A Mule by Any Other Name

There’s something to be said for not committing. Especially when it’s above 80 degrees in New York and still April. For me, keeping a handle on weather reality means abstaining from sandals just a little longer. It’s too soon to tease myself with a premature open-toe outing. Of course April or not, it is warm.
The solution appeared on the feet of a very stylish, tall stranger I spotted strolling in Brooklyn. She was sporting a thin pullover with slim, cutoff black jean shorts and sleek, black mules.
Mules, or clogs? you might be wondering. My research tells me that mules usually have a pointed toe and no back, while clogs get a chunky toe and can be open-backed or have a low back. Either way, not a sandal, but still less shoe than a sneaker or pump. Best of all, they’re easily slipped off in the grass. Since it’s already late in the season, eBay is calling my name with quite a few discount options.
The Cole Haan Kenna from ShoeMetro has a wooden heel, hot studs and a nude tan upper that will make any shorts-clad legs look sky-high.

Vintage Bastad clogs will never go out of style, especially with weaved leather uppers to keep you cool.

Antique brass hardware gives these new Charles David clogs from FashionAveMart a distinctly vintage feel.

Or for an easy eBay buy, head to the boutique Grapevinehill and check out the huge selection of luscious mules handcrafted by legendary Lucchese Boot Co. Here are a few of my faves (click a photo to link to an auction).