Why Are Women’s Shoes Called Mules?

Have you ever slipped your feet into a pair of mules and wondered why it’s named after an animal? The story behind the question “Why are women’s shoes called mules?” is as fascinating as the shoes are fashionable. It explores a huge chunk of history, revealing how they’ve become one of the women’s go-to fashion staples today.

In this post, we will explore mules' history, how they differ from slippers and clogs, people’s favorite colors, and more. Let’s dive right in!

The Roast

Mules have evolved over the years to be a crowd favorite when it comes to comfort and style
Mules look great in almost any outfit, including dresses, joggers, jeans, dress pants, suits, jumpsuits, and rompers
Although mules share some characteristics with slippers and clogs, they're made from different materials and serve various purposes
Mules come in different types, including leather, heels, and wedges; your choice of mules should be based on the type of look you want to go for

The History of the Mules

Interestingly, mules have nothing to do with the animal of this name. Their quirky name comes from the Latin word “mulleus,” which means red. In those days, ancient Roman Senators and members of the elite class used to wear them (red slipper-like shoes) on the Senate floor.

They were initially considered bathroom slippers, but they caused quite a stir when Comtesse d’Olonne, an icon of beauty in her time, wore a pair of red mules to church in 1694. So, the high-class ladies of French society adopted them quickly, and they became a fashion statement among the female elites.

Mules have been styled in different ways over the years, from being paired with flared skirts and high-waist trousers to flared trousers.

Throughout history, they’ve been cherished for being practical and stylish. Today, mules have become a key part of women’s fashion, worn as shoes, sandals, and slippers for various occasions during summer.

What Are the Different Styles of Mules Shoes?

Mules are versatile, stylish, and always ready for just about anything. So, whether you’re dressing for a special occasion or looking for something comfy to toss for a quick errand, there’s a mule for that.

Let’s check out some of the most popular mule styles to make heads turn:

Leather Mules

Leather mules are timeless and classic. You can dress them up or down, depending on the occasion. They also come in a smooth, polished finish that makes them suitable for professional or semi-formal settings. What’s more, you’ll find leather mules in various colors like brown, tan, white, and black.

Flat Mules

If you love style and comfort, you’ll love flat mules. They provide an unbeatable level of comfort because you can slip them on quickly and go about your day. While they come in simple designs, you can wear them for formal, semi-formal, and casual events. Some have a minimalistic design, while others have eye-catching details—the choice is yours!

Heeled Mules

Heeled mules are perfect for elevating your shoe game from laid-back to more noticeable. Instead of your everyday slip-on, they are more suitable for dressy events. The best part is that they come in various heel lengths, so you can choose what works best—chunky, low-block heels or tall stilettos.

Wedge Mules

Wedge mules combine the best of both worlds: a heeled mule's stylishness and a flat mule's comfort. The wedge gives them a solid base, making you feel balanced and stable. You can also wear them for extended periods with minimal ankle pain.

Are Mules in Style for Women?

Mules are one of the top types of shoes for women in style. Their popularity has to do with how they blend style with practicality and comfort. They are also super-easy to wear, making them handy for those who are always in a hurry (which, let's face it, is most of us these days).

Plus, they’re versatile because they come in different styles. Besides being comfortable, convenient, and stylish, designers keep developing new designs to keep women hooked, so they just might continue to be in style.

What Are the Differences Between Slippers & Mules?

Although mules and slippers share similar qualities (comfort and convenience), they have striking differences. Like slippers, mules are backless and easy to slide your foot into, but they can be open or close-toe. They can also be flats, high heels, or wedges, while slippers are typically flat.

Slippers are suitable for lounging around the house; some come in super soft materials like faux fur. They are also not meant to be worn outside, but mules are made for outdoor use.

What Does a Mule Look Like?

Mules are backless, closed-toe, or open-toe shoes. They come in various toe box shapes, including round, square, or pointed toes. Mules can also be flat, stiletto, or chunky.

They have no straps, so you can wear them quickly. Plus, being backless relieves the pressure that laces may put on your feet, like being too tight.

What to Wear With Mules

Mules are versatile footwear that can elevate most outfits on various occasions. They fit in easily, whether you’re dressing for a casual day out or a busy day at the office.

