Mules: what is it, which ones are in fashion now and how are they different from clogs?

If a woman wants to add zest to her look, she should turn her attention to shoes such as mules. Women's mules are famous for their wide selection of models from a variety of manufacturers. These summer shoes are distinguished by their unusual appearance and exceptional comfort to wear; they look harmoniously with any outfit from sporty to romantic.

Mules represent women's version of summer shoes without a heel and a cross strap through the heel, always with a heel.

There are many versions of the origin of this model, however, historians argue that the first mentions of them date back to Ancient Rome, when noble men studying philosophical sciences and holding high positions in the Roman Empire often wore sandals without backdrops. At that time, this type of shoe was made of leather, it was considered a symbol of special status and wealth, so only the richest people could afford such sandals.

Flip flops came to the countries of the Old World thanks to the crusaders. Over time, the fair sex took a closer look at the original men's shoes and made them an indispensable attribute of their wardrobe. This made significant changes to the design of the shoe. So, French women began to decorate light shoes with shiny sewing, bent up noses, pom-poms and down. In the early twentieth century, mules became popular with Hollywood actresses. In those years, exquisite sandals with sequins, stones, rhinestones and feathers adorned the feet of almost all film stars.

Women who are far from the fashion world confuse mules and popular clogs, however, the models have many differences. To find out how these flip flops differ, it is necessary to dwell in more detail on each type of shoe and determine their characteristic features.

The main distinguishing feature of clogs is considered their focus on wearing comfort. Accordingly, such shoes are invariably stable, they firmly fix the foot - the clog always has a solid wide base and a covered top. The most common are models with cork and wooden soles; products with semolina are in demand. The vamp (the part of the shoe that covers the top of the foot) is usually solid up to the fold. However, in recent years, fashion designers have been offering options with open toes, but even so, the leg is firmly fixed.

Speaking about the belonging of women's clogs to a particular style, this shoe can be attributed to everyday with elements of classics, thanks to the comfort and practicality. These models are increasingly commonly used for everyday active wear.

Despite the fact that mules can resemble clogs, nevertheless, these two types of shoes have many differences.

At first, mules in any design are always presented with heels, it can be low and almost invisible, but nevertheless it is always present. Secondly, mules are more graceful and feminine than clogs. The design of the sandals implies an open heel, the vamp can be with or without a toe, it can be pointed or closed. Fashion designers offer the most original options on perforated straps or straps.

Stiletto mules look harmonious in combination with strict classic outfits, they are suitable for evening wear. Models with low heels are more of a casual style, nevertheless, even street bows in combination with mules suggest a sophisticated and sophisticated wardrobe.

Modern designers present women's mules of a wide variety of styles, which differ in style, decor, usage patterns and degree of comfort.

Mules can be performed in the form of slippers, slippers, sandals or shoes. Looks very impressive mules espadrilles.

Depending on the design of the sock mules are closed or slightly open, in this case, the configuration of the closed toe can be pointed, rounded or square.

The vamp can be classic rounded, braided or asymmetrically cut.

Stylish decor can make mules a trendy and very elegant shoe; beads, rhinestones, as well as feathers, fur and many other decorations are used for decoration.

Mules can be made from a wide variety of materials, most often made of leather, suede or textiles, at the same time, the color palette is very diverse, you can find on sale black, white, red, yellow, blue, gold and many other models.

Unfortunately, these days on the market there are many unscrupulous manufacturers who offer customers a fake of well-known brands. You will not surprise anyone with this fact now, so it is important to know how to proceed in order not to be mistaken with the choice of a suitable model. Agree, it will be very unpleasant to pay a considerable cost for shoes and later find out that they have nothing to do with your favorite brand.

Most often counterfeited leather mulesWhen offering leatherette products, fake shoes are often so similar to branded shoes that even an experienced shopaholic will not see a substitution the first time.

However, there are some ways to tell the difference between real leather and cheap material.Of course, the simplest test is to burn the surface of the shoe... However, this way you can significantly spoil the product and then you will have to pay for it. There are much safer methods for assessing the quality of real mules. First, touch the material and wait - if the coating is made of leather, then in a couple of minutes it will take on the temperature of the human body.

Another point worth paying attention to is the thickness, for real leather, this parameter varies from 0.8 to 1.2 mm... If the thickness of the material of the shoes offered to you is less than the specified range, most likely, your shoes are nothing more than a fake - it is better to refuse such a purchase right away.

When choosing a model, be sure to pay attention to both copies of the pair offered to you: there should be no differences in stitching parts, shades and fastenings, the seams should be even on both flip flops. Heels should be carefully examined - differences in their height, as well as the presence of chips, are not allowed. Be sure to inspect the sole - it can tell a lot about the true quality of the purchased product. If you notice tears and irregularities on the surface, immediately abandon the purchase.

Keep in mind: if you do not pay enough attention to assessing the quality of shoes, then instead of real branded mules, you risk getting low-quality slippers from China at an overpriced price.

Over the years, mules have repeatedly undergone design changes. V In recent years, the following trends have emerged.

• Sock... In addition to the rounded toe, pointed-toed models began to be in demand among the fair sex. This old trend is back at its peak and has become truly universal. Such mules harmoniously emphasize evening dresses, complement business suits, invariably giving their owner a refined and sophisticated image, and decorative additions make branded models even more unusual and original.

