A New Day Mules

From Skeptical Shopper to Devoted Fan – Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy

When I first heard about A New Day mules, I’ll admit I was skeptical. After years of disappointing shoe purchases that looked gorgeous online but left my feet screaming by noon, I’d become cautious about investing in any new footwear brand. But Target’s in-house label kept catching my eye every time I wandered through the shoe section, and the price point was certainly appealing. What started as casual curiosity turned into a deep dive that completely changed my perspective on affordable, stylish footwear.

Let me take you on the journey I wish I’d had when I was first considering these shoes – from my initial research through multiple purchases, daily wear testing, and everything I’ve learned about A New Day mules along the way.

My First Encounter with A New Day

I remember the exact moment I first seriously considered A New Day mules. I was rushing through Target on a typical weekday evening, mentally calculating whether I had time to grab groceries and still make it to dinner with friends. That’s when I spotted them – a sleek pair of pointed-toe mules in the most perfect shade of blush pink I’d ever seen.

The buying guide for A New Day mules journey began right there in aisle C23. I picked them up, examined the construction, checked the price tag (twice, because it seemed too good to be true), and found myself genuinely impressed by what I was holding. The materials felt substantial, the design was clean and modern, and at under $25, the risk felt minimal.

But I didn’t buy them that day. Instead, I went home and did what any responsible shoe lover does – I researched everything I could find about A New Day mules before making a commitment.

Understanding the A New Day Brand Philosophy

A New Day, Target’s private label launched in 2017, represents something I’ve come to deeply appreciate: accessible style without compromising on design integrity. The brand’s philosophy centers on creating pieces that feel current and sophisticated while remaining attainable for everyday budgets.

What I discovered during my research was that A New Day mules aren’t trying to compete with luxury designers on materials or construction techniques. Instead, they’re filling a crucial gap in the market – providing well-designed, trend-conscious footwear for women who want to look polished without breaking the bank.

This positioning became clear to me as I dove deeper into understanding what makes these mules special. They’re not attempting to be the shoes you’ll wear for decades; they’re designed to be the shoes that let you experiment with trends, build a versatile wardrobe, and feel confident in your style choices without the financial stress that often accompanies fashion.

The Complete Style Breakdown: What’s Available

What styles of A New Day mules are available? This was my first major question, and the answer pleasantly surprised me. A New Day offers an impressive range of mule styles that cater to different preferences and occasions.

The pointed-toe mules are probably their most popular style, and for good reason. These create a sleek, elongated line that works beautifully with everything from cropped trousers to midi skirts. I own three pairs in different colors, and they’ve become my go-to choice for days when I want to look put-together with minimal effort.

Their round-toe mules offer a softer, more casual aesthetic that I find perfect for weekend activities or relaxed office environments. The broader toe box also makes them more comfortable for longer wear periods, which I appreciate on days when I’m doing a lot of walking.

The block heel mules have become my secret weapon for events where I need height but also stability. The chunky heel provides excellent support while still giving me the confidence boost that comes with a few extra inches. I’ve worn these to outdoor weddings, work presentations, and date nights with equal success.

For those preferring minimal height, the flat mules are surprisingly sophisticated. I was initially hesitant about flat mules, thinking they might look too casual, but A New Day’s design team has created versions that feel polished enough for professional settings while remaining comfortable for all-day wear.

The platform mules represent A New Day’s nod to current trends. While I don’t reach for these as often as other styles, they’re perfect for moments when I want to make a statement or add some edge to an otherwise simple outfit.

Where and How to Buy: My Shopping Strategy

Where can I buy A New Day mules? The primary source is Target, both in-store and online, which gives you several strategic advantages I’ve learned to leverage.

Shopping in-store allows you to examine the materials and construction firsthand, try on different sizes, and get a real sense of how the shoes look and feel. I always recommend this approach for your first pair, especially if you’re unsure about sizing or have concerns about fit.

Target’s online platform offers the broadest selection, including colors and styles that might not be available in your local store. I’ve found that online shopping works best when you’re already familiar with your A New Day size and are looking for specific colors or styles to add to your collection.

