Either as a flat or with a small heel, mules are everywhere this season. Defined by its backless, slip-on form, the mule is convenient and versatile. Mules were the shoe of choice for both Blake Lively and Jessica Alba while traveling; both stars were seen stepping out of airports in the style this week.
Lively opted for a sleek yet playful Gucci Princetown mule with appliqués, which she paired with simple jeans in Toronto Pearson International airport.
![](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/gucci-princetown-slipper-with-appliques-1050-gucci-com.jpg)
Gucci Princetown slipper with appliqués, $1,050; gucci.com
Electing for a more modern appeal, Alba wore a studded mule by Jenni Kayne. Teamed with a patterned Ganni Ryder kimono, the shoe brought a simple touch to the look.
![](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/jenni-kayne-studded-mule-545-shopbop-com.jpg)
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Jenni Kayne studded mule, $545; shopbop.com
![Jessica Alba in Jenni Kayne studded mules and a Ganni Ryder Kimono at LAX.](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/rexfeatures_9033939d.jpg)
The mule is an ideal shoe for travel because its slip-on nature makes it hassle free, while its traditional upper adds a fashionable flair. Most mules appear as conventional styles of shoes whose backs have been removed, creating a unique appeal. The style has already been done in a variety of ways, making it quite easy to jump on this trend.
A convenient choice, these peep-toe suede mules from 3.1 Phillip Lim have a block heel and simple aesthetic.
![3.1 PHILLIP LIM Cube suede mules](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/3-1-phillip-lim-cube-suede-mules450.jpg)
3.1 Phillip Lim Cube suede mules, $450; net-a-porter.com
A sleek upper and small heel make these Mansur Gavriel mules as chic as they are comfortable.
![MANSUR GAVRIEL Elegant faille mules](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/mansur-gavriel-elegant-faille-mules475.jpg)
Mansur Gavriel Elegant faille mules, $475; net-a-porter.com
These satin mules with a leather trim by Malone Souliers add a sense of ease to the typical pump.
![MALONE SOULIERS Maureen metallic leather-trimmed satin mules](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/malone-souliers-maureen-metallic-leather-trimmed-satin-mules525.jpg)
Malone Souliers Maureen metallic leather-trimmed satin mules, $525; net-a-porter.com
In white, Francesco Russo’s stiletto mules feature a lace-up design, reminiscent of an ankle-boot without commitment.
![FRANCESCO RUSSO Lace-up leather mules](https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/francesco-russo-lace-up-leather-mules990.jpg)
Francesco Russo lace-up leather mules, $990; net-a-porter.com