Just when we thought we’d seen every shoe trend under the sun, sneaker mules quietly slipped onto the scene. Effortless, unexpected, and surprisingly chic, they’re the shoe to reach for when a ballet flat feels too delicate and a boot feels too heavy. This season, they’re shaping up to be fall’s most-spotted street-style pick.
The sneaker mule isn’t exactly a newcomer. It first emerged in the late ’90s and early 2000s, when brands like Nike and Reebok toyed with the idea of a backless sneaker. Decades later, luxury labels such as Miu Miu and Maison Margiela x Salomon reimagined the silhouette with playful color combinations, mismatched laces, and lower footbeds—cementing the shoe as more than just a quirky experiment.
Now, the look has gone mainstream, with everyone from Dolce Vita to Alohas to Steve Madden offering their own spin. For sneaker-shy shoppers, it’s a polished hybrid that slips easily into rotation with skirts and dresses. For sneaker loyalists, it’s a softer, more directional update to your trousers-and-sneakers uniform.
How to Style Sneaker Mules
When it comes to styling, think of sneaker mules as you would any other sneaker. Wear them with a sleek sock and pair with leggings or relaxed denim for a low-key, off-duty feel. Looking for something more polished? Treat them like the sportier cousin of a ballet flat and pair with a chunky knit and midi skirt. The beauty of the hybrid silhouette is that it gives you the best of both worlds—a shoe that bridges sporty and sophisticated.
Shop This Season’s Best Sneaker Mules
From bold, runway-inspired takes to minimalist pairs that seamlessly fit into any wardrobe, these are the versions worth bookmarking for fall.
