Black mules that go with every outfit

There is hardly a women’s shoe that has stood the test of time quite like a classic black mule. These have been around since the Ancient Roman times and are still such an amazing staple for any elevated wardrobe. In the 16th century, these functional shoes were adopted by French women. No surprise there, these fashionable women always know what to wear to look put-together and effortless. Mules were originally designed to only be worn inside the house, but luckily for all of us, things have changed a bit since then.

As a fundamental part of any women’s wardrobe the black leather mule can transition with you throughout each season (of your life and of the year). Artfully designed for both comfort and style, you'll show up to any event looking put together and feeling confident. The quintessential women’s shoe can add a classic and chic element to your collection, just slip-on and go!

What is a mule?

The mule shoe is defined as a slip-on, without a back or constraint around the heel. Fortunately, there are also versions of mules with a sling-back, which is both functional and an aesthetically pleasing feature. Unlike the clog, which has a more bohemian feel to it, the women’s mule is a classic slip-on silhouette that works with every individual’s unique style. What could be easier than slipping on a shoe that is both chic and comfortable? The mule shoe is made in an assortment of materials, but the leather mule is a tried and true style that you can wear in a variety of different ways.

The black leather mule is one of the most versatile styles in women’s footwear. Since this classic style has been around for such a long time, there are so many variations of these shoes; there are block heels, platform mules, flat mules, high heels, and more. They come in different fabrics like velvet, suede, leather, fur, and faux fur and they can be adorned with feathers, rhinestones, and even buckles. I love variety in shoes and this classic silhouette is so versatile. The Aurora is such a great style because it looks clean and sophisticated. It’s comfortable and sustainable, which makes it unique and very rare for most women’s shoes. This mule can suit any women’s wardrobe, and if you’re already a mule shoe girl, this may be that perfect addition to your closet that you've been looking for.

How HILOS can make an impact and an impression

HILOS specializes in the effortless slingback mule style, Aurora. This clean and sophisticated women’s model takes the cake. Comfort and design are the the forefront of this silhouette. The Aurora has a refined slingback strap that ensures it stays on your foot without sliding. Plus, a springy footbed that is so cozy you won’t want to take them off. You can wear them all day and all night! Designed through a digital manufacturing process, the Aurora has a 3D printed platform with a springy footbed made from intricate lattice structures called digital mesh. With a flexible platform that cradles each step you take, you notice that the technology of the shoes truly enhances the comfort. The square toe and the short block heel add modern elements and interest to create a unique and timeless women’s shoe.

The Aurora women’s mule was created for comfort, convenience and they're aesthetically pleasing in all the right ways! Many different women’s shoe brands like Franco Sarto, Steve Madden, Sam Edelman, Cole Haan, Kenneth Cole, and Dolce Vita produce women’s mules that come in a variety of materials such as faux leather, suede, and satin. The HILOS version of the women’s mule is a unique, hand crafted style made on-demand with vegetable tanned leather in Portland, Oregon. This black mule is so much more than just easy on the eyes, it’s also better for the environment. By HILOS using 3D printing as their core manufacturing process, they are saving over 1900 gallons of water for every pair created.

The Aurora was built for circularity, which means it won’t just last, but has a purpose after you’re done with them. This leather mule can be disassembled and repurposed for a second life. A sustainable and stylish women’s shoe? Sign me up!

The versatility of black mules

The Aurora comes in 5 different gorgeous colors, whiskey, burgundy, sand, olive, and black. Let’s just focus on one today, the quintessential black mule. With the silver hardware featured on this style, it stands out from the pack by looking both traditional and contemporary at the same time. There aren’t many options for women’s shoes you can wear year round, and for almost every occasion, but the mule shoe is so adaptable you can wear them all the time. Wear this style to work, to the farmer’s market, and to brunch, and always look put together and confident. Just prepare yourself to receive compliments galore.

The Aurora black leather mule can be paired with so many awesome outfit combinations. These women’s shoes are perfect to wear with your workwear. Imagine walking into the office in a relaxed cream trouser, a cream and black abstract printed silk button up blouse, with the matching cream blazer draped over your shoulders. All of these elegant pieces can perfectly pair back to your Aurora mules. You'll be turning heads in this monochromatic masterpiece.