The Target app has become an essential tool in my A New Day shopping strategy. I can check inventory at nearby stores, set up notifications for sales, and even reserve items for pickup. This hybrid approach has saved me countless trips and ensured I don’t miss out on popular styles or colors.

Investment Analysis: Understanding the Value Proposition

How much do A New Day mules cost? The pricing structure is one of the most compelling aspects of these shoes, but understanding the value requires looking beyond the initial price tag.

A New Day mules typically range from $19.99 to $34.99, depending on the style and any current promotions. This pricing puts them in direct competition with fast fashion retailers while offering superior design and construction quality in my experience.

To put this in perspective, I calculated my cost-per-wear for several pairs I’ve owned for over a year. My black pointed-toe mules, purchased for $24.99, have been worn approximately 60 times in the past 18 months. That breaks down to roughly 42 cents per wear – an exceptional value for shoes that consistently receive compliments and make me feel confident.

The affordability also enables experimentation with trends without significant financial risk. I’ve purchased mules in bold colors or unique textures that I might have hesitated to try at higher price points, and this freedom to experiment has actually improved my personal style significantly.

The Comfort Question: Real-World Testing

Are A New Day mules comfortable for all-day wear? This question required extensive real-world testing, and my findings are nuanced but generally positive.

Comfort in A New Day mules depends significantly on the specific style and your individual foot characteristics. The flat mules consistently provide the best all-day comfort, with adequate cushioning and minimal pressure points. I regularly wear these for 8-10 hour days without significant discomfort.

The low block heel styles (1-2 inches) offer a good balance of height and comfort. I find them suitable for most workdays, though I might experience some fatigue during particularly long days or when doing extensive walking.

Higher heel options require more strategic planning. While they’re comfortable for shorter periods and special occasions, I wouldn’t recommend them for all-day wear unless you’re accustomed to heels and primarily sitting or standing in one location.

The key comfort factor I’ve identified is proper sizing. A New Day mules that fit correctly feel dramatically more comfortable than those that are even slightly too large or small. This brings us to one of the most critical aspects of purchasing these shoes.

Material Science: What You’re Actually Getting

What materials are used in A New Day mules? Understanding the materials helps set appropriate expectations and informs care decisions.

The uppers are typically constructed from synthetic leather or textile materials, depending on the specific style. The synthetic leather used in A New Day mules is surprisingly supple and develops a nice patina with wear. While it’s not genuine leather, it’s far superior to the plasticky synthetic materials often found at this price point.

Textile options include various woven materials, velvet, and seasonal fabrics. I own velvet mules that have maintained their texture and appearance through multiple seasons of wear, which speaks to the quality of material selection.

The sole construction varies by style but generally features a synthetic outsole with adequate grip for normal walking surfaces. The insoles provide basic cushioning that I find sufficient for moderate wear periods.

Hardware elements, like buckles or decorative details, are typically made from metal-toned plastic or lightweight metal alloys. While not premium materials, they’re durable enough for the shoes’ intended lifespan and maintain their appearance well with proper care.

Sizing Strategy: Getting the Perfect Fit

Are A New Day mules true to size? This question required purchasing multiple sizes in the same style to answer definitively, and my findings might save you significant hassle.

A New Day mules generally run true to size, but with important caveats. The pointed-toe styles tend to feel slightly more snug through the toe box, so if you’re between sizes or have wider feet, sizing up half a size often provides better comfort.

Round-toe and square-toe styles typically fit as expected, though the slip-on nature of mules means you want a secure fit without being too tight. Your foot should slide in easily but not slide around inside the shoe when walking.

I’ve developed a personal sizing strategy: I order my normal size for round-toe styles and go up half a size for pointed-toe styles. This approach has eliminated sizing disappointments and returns.

The lack of adjustable straps in most mule styles makes proper sizing even more critical. Unlike shoes with laces or straps that can accommodate slight size variations, mules need to fit correctly from the start.

Professional Appropriateness: Office-Ready Style

Can I wear A New Day mules for work? The answer depends on your workplace dress code, but I’ve successfully incorporated these shoes into professional settings with great results.

In traditional office environments, the pointed-toe mules in classic colors like black, brown, or navy blue work beautifully with business casual and professional attire. The clean lines and minimal hardware create a sophisticated look that pairs well with tailored pants, pencil skirts, and professional dresses.

