French Women Are Done with Sandals—they're Now Opting for This Closed-Toe Shoe Instead.

French Women Are Done with Sandals—they're Now Opting for This Closed-Toe Shoe Instead.

      There’s a right time and place for sandals, and, for me, that was just about anywhere in Europe a couple of weeks ago. Now, though, I’m looking for something different. Yes, the weather remains pleasantly warm, but the forecast keeps hinting at rain, and on dry days, the pavements are dusty enough to make open-toe shoes less appealing. Considering it’s not yet boot season, selecting footwear has become quite the challenge.

      So where does that leave us? After extensive exploration (or more accurately, scrolling through Instagram, Pinterest, and countless street style images), I’ve discovered the stylish shoe trend that seems to have been embraced by every Parisian overnight: black closed-toe mules.

      I’m not exaggerating; once you start noticing, they’re everywhere and seemingly worn by everyone. I’ve seen them paired with jeans, skirts, dresses, pants, and even shorts. Their versatility is striking. It’s easy to see why they’re so popular. These simple shoes achieve that delicate balance French women have mastered—sophisticated and refined, yet not overly complicated. The closed-toe design adds a more refined touch (and eliminates the need for a fresh pedicure), while the open back keeps them light and suitable for warm weather.

      In a deep, rich black—as opposed to a brighter tone or a light neutral—they can be matched with anything, which likely explains their dominance on the streets. While heeled versions seem to be the preference among Paris’s fashion elite, flat styles are quickly becoming popular too—something I’ve noticed in both street style photos and store displays. This season alone, I’ve come across them at H&M, Reformation, and Manolo Blahnik.

      If you’re also looking for a footwear trend to carry you through this transitional period—and beyond—read on to explore my curated selection of top black closed-toe mules below.

      Shop Black Closed-Toe Mules:

      H&M

      Square-Toe Leather Mules

      Hurry! These are close to selling out.

      Reformation

      Wilda Kitten Mule

      Available in five other colors.

      Manolo Blahnik

      Maysale 50 Buckled Suede Mules

      A stylish heel from Manolo will always be in vogue.

      Zara

      Leather High-Heel Mules 50th Anniversary

      Honestly, these seem more expensive than their actual price.

      Topshop

      Dorota Kitten Heel Pointed Mule

      In this glossy black hue, they easily fit into a capsule wardrobe.

      Tory Burch

      Pierced Mule in Black

      Tory Burch's Pierced Mules are a favorite among fashion enthusiasts.

      Jimmy Choo

      Sana 50 Faux Pearl-Embellished Satin Mules

      These also come in half sizes for the perfect fit.

      Calvin Klein

      Leather Kitten Heel Mules

      The short kitten heel offers height without compromising on comfort.

      H&M

      Cone-Heel Leather Mules

      The angular design lends these a luxurious look.

      Victoria Beckham

      Sloan Mule In Black Suede

      Perfect for styling with a simple black dress or one of your most elegant outfits.

      Explore More:

      French Style

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Kylie Jenner has just announced that this "outdated" denim trend is still relevant— but only when styled *this* way. Kylie Jenner has just announced that this "outdated" denim trend is still relevant— but only when styled *this* way. Make a note.

French Women Are Done with Sandals—they're Now Opting for This Closed-Toe Shoe Instead.

I will take their guidance.