Mules: Introducing your new summer staple

It’s officially warm enough to ditch the tights (for now), and we’re celebrating the only way we know how by slipping into this season’s most-wanted accessory, the mule.

Love them or loathe them – this 90s staple style has had a resurgence in popularity of late, and is now the look du jour for summer.What exactly counts as a mule? It’s essentially your summer slider in high heel form.

Look for anything backless with a heel and you’re good to go.Those dedicated shoppers savvy to a new trend will likely own a pair in some form or another, but should you be new to the trend, here’s what you need to know.Closed toe or open toe – anything goes.

The loafer style is big news right now, and lends itself well to the mule style shoe. We’re leaning to anything in an animal print, tan or suede to get our fix.For the office, look for leather styles in neutral shades, keep the heel block and low, and wear with ankle-grazing trousers and an oversized white button-up shirt.

As ever, to get some new-season styling inspiration, we’re looking to the SS16 catwalks where the mule reigned supreme. Celine championed the tough-looking, closed toe studded version; Boss opted for the stacked heel in wear-with-everything grey tones; Proenza Schouler kept things pointed and low, while Gucci went for lashings of embellishment, high shine fabrics and plenty of prints for the eccentric dressers.

Among the street style set, the likes of Leandra Medine of The Man Repeller favoured green satin knotted styles from No.21, worn with heavily frayed jeans and a breton, while Caroline Issa wears hers a little sleeker, with low key shapes and neutral shades.

Expert dressers looking to push the boundaries style-wise should head for Mango, cool classics can be found at Zara, or, for something seriously impressive and fun to wear, try Charlotte Olympia.