Creative or casual workplaces offer more flexibility for experimenting with colors and textures. I’ve worn leopard print mules, bold colored options, and textured materials in my more relaxed work environments without any concerns about appropriateness.

The key is selecting styles and colors that complement your existing professional wardrobe. A New Day’s design aesthetic leans modern and polished, which translates well to most professional settings when styled thoughtfully.

Color Palette: Options for Every Style

What colors do A New Day mules come in? The color selection is impressive for a budget-friendly brand, offering both classic staples and seasonal trend colors.

Classic neutrals form the foundation of the color offering: black, brown, tan, nude, and navy blue are consistently available across most styles. These colors provide the versatility needed for building a capsule wardrobe and ensuring multiple outfit pairing options.

Seasonal colors rotate regularly, allowing you to refresh your shoe collection with current trends. I’ve seen beautiful offerings in millennial pink, sage green, burnt orange, and deep burgundy, among others. These seasonal options let you experiment with color without committing to higher-priced pieces.

Metallic finishes appear periodically, usually in gold, silver, or rose gold tones. These add glamour to evening outfits and can elevate simple daywear pieces for special occasions.

Print options occasionally include leopard print, snakeskin patterns, or floral motifs. While not always available, these statement pieces can add personality to otherwise simple outfits.

Wide Feet Considerations: Inclusivity in Design

Are A New Day mules suitable for wide feet? As someone with slightly wider feet, I’ve paid particular attention to this aspect across different styles.

The round-toe styles are generally most accommodating for wider feet, with a more forgiving toe box and overall shape. These have been my most comfortable options and the styles I recommend to friends with similar fit concerns.

Pointed-toe styles can work for wider feet, but careful sizing is essential. Going up half a size often provides the additional width needed while maintaining the sleek aesthetic that makes pointed-toe mules so appealing.

Block heel styles tend to offer more stability and comfort for wider feet, as the broader heel base provides better weight distribution and support.

A New Day doesn’t offer specific wide-width options, which is a limitation for those needing significantly more room. However, the moderate pricing makes it relatively low-risk to try different sizes to find the best fit.

Care and Maintenance: Preserving Your Investment

How do I clean and care for A New Day mules? Proper care significantly extends the life and appearance of these shoes, making your investment even more worthwhile.

For synthetic leather styles, I use a slightly damp cloth for regular cleaning, followed by a dry cloth to prevent water spots. Occasional application of synthetic leather conditioner helps maintain flexibility and prevents cracking.

Textile styles require more careful attention. I use a soft brush to remove surface dirt and spot-treat stains with appropriate cleaners. For velvet or delicate fabrics, professional cleaning might be necessary for major stains.

Storage matters more than I initially realized. I store my A New Day mules with shoe trees or stuffed with tissue paper to maintain their shape. Proper storage prevents creasing and extends the shoes’ lifespan significantly.

Rotating wear helps prevent excessive wear patterns and gives shoes time to air out between uses. I try not to wear the same pair of mules on consecutive days, which has helped maintain their appearance and comfort over time.

Customer Experience: What Others Are Saying

What are some customer reviews of A New Day mules? I’ve spent considerable time reading reviews and talking to other women about their experiences with these shoes.

The most common praise centers on value for money. Customers consistently express surprise at the quality and style available at A New Day’s price point. Many reviewers note that the shoes look much more expensive than their actual cost.

Comfort feedback is generally positive, with most customers finding the shoes suitable for moderate wear periods. Those with specific foot issues (high arches, plantar fasciitis, etc.) have mixed experiences, which aligns with my expectation that these aren’t orthopedic shoes.

Durability reports vary based on usage patterns. Customers wearing them occasionally report excellent longevity, while those using them as daily work shoes note more rapid wear. This seems reasonable given the price point and intended use.

Sizing consistency receives mostly positive feedback, with customers appreciating that they can reorder the same size in different colors with confidence.

Versatility Analysis: Casual vs. Formal Occasions

Are A New Day mules good for casual or formal occasions? The versatility of these shoes has been one of my most pleasant discoveries.

