Not Leather, Not Suede—This Flat Shoe Trend Makes Denim Look Even More Sophisticated

There’s something about the arrival of winter, be it the longer nights that call for candlelit evenings, the chilly days that demand sumptuous wool and cashmere, or the natural shift towards richer colours and textures as the temperature drops, that makes indulging in daily luxuries feel all the more necessary.

Whatever the reason, I’m always compelled to bring a little more decadence into my daily rotation at this time of year, and that extends to my styling choices, too. Whilst velvet, silk and satin tend to be reserved for special occasions, I think there’s something so chic about working these luxurious fabrics into everyday outfits. This season, my favourite way to do so is with a pair of satin mules worn with jeans.

I’ve always found that satin’s glossy finish lends denim a more elevated feel, bringing a polish to an otherwise simple outfit without looking fussy. Now, having spotted Elsa Hosk out in the very pairing, I’m even more convinced.

Elsa Hosk walks down the street wearing a leopard-print trench coat with relaxed, slightly distressed jeans and navy satin mules. — (Image credit: @hoskelsa)

Styling her jeans with navy satin flats, Elsa showed just how much this shoe trend can smarten up denim. She finished the look with a leopard-print trench coat, adding another layer of texture and interest without compromising the outfit’s laid-back feel. Between the lustrous satin and the statement print, the look felt luxurious, whilst her simple blue jeans kept everything grounded and wearable.

In my opinion, satin mules are an underrated way to make blue jeans look more sophisticated than they would with leather or suede flats. If you’re looking for a low-effort way to give your everyday outfits a more considered feel this winter, I’d start here.

Read on to shop my edit of the best satin mules below.