T&C Tried & True: Why the Manolo Blahnik Maysale Mule Is The Ultimate Versatile Heel

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Here at T&C, we pride ourselves on our discerning eye for quality. With Tried & True, our editors will give you an inside look at the pieces they simply cannot live without.

Like many people, a by product of my Sex and the City-obsessed youth—and adulthood—is that I grew up coveting Manolo Blahnik heels. I used to daydream about a future where I would be dashing about town in a pair of stilettos, oozing glamour and sophistication. I still vividly remember the euphoria I experienced when I first acquired a pair of Manolos for myself. They were burgundy patent stiletto sandals that I still own and regularly wear. Once that goal was achieved, I quickly became hooked, and set my sights on acquiring the classics. Of course, I have a pair of patent leather mary jane stilettos—my closet would not be complete without the "urban shoe myth" as dubbed by Ms. Bradshaw—but there is one style that is set apart from the pack: The Maysale mule.

The Maysale, in both the 50 mm and 70 mm format, is in a class of it's own. The oft-sold-out pointed toe slide has a distinct buckle and looks amazing seemingly no matter which color you you choose. Wear them as a bride in soft blue or gray. Wear them to work, you add instant polish to your outfit.

Something I have always found remarkable about this shoe—even in the kitten heel format—is how subtly hot they are; self-assured and sultry, never overt or cheesy. I can think of no other shoe that makes me feel that way. With the versatility, also comes comfort; I can wear my kitten heel version a whole day with no foot pain, and gosh do my feet look damn good wearing them. Every time I put them on, it's an "in her shoes moment," so I wear them year round.

So, what is it about this shoe that makes it so good? Mr. Blahnik gave me some insight: "I have always adored the sound a mule makes when you walk in them. It’s one of my sexiest shoes as the ankle and heel are completely unrestrained. It’s extraordinary to see these silhouettes on some of the most elegant women.''

Originally produced for Isaac Mizrahi's SS91 show, a collection in which Mr. Mizrahi was exploring motifs associated with pilgrims, the shoe (originally called the Salem) paid homage to the buckle on a pilgrim shoe—and evolved over the years to be referred to as the Mayflower and then the Maysale as it is known today. In 30 years, it's grown no less appealing. As a result I can think of no better reason to own more than one pair. These days, I'm considering a burgundy or a tan option—perhaps in the 70 mm height and continuing on my quest to hunt down the tartan pair that came out a few years back.

Until I add a new pair to my growing collection, I'll continue to feel giddy—and forever chic—every time I slip on the pair I already own.

Photography by Florence Sullivan. Prop styling by Isabelle Von Arx.

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