Easier to show you then to explain in these 2D text.
Mules. The front part of a pair of heels or flat sole shoes. Only
the front part is closed with materials, cover up the toes and the
balls of the feet. No backing. Almost like slippers except you wont
see the toes peeking up in front. Can be with stilettos heels or
without.
Mules are backless, with no straps to secure the ankles.
Those front 30% covered with materials ones are safely known as
heels.
Think those soft front covered bedroom slippers except they are
more refined for outdoor wears.