For a refined weekend look, give your clogs a break, and slip-on these shoes with a medium blue denim straight leg cropped jean, a classic black and white striped tee and throw on your favorite trench coat. Pair with simple gold hoops and step out of the house looking put together and instantly elevated.

Running errands around the city? Aurora is the perfect shoe to upgrade your look. Instead of reaching for a pair of sneakers, you can save time by slipping into these square toe, short block heel mules paired with a graphic sweatshirt and a wide leg linen pant. If you want to show off a bit more of your personality, add some chunky enamel jewelry, like a chain necklace, and some statement rings. Mixing bold accessories with your elegant shoe is the perfect way to show off your unique charm.

When the temperatures are rising, this slip-on style will be comfortable and breathable. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the Aurora slipping off when you walking through the park in your cute floral dress. Swap out your Summer sandals for a pair of these slingback shoes. Grab your black woven tote bag and add a playful accessory like a pair of funky sun glasses to bring your look to life.

Isn’t it every women’s dream to show up to a date looking bold, chic and a little mysterious? Well, HILOS has you covered, and the perfect outfit combination does exist - pair these black mules with black leather pants, a black muscle tee, gold hammered earrings, and a gold chain link necklace for a sleek option. If temperatures drop and you are feeling adventurous, throw on a cool statement jacket over your all black look.

When it’s a little chilly and you still want to show off your personality, be sure to wear your black mules with a patterned sock. Adding a fun sock is a great way to incorporate your slip-on mules through the changeover of seasons. This square toe style looks fantastic paired with a cotton utility jumpsuit (a shortsleeved canvas style). If it’s cooler outside, you can have some fun and play with layering a fitted printed turtleneck under your jumpsuit.

Styling inspiration from other designers

It’s no surprise mules keep reappearing on the runway. Designers are styling these traditional women’s shoes with all different colors, silhouettes and textures. I love pulling great inspiration when I see it, and I have a few exciting looks to share with you to spark some joy!

The Row, known for their high quality materials and timeless styles, show how to style the perfect and effortless monochromatic look. The smooth taupe leather low heel mules pair nicely with the relaxed button up shirt and taupe trousers. The structured bag adds more interest to the look. This would be perfect to wear from desk to drinks. Simply throw on a pair of statement earrings and a dark lip and look stunning!

Max Mara styled their slingback mules in a sexy and unexpected way. A crisp white oversized shirt dress paired with a black fishnet tight add some fire to these black leather mules. The black leather gloves also add a provocative feel to this look. Paired back with the black woven clutch, you are ready for a night out!

Edun Choi, whose designs focus on masculine tailoring with a feminine sensibility, coupled white pointed toe low heel mules with an exaggerated pinstripe wide leg pant. The black ribbed knit asymmetrical sweater top adds contrast to the stark white large buckle mules. This is a sophisticated and exciting look with the waist details on the wide leg pants and the white structured clutch.

The artistic and contemporary women’s brand By Malene Birger styles their asymmetric low heel mules with a cow-print calf hair and leather coat. The boxy retro body of the coat and the sharp lines of these black mules make this look feel fresh and exciting. The square toe mules don’t take away from this bold coat, but add a fresh element to the look. Adding a chunky gold ring was just the right addition to this outfit.

One last look by Les Copains we can’t forget about it! This great printed midi dress and cardigan worn with the cream slingback mules is feminine and soft. You can wear the Aurora black mules paired with a flowy midi dress and a cardigan. Pick a printed dress that has a bit of black in it and wear a chunky cardigan over it for the cooler months. When you don’t want to wear high heels and you want to focus on comfort and style, the slingback mules are perfect for you.

Now that you have all of these styling tips in your toolbox, I would love to know how you would wear the Aurora slingback low heel black leather mule. Are you dressing her up for date night with your other half while sipping amazing french wine? Or are you strutting down city streets to and from work wearing your comfy, timeless black mules? If you’re anything like me, you’re doing ALL the above!

Special thanks to

Guest blogger & personal stylist, Alena Le Blanc of Le Blanc Label