Seasonal shoes: Wearing clogs and mules for fall

When you think of seasonal shoes for fall, your mind likely goes first to the autumn must-haves everyone loves: ladies’ boots and booties. Or, you may think about your collection of pretty ballerina and slipper flats that go with just about anything in your wardrobe. What you likely don’t envision, though, are women’s clogs and mules. But believe it or not, these shoes are quickly becoming fall staples. Clogs and mules sometimes get a bad rap – they’re often correlated with ’70s hippies or grandmothers. However, the two styles are skyrocketing in popularity, and the updated versions of the shoes are both stylish and sophisticated (not to mention extremely comfortable).

Still not sure they’re the shoes for you? Here’s a guide for wearing clogs and mules this fall:

Let’s talk about women’s clogs and mules

First of all, what exactly do we mean when we talk about clogs and mules. Both can either be flat or heeled, but they share one main characteristic: They’re easy to slip on and off quickly because, for the most part, they don’t have backs or ankle straps. Clogs often have wooden or cork soles and genuine leather covering the toes, while mules shoes can be made of almost any material and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Why do we love these shoes? They’re easy to slip on, amazingly comfortable and a perfect choice for wearing all day long.

How to choose clogs and mules

It’s important to think about a number of factors when choosing both clogs and mules. Here are just a few:

• Overall style: Clogs have a very distinctive look, and are typically considered more casual shoes. Mules, on the other hand, are any shoe without a back, which means they can be found in an array of styles, including formal and sleek, embellished and whimsical, and comfortable and professional. To determine the style you’re interested in, consider where you’re planning on wearing these shoes.
• Heel height and style: Both clogs and mules can be flat or heeled. Heeled clogs typically have wide wedge-like heels, making them easy to walk in. They’re a great option for a stylish yet casual shoe that can be worn to a variety of occasions. Flat clogs are a bit more casual, and they’re a great choice for staying comfortable over the weekend. Mules have a variety of heel heights and styles, from tall and thin to medium-height and stacked. Mules with thinner heels are a great formal option for fall, whereas styles with a thicker heel tend to be slightly more casual – great for weekends or business-casual offices.
• Toe style: Clogs are typically close toed, whereas mules can be close toed or peep toed. If you’re looking for a new pair of autumn shoes, it’s a good idea to opt for close-toed styles that will keep your feet covered and warm during chilly mornings and evenings.

How to wear clogs and mules

There aren’t any hard-and-fast rules about wearing clogs and mules, but there are a couple of guidelines you can consider when wearing these seasonal shoes. Flat clogs and cushioned mules look great underneath trousers or jeans, but can look a bit out of place with skirts or dresses. Taller clogs and mules, however, are a bit more versatile. Let the formality of the shoe dictate what you wear with it: For instance, casual, heeled clogs look terrific under wide-leg jeans or with informal A-line skirts and dresses. Mules with a pointed toe, skinny heel or both can dress up casual ensembles or complement more formal outfits, like sheath dresses or pencil skirts at the office.

These shoes are all about comfort and style, so why not give them a try this fall season?