet.

Public Desire paddington lace up block heeled mules: £29.99, Public Desire

The lace-up strappy heel has been a huge trend for the past couple of years so it’s no wonder Instagram-famous footwear brand, Public Desire has adopted the style. The matte-black sandals have comfortable and supportive padding on the sole, while the three-inch heel make these an everyday staple to wear with floaty summer dresses and denim skirts. Our only criticism was that the thick material of the lace makes it quite difficult to tie them up neatly on the leg, but we soon got the hang of it. Wrap the lace around the leg twice and tie into a bow at the back for a lovely detail that adds to your look.

Marks & Spencer Collection multi strap mules: £19.50, Marks & Spencer

Is there an outfit that silver doesn’t go with? We’re wearing these shoes with long, floaty floral dresses to events and dark blue jeans at the weekends. The top band of these strappy heels has a little piece of elastic to make it easier to get them on and off, but still fits snugly across the top of the arch of your foot. The two-inch heel is nice and low, meaning they’re great to wear for long periods of time too.

River Island brown chain block heel mules: £48, River Island

These mules scream ‘summer evening outfit’ – whether you’re in a beer garden or having dinner by the beach. The chain detailing on the faux leather straps make a statement without affecting their versatility with outfits – the tan shade goes with almost everything. We love the glossy snakeskin print on the block heel and square toe too. These mules were comfortable and very flattering on. At 3.7”, the heel is slightly higher than other everyday options in this roundup – but depending how brave you are, we think these would look great in the office with a pair of white wide leg trousers.

New Look black faux croc circular block heel mules: £25.99, New Look

Croc print is everywhere at the moment, so naturally we had to include a pair in this roundup. These are slip ons with attitude. The black patent material of the upper part of the shoe is lined for added comfort and we love the circular four-inch heel, as it balances out the bold look. Add an edge to a feminine look by pairing these with a floral midi skirt or blue mom jeans.

The verdict: Women’s mules

We love River Island’s leather ball trim block heel mules for an everyday staple shoe; the wearability, gold detailing and square heel make these our favourite. For something a bit bolder, we loved the arcade asymmetric mules from Whistles; the unusual design paired with the bright colour will make a statement all summer long.