The Many Mules of Jess Warner

A deep dive into my somewhat plentiful collection of mules, or are they clogs? Or slides?

Mar 21, 2025

For the first time in 5 months, my dry, pale and slightly flaky ankles are exposed to daylight (I’m typing this Thursday afternoon, so chances are it’s back to -3 and raining by the time you’re reading this!). The temperature’s reached double digits and I’m positively buzzing with anticipation to get the big, Wilko, plastic storage tubs - containing my summer clothes - down from the loft for the big switch over. Bye bye chunky knits, hello floaty linen. Too soon? Probably! But if I don’t start wearing all that organic cotton and European linen now, I’m never going to justify the costs per wear on the 7.6 warm days here in the UK!

But as a little dabble - a precursor if you will - to going full floaty, the clogs are out, and without the sheath of a woolen sock. So, as I have a vast collection, I thought this a good time to give you a run down of my top 5 - get in early enough with the saved searches, you might find a preloved bargain.

But very quickly, I’m thinking of doing my second Live Q&A next Wednesday evening (26th March), around 7ish. Does this work for you? As last time, pop your questions HERE in the chat thread, they can be anything from fun and frivolous, to deep and meaningful - and see ya there.

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1. Preloved Leopard Alohas

By far my most asked about clog, and I’ve only had them a few months. Bought on Vinted as part of a bundle (I think for around £60), they’re the Alohas Halia leopard-print calf-hair clogs. True to size, comfy if a little on the heavier side than my other mule offerings. But the best bit, they literally go with EVERYTHING!

Mostly sold out online, so worth having that saved search at the ready!

2. Preloved Vibae Mules

I first saw them on Toast, and then found them on Vinted - but I never anticipated the pure comfort level! The Vibae Roma Mules mold to your feet over time, becoming comfier and comfier. They’re like slippers that you can wear out - I’ve worn them to London in the rain and they were fine, although my feet were a bit wet!

They’re true to size.

For transparency, as a thank you for stories I shared to my instagram (only cos I loved them) they also gifted Russ and I ‘his and hers’ black ones - we’re now matchy Vibae wankers!

3. World Secrets Kilim Carpet Clogs

If you’re after something a little bit different, well, in fact completely unique - look no further than the World Secrets Carpet clogs! Each pair is handmade from antique rugs and is simply stunning.

This is now my second pair - I was a little heavy handed with my first and broke the buckle when I kicked a sofa (accidentally of course!), which I repaired, only to get them wet with seawater last year and for the buckle to finally give up the ghost!

They’re lined with a faux shearling too, so it’s like a cosy hug for the toes.

True to size.

4. Birkenstock Naples

Now, I don’t think having a pair of Birkenstocks on here is original, BUT, maybe a pair of suede Naples Birks is slightly out of the Boston box we’ve all got comfy in?!

I bought these in July last year - tempted by the usual comfort of Birks but with a slightly more loafer-y shape. I just found the Bostons a little low and flat?! Does that even make sense. These have a bit more soul - literally speaking.

They’re comfy and true to size, while still being roomy and airy enough.

Although, the black part of the soul has now come away from the front of the shoe on both of them, so while I may have a pair of duds that need gluing regularly, I’m not 100% sold on the usual Birkenstock quality.

5. World Secrets Nomad Clogs

By now you’ve probably cottoned onto the fact that I love World Secrets clogs - they’re fun, cool and chances of you spotting someone else in a similar pair and slim to none! These Nomad ones are super cosy, as they’re completely lined with faux shearling.

Like with all the others, they’re true to size.

Alrighty, time to crack on with Friday now… Bruno’s home from Stockport later today, so I better clear out his bedroom of all the detritus that has no home. And I need to prep for a busy weekend of birthday parties - one of which is Cas’ - and the first carboot sale of the year (like our local proper one, in a field and all!). Keep everything crossed that the weather plays ball for a Sunday morning of bargain hunting!

Stay cosy folks…