For casual occasions, mules work beautifully with jeans, casual dresses, and weekend attire. The slip-on convenience makes them perfect for quick errands, casual social events, and relaxed activities. I particularly love them for travel, as they’re easy to remove for security lines while still looking polished.

Semi-formal events are where A New Day mules really shine. They elevate casual outfits while remaining comfortable enough for extended wear. I’ve worn them to baby showers, casual dinner parties, and daytime events with excellent results.

Formal occasions require careful style selection, but certain A New Day mules can work beautifully. Sleek pointed-toe styles in classic colors or metallic finishes can complement cocktail attire or semi-formal events. They’re not appropriate for black-tie events, but they handle most other formal occasions gracefully.

Smart Shopping: Finding Deals and Discounts

Where can I find discounts or sales on A New Day mules? Developing a strategic approach to sales has allowed me to build an impressive collection without overspending.

Target’s regular sales cycles offer the best opportunities for savings. I’ve noticed that A New Day shoes frequently go on sale during seasonal transitions, back-to-school periods, and major shopping holidays.

The Target REDcard provides a consistent 5% discount on all purchases, which adds up significantly over time. Combined with sale prices, this can result in substantial savings.

Clearance sections both online and in-store offer the deepest discounts on seasonal colors and styles. While selection is limited, patient shoppers can find excellent deals on high-quality pieces.

Buy one, get one offers occasionally appear, particularly during promotional periods. These deals work well when you want to try different styles or colors.

Safety and Practicality: Sole Performance

Do A New Day mules have a non-slip sole? The sole performance affects both safety and practicality, making this an important consideration.

The outsole design varies by style but generally provides adequate traction for normal walking surfaces. The synthetic rubber compound offers reasonable grip on dry surfaces, though I’m cautious on wet or slippery surfaces.

Heel styles with broader bases provide better stability than narrow heels, which makes sense from both comfort and safety perspectives. I feel more confident walking on various surfaces in block heel styles compared to stiletto-style options.

For environments requiring superior slip resistance, A New Day mules might not be the best choice. However, for typical daily activities and office environments, the traction is sufficient for safe, confident walking.

Retail Availability: Where to Find Them

What stores carry A New Day mules? Understanding distribution helps with shopping strategy and availability expectations.

Target stores are the primary retail location, with most full-size Target locations carrying a selection of A New Day mules. However, selection varies significantly between stores based on size and location.

Target.com offers the most comprehensive selection, including styles and colors that might not be available in physical stores. Online shopping also provides access to customer reviews and detailed product information.

Target’s buy online, pick up in store service combines the convenience of online selection with the immediacy of in-store pickup. This option works particularly well when you know your size and want to avoid shipping delays.

Some Target Express or smaller format stores carry limited selections, so calling ahead can save time if you’re looking for specific styles.

Competitive Analysis: How They Stack Up

How do A New Day mules compare to other brands? I’ve owned mules from various brands across different price points, which provides valuable comparison context.

Against fast fashion retailers in similar price ranges, A New Day consistently offers superior construction quality and design sophistication. The materials feel more substantial, and the styling is more refined and versatile.

Compared to mid-range brands ($50-100), A New Day obviously doesn’t match the material quality or construction techniques, but the design aesthetic is surprisingly competitive. For trend-conscious shoppers on budgets, they offer similar style impact at a fraction of the cost.

Designer options provide superior materials, construction, and longevity, but at price points 3-10 times higher. A New Day mules serve a different market segment entirely, focusing on accessible style rather than luxury positioning.

The value proposition of A New Day mules is strongest when compared to other budget-friendly options, where they consistently offer better design, materials, and construction quality.

Height Options: Finding Your Perfect Elevation

Are A New Day mules available in different heel heights? The variety of heel heights accommodates different comfort preferences and styling needs.

Flat mules (0-0.5 inches) provide maximum comfort and versatility. These work beautifully for casual occasions, extended wear periods, and situations requiring lots of walking.

Low block heels (1-2 inches) offer a subtle height boost while maintaining excellent stability and comfort. These have become my go-to choice for most occasions, providing a polished look without sacrificing wearability.

Medium heels (2-3 inches) add significant height and create a more dramatic silhouette. I reserve these for special occasions or shorter wear periods, as they require more foot strength and balance.

