Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!
During summer, shoes have to do a lot of heavy lifting — especially when temperatures are high. That’s why we love styles that are elevated, yet practical and effort-free, like Nina Dobrev’s latest shoe choice. The star recently braved the summer heat in a pair of backless, open mules and we found a remarkably similar style for $40.
While in New York City, Dobrev was spotted strolling in a pair of relaxed mules that included white leather uppers with gathered, rounded toes and flat soles. The style’s open backs especially allow for easy movement and removal. Similarly, the equally minimalist pair we found includes rounded toes with smooth white uppers and a backless shape, in addition to gleaming gold hardware.
Get the Wide Toe Box Leather Mules for $40 at Walmart! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
Like Dobrev’s, our budget-friendly pick—which retails starting at $40—also featured black rubber soles. However, the backless mules we found included no-slip soles, as well as plenty of interior padding and arch support for long-term comfort. Those practical, ergonomic details make the slip-on style’s already open silhouette relaxing and easygoing, ideal for day-long wear.
Dobrev opted to pair her open-backed summer shoe style with a sweet take on the “Canadian tuxedo,” featuring a white T-shirt layered under a blue denim jacket and miniskirt from Celine. Her luxe outfit was complete with a white leather Bottega Veneta shoulder bag, as well as rounded rimless sunglasses.
And she’s not the only star who’s embraced relaxed mule styles this summer. Zoë Kravitz has also worn a pair of black leather slip-ons, while variations of the comfort-focused style have been seen on Emily Ratajkowski and Alexa Chung, too. With an easy, roomy shape and walkable height, the shoe style has earned a widespread celebrity appeal this season.
These backless summer mules are easy to style because they look stunning with any coordinated outfit. A blue denim jacket with a matching skirt, shorts or jeans creates a streamlined appearance where your shoes can provide a clean base while complementing lighter pieces, like a white or light-colored T-shirt, blouse or tank top. But the shoe’s slip-on shape would also work well with a flowing cotton midi or mini-length skirt, linen pants or trendy wide-legged shorts for a free-spirited summertime ensemble.
If you’re looking for a breathable white shoe to wear this summer, consider the backless mule your latest effortless find. This style’s open, slip-on silhouette and comfort-focused support are ideal for wearing on warmer days, especially if you want a relaxed shoe that’s more dressed-up than sneakers, but less formal than structured loafers.
Channel Dobrev’s same breezy summer style — pick up a pair for yourself and be sure to thank Us later!
Get the Wide Toe Box Leather Mules for $40 at Walmart! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.























