Microtrends

The fleeting footwear trends to get on board with this season. 

funky mules
Done By Matea Puffy Heel

The 17th century iconic slipper choice of the French has well and truly made its way back into the shoe collections of people everywhere, but now with a new purpose. While mules have been on trend for quite a few seasons, bright, colourful and unique mules are what is dominating fashion right now.

How to wear

Whether you’re wearing your go-to LBD or your classic monochrome get-up, pairing some lime green or fluro pink mules to that outfit will make you stand out in the best way possible. If you’re going all bright this summer, colour block your shoes to your outfit.

Why you need a pair

If mules meet at the intersection of practicality and professionalism, then this mule microtrend runs straight through the red-light. This season, bright colours are in and your shoes are no exception. Take advantage of this trend and experiment with your shoe choice. Get creative, get funky and step out of your comfort zone.

Our pick

Done by Matea is an Australia-based artisan shoemaker who has your funky mule covered. 
For a bright mule moment, try the Puffy Heels, or if you’re looking for a conversation starter shoe, the Not Paper Heels are our top pick. All Done by Matea shoes are handmade to order, which not only makes each shoe unique, but means they are sustainable too.

If you’re ready to jump into bright mules but not willing to go totally out there, By Far’s Beliz Venus Gloss Grained Leather is a great pick, or perhaps the Nelson Made Ione Mule in Butter if you are in need of a neutral shoe.

(Top to bottom) Nelson Made Ione Mule Butter, $399, nelsonmade.com.au; Done by Matea Not Paper Heels, $759, donebymatea.com; By Far Beliz Venus Gloss Grained Leather, $680, byfar.com; Done by Matea Puffy Heels, $590, donebymatea.com

ballet flats
Essen Foundation Flat White Ballet Flat

Early 2000s fashion is dominating fashion runways and our Instagram feeds. Dior’s Spring/Summer 2021 runway confirmed the resurgence of the ballet flat with their stunning netted black flat. 

How to wear

Slip on a pair of ballet flats with a maxi dress or skirt, or even a pair of tailored trousers or shorts. Honestly, any outfit could call for a ballet flat, they are that versatile.

Why you need a pair

It’s best to work smarter not harder, and this is especially the case with fashion. Ballet flats are not only comfortable and practical, but also versatile and can work with almost anything. If you’re building a capsule wardrobe, a pair of neutral ballet flats is a necessity. You’ll be thanking us when these shoes become your go-to for style and comfort.

Our pick

We can’t go past Country Road Claudia Ballet Flats, or a pair of Carvela Kurt Geiger comfort flats for an elevated look.

(Top to bottom) Country Road Claudia Ballet Flat, $99.95, countryroad.com.au;

Carvela Kurt Geiger Comfort, 175, davidjones.com; Essen Foundation Flat White, $286, essenthelabel.com; Essen Foundation Flat Silver, $286, essenthelabel.com

Words Evangeline Polymeneas