Platform styles occasionally appear, combining height with improved weight distribution. While not always available, these options work well for those wanting dramatic height with better comfort than traditional high heels.

Return and Exchange Policies: Risk-Free Shopping

Can I return or exchange A New Day mules if they don’t fit? Understanding return policies reduces the risk associated with online shopping and sizing uncertainties.

Target’s standard return policy allows returns within 90 days with receipt, which provides ample time to test fit and comfort. This generous window makes it relatively risk-free to try new styles or sizes.

Online purchases can be returned to stores or by mail, offering flexibility in how you handle returns. Store returns are typically processed immediately, while mail returns take a few days to process.

Condition requirements are reasonable – shoes should be in new or like-new condition with original packaging. Minor scuffing from trying on is typically acceptable, but significant wear voids return eligibility.

The REDcard extends the return window to 120 days, providing even more flexibility for decision-making.

Styling Strategies: Outfit Integration

What outfits pair well with A New Day mules? The versatility of these shoes allows for numerous styling approaches across different occasions and seasons.

Work outfits benefit from the polished appearance of pointed-toe mules in classic colors. I pair black mules with tailored trousers and blouses, navy mules with pencil skirts and sweaters, and nude mules with dresses in various colors.

Casual ensembles work beautifully with round-toe or flat mule styles. Jeans and mules create an effortlessly chic combination, while casual dresses with mules strike the perfect balance between comfortable and put-together.

Date night styling can incorporate higher heel options or metallic finishes for added glamour. Block heel mules provide height and confidence while remaining comfortable enough for dinner and evening activities.

Travel outfits benefit from the slip-on convenience and versatile styling of mules. They’re easy to remove for security, comfortable for walking, and polished enough for various destinations and activities.

Seasonal Considerations: Year-Round Wearability

Are A New Day mules good for summer or year-round wear? The seasonal appropriateness depends on style selection and personal preferences.

Summer wear is where mules truly excel. The open-back design provides excellent breathability, while the variety of colors and materials allows for perfect seasonal coordination. I find them ideal for warm weather office wear and summer social events.

Fall and spring offer perfect conditions for mule wearing. The moderate temperatures work well with the coverage level, and the seasonal color offerings typically align beautifully with autumn and spring wardrobes.

Winter wear requires more strategic planning. While closed-toe mules can work in mild winter conditions, they’re not suitable for snow, ice, or extremely cold temperatures. I typically reserve winter mule wearing for indoor events and mild weather days.

Year-round versatility comes from building a collection that includes different styles and colors appropriate for various seasons and occasions.

Final Recommendations: My Personal Buying Guide

After extensive experience with A New Day mules, I’ve developed a strategic approach to building a collection that maximizes value and versatility.

Start with basics: Begin with one pair in a classic color (black, brown, or nude) in a style that matches your lifestyle needs. This foundational pair will help you understand sizing, comfort, and quality expectations.

Build strategically: Add colors and styles based on gaps in your wardrobe and lifestyle requirements. Consider your most common activities and dress codes when selecting additional pairs.

Take advantage of sales: The regular sale cycles make it possible to build a substantial collection without significant investment. Patience and strategic timing can result in exceptional value.

Experiment with trends: The affordable pricing makes A New Day mules perfect for trying trend-conscious styles without major financial commitment. Use these pieces to explore new aspects of your personal style.

Maintain realistic expectations: These shoes excel at providing style and reasonable comfort at an accessible price point. They’re not luxury items, but they’re exceptional value for their intended market segment.

My journey with A New Day mules has been overwhelmingly positive, transforming my perspective on budget-friendly footwear and proving that style and affordability can coexist beautifully. Whether you’re looking to refresh your work wardrobe, experiment with new trends, or simply find reliable, attractive shoes that won’t strain your budget, A New Day mules deserve serious consideration.

The key to success with any shoe purchase is understanding your needs, doing your research, and maintaining realistic expectations. A New Day mules check all these boxes while providing the added benefit of exceptional value and surprising versatility. My closet now houses eight pairs in various styles and colors, each serving specific purposes in my wardrobe rotation, and I consider every purchase a success story in smart shopping and personal style development.