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When we’re heading out but don’t want to wear shoes as informal as flip flops, mules are our go-to. They’re effortless to slip on, are sleek and stylish, and they cover up if we’ve missed a pedicure or two. 😉 (And since they usually come with some height, they’re nice enough for a night out but not so risky that we might twist our ankles—it’s all about balance, you know?)
We’ve rounded up five of our favorite mules out there this season, some starting at under $100 (and sale prices go even lower!). These brands use sustainable and natural materials like Leather Working Group certified leather or recycled plastic bottles, and prioritize ethical production and safe working conditions.
1. Beklina
Materials | Sustainably sourced leather
Brand Ethics | Responsibly made in Peru, sustainable sourcing
Price | $320
Launched in 2006 by Angelina Rennell, Beklina is a small business focused on thoughtful fashion and home goods. And in fact, the team is best known for its handmade clogs and mules. Available in six rich colors, the Matisse Platform Mules are ethically crafted in Peru and finished with a hand-carved split heel, sustainably sourced leather, and cozy lining. Our editor loves how comfortable the shoes are and how they require no break-in period—plus, they’re perfect for dressing up or down. So while, yes, these are an investment, they’re aligned with the world we want to see and are a staple shoe that will last for a decade.
2. ALOHAS
Materials | Sustainable leather, vegan leather, denim
Brand Ethics | Made-to-order business model, responsibly made in Spain, vegan & LWG-certified natural leather options
Price | €80–€220
ALOHAS believes that “fashion shouldn’t cost the earth,” and we love them for it! Instead, the brand uses an on-demand production model. Once a new style or collection drops, you can place a pre-order for a sizable discount and then the team will create the exact units of style needed for manufacturing. You get the lowest possible price, they don’t have any excess waste—it’s a win-win! And ALOHAS mules are as stunning as they are sustainable; they’re made with today’s designs in mind like strappy heels, sleek silhouettes, and bright seasonal colors. Plus, these innovative designs have us expanding what “mules” can be. Step out and say ALOHA(s) all summer long.
3. Nisolo
Materials | LWG-certified leather, rubber
Brand Ethics | Certified B Corp, responsible production & living wages, Climate Neutral certified, LWG certified leather
Price | $100–$180
As a certified B Corp, Nisolo puts sustainability and ethics right at the heart of the company. From ethical production in Peru to a zero-carbon footprint, the intentionality here is unparalleled. And as for the mules? Well, they’re some of the best around—with many sale prices starting under $100! Choose from 20 styles in gorgeous neutral colors that can work with any wardrobe, including flat woven mules for a casual look, heeled mules comfortable enough to work all day, or strap mules for a more formal event. The leather in every shoe is Leather Working Group certified and they’re paired with cushioned insoles and enhanced padding for the easiest fit—our editors can vouch for it!
4. Sézane
Materials | Sustainably sourced leather
Brand Ethics | Certified B Corp, cowhide & vegetable-tanned leather, responsibly made in Spain, gives back via DEMAIN initiative, recycled packaging
Price | $240–$260
Nobody does sweet summer style quite like Sézane. This swoon-worthy French brand is chic and conscious—just look at these low mules! Available in three patterns, the Lenny Low Mules come with a leather lining, footbed, and insole, finished with metal buckle straps, so they’re durable enough to last summer after summer. Produced in Spain, Sézane relies on road transport and recycled packaging to minimize its carbon footprint and waste. (And best yet, 10% of daily sales are donated to educational nonprofits.) Do good and look even better. 😎🥰
5. VIVAIA
Materials | Recycled water bottles, rubber, vegan leather, wool
Brand Ethics | Natural & recycled materials, responsible production in China, recycled packaging
Price | $89–$97
VIVAIA’s production model may be the future, thanks to their use of 3D printing and recycled water bottles! Every pair “reincarnates” six plastic bottles and transforms them into the cutest shoes that will take you from day to night. Some added bonuses? They’re thoughtfully designed to be slip- and odor-resistant, extra-supportive with foam insoles, and flexible enough for A-EEE width feet. And prices start at under $100, with some sale prices starting at under $50. For easy, breezy, everyday mules, you can’t go wrong here (we have our own pairs to prove it!).
Featured image is from Beklina