As someone who lives for a good shoe moment, I'm always on the lookout for a new pair to add to my collection. For the past two seasons, I've seen a slow but steady rise of one style in particular—kitten-heel mules. The kitten heel is currently enjoying a huge resurgence, so I'm hardly surprised, and now I’m thinking back to the early noughties and the mixed opinions on the Gucci Tom Ford-era monogrammed slingback kitten heels.
If you think about it, they're like a hybrid between sandals and shoes, offering just the right amount of coverage whilst still letting your feet breathe. Plus, there’s no question of their comfort over higher heels, so it’s really no wonder I keep noticing them popping up at events, parties and even on the red carpet.
With their demure yet undeniably stylish appeal, these shoes have me obsessed. Crafted in various iterations from sleek leather to statement prints, they're fast becoming my new favourite footwear for spring and summer. Plus, the low heel adds just the right amount of elevation without sacrificing comfort, making them ideal for all-day wear, which if you ask me, is a very important element to consider when shopping for shoes. I favour minimalist, pared-back style, so I'm drawn to classic pairs by Manolo Blahnik and high-street brand L.K Bennett, but there's something very edgy about Miu Miu's strappy patent leather pair that's drawing me in.
Some of my all-time style icons have long been fans of slingback kitten heels. I live for the understated sophistication of Hailey Bieber's wardrobe, and a photo of her from last summer wearing a sleeveless white minidress with the iconic Manolo Blahnik Maysale mules in red lives in my mind rent-free. And then there's Who What Wear's U.S. editor-in-chief Kat Collings, who I spotted on IG in a pair of cream By Far kitten mules with a knitted skirt set and tights (pictured above)—an unexpected outfit but a great one nonetheless.
Styling these versatile mules for summer will be a breeze. I can dress them up with a flowing midi dress and oversized sunglasses, or for a more casual vibe, I'll be pairing them with oversized denim and a ribbed tank top for that off-duty-model look.
Keep scrolling for the kitten-heel mules that have caught my eye—I haven't yet decided which to go for.
Shop Our Favourite Kitten-Heel Mules:
In my opinion, these are the original and the best.
Just the right amount of texture for a minimal wardrobe.
This shiny deep chocolate pair is a subtle twist on classic black.
I can see these styled up with a dress and made more relaxed with linen shorts.
Raffia is always a good idea for warmer weather.
White satin open-toe mules from The Row? Yes, yes and yes.
I've already got these in my basket.
Can we take a moment for the colour of these Bottega mules? Just divine.
The cone heel and square toe make these feel so fresh.
You can't deny that Manolo Blahnik knows how to do mules.
The strap provides added stability.
These are one way to make an entrance.
Perfect for brides-to-be.
These would complete so many of the summer outfits I've planned in my head.
The satin makes this simple style extra special.