• In recent seasons, fashion has taken a sharp turn in favor of naturalness. That is why the flat sole has become popular again. A low rise is an excellent option for everyday wear, as such products do not create an increased load on the spine. It is the best choice for women who love hiking, as well as active people who prefer urban or sporty clothing.

• Special attention is paid to the decoration. Here, creative ideas have absolutely no restrictions: among the models of famous brands, you can find mules with a top painted with paints, embroidery with shiny threads or beads. Products decorated with stones, applique, textile flowers, intricate fasteners and buckles are in great demand. One of the most unusual trends in recent years is mules with fur and pompoms. This trend arose not so long ago and has not yet had time to become widespread among fashionistas.

Mules are included in the collections of footwear of many brands with a worldwide reputation, the most famous are the products of firms Balenciaga, Gucci, H&M, Zara.

The mules of these brands can be quite elegant, however, and their cost is quite high, which is why many more budget brands offer alternatives that are available to most of our compatriots.

So if the price mules by Gucci seems to you unreasonably tall, but you always want to look stylish, then you should pay attention to the ASOS brand. A spectacular version of a mule with a pointed toe and a metal buckle, perfect for everyday office work and daily walks. These shoes are a bit like slippers, nevertheless, the models of this brand allow any woman to create the most elegant image.

Derek lam offers quite a few interesting designs of mules, but the most popular among women are model "Tokyo"... Its peculiarity lies in the decor that reflects the style and spirit of Asia. You can buy such slippers in a variety of colors, but the most stylish ones are those in blue. This juicy color immediately catches the eye of others; such mules can effectively complement kimono-style blouses or dresses with flared sleeves.

A rather interesting look will turn out if you combine this model's mules with a skirt or flared trousers. This model is more suitable for a luxurious party, but not for everyday use.

Classics never go out of style, so bold Need Supply mules always look harmonious... Everything is extremely simple here: shoes of this brand are black, white or gray, there is no place for prints with rhinestones, lace or any other decorative elements. These models look perfect with jeans and hoodies.

If you are uncomfortable in heels, but you like to be bright and attract the attention of others, you should pay attention to exquisite TOPSHOP shoes. Textile mules with satin ribbon create a feeling of lightness and airiness. In fact, these are the most common home slippers, however, more stylish and effective.

The main advantage of this shoe is that, thanks to the correctly selected heel and style, it can significantly lengthen your legs, making its owner more refined and sophisticated. Mules are summer shoes, they are worn only with the onset of the warm season, the option is optimal for making sets with a light wardrobe.

Fashion experts give advice on what to wear mules with.

• With summer dresses and sundresses of calm colors.
• A strict business suit can harmoniously complement mules with a closed nose.
• For everyday wear, give preference to models with laces and fasteners.
• The mules, the top of which is made of textile materials, are usually decorated with narrow stripes - such options effectively emphasize the style, the attributes of which are pipe jeans, trousers or shorts.
• Decorated with rhinestones, brooches and large bows, mules with thin stiletto heels will look harmonious for an evening out. Keep in mind - smart models of bright colors do not need to be combined with office clothes, such a tandem will be inappropriate.

Pay special attention to the heel - for women with full ankles and large hips, it is better to give preference to the square shape, and the owners of slender legs should opt for models with thin stiletto heels.

Mules are quite unusual shoes, so remember a few rules to help you avoid stylistic blunders.

• It is not recommended to wear open-toed mules with socks and tights.
• You should not wear mules along with evening dresses - for going to a secular party it is better to choose classic pumps, but mules will become very appropriate as a cocktail option.
• Mules can be worn to work, however, for serious business negotiations, it is better to give preference to classic shoes.
• Massive options on a wooden sole will not go well with tapered mini skirts and tight-fitting trousers.
• Mules should not be worn with a year-old skirt; it looks quite old-fashioned.
• No need to wear flip flops with an abundance of decor for everyday wear, let embroidery, as well as flowers, bows and stones remain for festive occasions.
• And most importantly, keep in mind that these shoes are only suitable for well-groomed feet, so pay special attention to your pedicure.

The main advantage of a mule is its convenience and comfort. However, any footwear should harmoniously fit into the overall ensemble, emphasizing the image of a woman and her impeccable taste.

• The mules look very impressive in combination with a dress with a light floral print. The ensemble is suitable for real ladies, in this form you can go to the theater, restaurant and on a date to an art gallery.

• Paying tribute to the fashion of the 90s, you can use mules and stylish overalls in tandem, while the latter can be denim, as well as knitted or even silk. Here you can use the rules of the game using contrasts with maximum benefit.

• Mules in combination with a mid-length skirt can be called a classic, which can be diversified using the most daring options, for example, slippers decorated with rhinestones or textile flowers.

• We draw your attention to the fact that mules reduce the degree of formality of a business bow, so if a serious business meeting awaits you, then the combination of a suit and shoes without a back will not be the most competent. But if you are planning a romantic date, then this option with a pantsuit will hit the bull's eye. In such an ensemble, a woman will look sexy, mysterious and at the same time original.

• Mules are sometimes combined with an evening dress in order to achieve the maximum femininity of the look. In this case, you should choose satin or velvet models with high heels, it is advisable to complement the model with a buckle made of stones or crystals. Several seasons ago, such models broke all world sales records and today they are again widely represented in the collections of the famous brands Manolo Blahnik and Gucci.

• With wide trousers. This is the most sporty option of all the acceptable ones, therefore, mules must be selected accordingly - on a flat sole, monochromatic, without decorative elements.