Let’s see some of the outfits that pair best with mules:

Jeans

Heels and jeans are a perfect pair, whether they are higher-heeled, pair-cropped, or ankle-length. A pointed-toe black mule looks great with wide-leg jeans. On the other hand, wider, baggy jeans are suitable for basic leather mules when opting for a relaxed look.

Dresses

Mules and mini or midi dresses give a chic look, especially those with kitten heels and elegant toes. If you want a smart casual look, go for basic mules with dresses.

Dress Pants and Pant Suits

Pairing dress pants and pants suits with mules gives a casual or chic look. Depending on how you style them, this combination can also be worn to work. Wear a sleek, pointed-toe mule with heels for a chic pairing when wearing wide-leg dress pants.

For laid-back looks, pair your wide or straight-leg dress pants with mules. This will achieve a chic and relaxed look.

Joggers

Mules and joggers are a fun, stylish pair. They make an interesting contrast as they blend playful with serious looks. Pair this with a leather handbag for more structure, and it will pass for a playful and classy vibe.

Even fancier, pair your joggers with high-heeled mules to take your outfit to a whole new level.

Jumpsuit & Rompers

Jumpsuits, rompers, and mules have one thing in common—they are easy to slip on! Pair a tailored jumpsuit or romper with a kitten-heeled, high-heel pointy, or almond-toe mule. Lastly, opt for a black outfit and use silver jewelry for an elegant look.

Leggings

Leggings are versatile staples that can be styled with almost anything, including mules. Pair your black or leather leggings with a flat, wedge, or heeled mule and watch the transformation.

If you want to look dressy, sequin leggings will help you achieve the look. Depending on your style and preference, you may add a jacket or shirt.

Flat mules are perfect for casual looks; pair them with neutral-colored leggings, and you’re good to go!

Shorts

Shorts are even more casual and playful. They are versatile, too, so you can dress them up or down based on your style and goal. Pair with oversized shirts with tucked-in tees for a chic and laid-back look.

Skirts

There are so many ways to style skirts with mules, whether they’re mini or midi. Tuck in a free sweater into a mini leather skirt and rock it with a heeled mule for a stylish look. A pencil skirt with a tucked-in blouse and a heeled mule also gives the same effect.

What Is the Difference Between Clogs and Mules?

Clogs and mules are often used interchangeably, but they are different. Typically, clogs have a closed front and an open or partially open back. However, while mules are slip-ons, they can have closed or open toes, depending on the design.

In addition, mules are made from various materials like leather, suede, etc., while clogs are generally made from rubber or plastic with a leather or synthetic upper part.

What Colors & Size Mules Are Generally Popular?

Some of the most commonly sought-after colors of mules include:

Caramel

People love caramel mules because they are neutral but not basic. They are also pretty versatile, so you can style them in many ways. For example, you can pair this MavHu Mule- Caramel Shortbread with a pair of office parts for a formal look and a pair of jeans for a casual vibe.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon-colored mules can be paired with specific outfits for a chic, laid-back look. For example, you can pair a mule like this MavHu Mule-Cinnamon with jeans or a dress. Cinnamon and grey, including olive and brown, are excellent color pairings.

Cow-Hair

Cow-hair-colored mules are loved and rocked by many because they are stylish and versatile. For instance, this MavHu Mule Splatter Cow Hair can be styled in different ways, making it a top choice for many people.

Giraffe

Giraffe-colored mules can be worn with plain colors and other complementary colors. People love this color because it’s unique, stylish, and can styled in different ways. An example is this MavHu-Mule Giraffe mule which can be worn with other colors.

Black

Black mules, like this Mavhu mule, are many fashionistas’ go-to's. They are versatile and can be paired with any color for various occasions.

Stay Stylish this Summer; Wear Mules

The right pair of mules is versatile, stylish, and durable, complimenting your look and reflecting your style. That’s why Black Tulip mules are sourced from the finest natural materials that stand the test of time. With various timeless pieces, there is a mule for different styles and occasions.

Visit our website now to explore the various mules available and pick the perfect one for this summer!