Right now, summer really feels at full strength. The temperatures are soaring, and the very idea of accessorising with anything beyond a hair tie and sunglasses is enough to make me overheat. At times like these, I find myself turning to shoes as a way to elevate my outfits without piling on the layers.
When the weather demands comfort, I look for shoes that combine minimal fabrication with maximum elegance—and this season, no trend has served my wardrobe better than the low-heel mule.
Thanks to their backless shape and barely-there design, they’re the perfect high-summer solution. But what really sets them apart, in my opinion, is the heel height. Not quite flat, but far from towering, the low heel strikes that sweet spot between polish and practicality—ideal for anyone commuting via the tube or simply clocking up steps in the heat.
From there, it’s easy to let the rest of your outfit follow suit. The beauty of this emerging style is its ability to instantly lift even the most casual ensembles. Just look at influencer @_livmadeline, whose low-heel mule pairing added a dose of elegance that a flat style wouldn’t quite manage, without taking away from the effortless feel of her baggy jeans and oversized shirt. Similarly, @deborabrosa used the style to dress up a boxy tee and knee-length shorts, bringing a fresh, elevated twist to an otherwise laid-back look.
Offering some serious competition to the strappy sandals that usually dominate my summer wardrobe, low-heel mules are making a strong case for the top spot. Keep scrolling to see the pairs that have captured my attention this season.
