With a history going back more than a century, the Mary Jane continues to be afavoured footwearstyle for both womenand girls. Practical and versatile, these highly adaptable shoes can be worn withalmost any kind ofoutfits, whetherthey be casual or formal, for work or for play. There is no doubt that Mary Janeshoes and their iconicstraps are hereto stay.
In this guide, we will start with the origin and design ofthese classic shoes with anenduring appeal, and the manydifferent forms they can come in, before delving into the ways one can wear andstyle them. Lastly, we will touch onhowto care for your Mary Jane shoes so they will look good and last longer.
What are Mary Jane shoes?
Mary Jane shoes are a classic footwear style that has been popular formany decades. These shoes are known for theirdistinctive design and charming appeal. They typically feature a low heel or flat sole and a roundedtoe. Although recently, Mary Jane shoes with chunky platform soles have risen in popularity.The defining feature of Mary Janes is the strap that crosses over the top of the foot andfastens with a buckle orbutton. This strap adds both style and functionality, providing extra support and ensuring asecure fit.
One of the reasons why Mary Jane shoes have remained popularthroughout the years is their versatility. These shoes are incredibly adaptable and can bepairedwith a wide range of outfits, from casual to dressy. Their timeless design makes them a go-tochoice for adults andchildren alike. Mary Jane shoes are often associated with a sense of innocence and femininity,but they can also add atouch of retro flair to a modern ensemble. Whether paired with a floral dress or with jeans,Mary Jane shoeseffortlessly blend comfort, style, and nostalgia, making them a beloved choice forfashion-conscious individuals of allages.
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History of Mary Jane shoes
Before the term Mary Jane was popularised, these shoes were called barshoes because of the “bar” that goes across thetop of the foot. However, in the early 20th century, these shoes quickly gained recognition forits association with theeponymous character in the popular Buster Brown comic strip, Mary Jane. Characterised by arounded toe and a singlestrap gracefully crossing the instep, Mary Jane shoes were an instant hit. Originally craftedfrom luxurious leather,they were renowned for their practicality and all-day comfort and were initially embraced as thego-to footwear forschool uniforms and formal occasions. They have since become a symbol of versatile fashion, andcan now be seen pairedwith everything, from a playful dress to tailored ensembles.
Over time, Mary Jane shoes have evolved to keep up with theever-changing fashion landscape, and are now available in anarray of materials, including canvas and synthetic options. The strap design, once secured bybuttons or buckles, hassince been transformed with the advent of Velcro closures and multiple strap variations. Thisevolution has added atouch of modernity to the timeless charm of Mary Jane shoes, and its adaptability ensures thatthey will remain relevantin the fashion world for decades to come. The enduring popularity of these shoes lies in theirability to effortlesslyelevate any look, striking the perfect balance between form and function.
Types of Mary Jane shoes
The revival of early-aughts fashion, particularly from the ‘90s and2000s, have re-catapulted Mary Janes back into thespotlight (as well as into our social feeds) — and now this iconic school-girl style comesin more varied forms thanever before. From heeled, flat, multi-colored, multi-strapped, patent, glittered to edgyexperimental designs, there isa pair for every occasion and look.
Classic Mary Jane Shoes
Classic Mary Jane Shoes
An oldie but a goodie, marked by a closed round-toed silhouette with asimple strap across the feet. This timeless styleoften comes in solid-coloured finishes that will easily complement anylook.
An oldie but a goodie, marked by a closed round-toed silhouette with asimple strap across the feet. This timeless styleoften comes in solid-coloured finishes that will easily complement any look.
Classic Mary Jane Shoes
An oldie but a goodie, marked by a closed round-toed silhouette with asimple strap across the feet. This timeless styleoften comes in solid-coloured finishes that will easily complement anylook.
An oldie but a goodie, marked by a closed round-toed silhouette with asimple strap across the feet. This timeless styleoften comes in solid-coloured finishes that will easily complement any look.
Platform Mary Jane Shoes
Platform Mary Jane Shoes
An edgier and grungier version of the classic Mary Janes. These stylesareoften set atop chunky platforms, such as sturdy lug soles, and featurethicker T-bar straps. For the bold fashionista, avant-garde andsculpturaldesigns are perfect for showing off your sartorial prowess.
An edgier and grungier version of the classic Mary Janes. These styles areoften set atop chunky platforms, such as sturdy lug soles, and featurethicker T-bar straps. For the bold fashionista, avant-garde and sculpturaldesigns are perfect for showing off your sartorial prowess.
Platform Mary Jane Shoes
An edgier and grungier version of the classic Mary Janes. These stylesareoften set atop chunky platforms, such as sturdy lug soles, and featurethicker T-bar straps. For the bold fashionista, avant-garde andsculpturaldesigns are perfect for showing off your sartorial prowess.
An edgier and grungier version of the classic Mary Janes. These styles areoften set atop chunky platforms, such as sturdy lug soles, and featurethicker T-bar straps. For the bold fashionista, avant-garde and sculpturaldesigns are perfect for showing off your sartorial prowess.
Mary Jane Flats
Mary Jane Flats
Typically seen as the “cousin” of ballerinashoes,Mary Jane flats come in an array of designs. From pointed toes toeasy-to-wear slingbacks and patterned or quilted finishes, thislow-heeledstyle is great for all-day wear.
Typically seen as the “cousin” of ballerina shoes,Mary Jane flats come in an array of designs. From pointed toes toeasy-to-wear slingbacks and patterned or quilted finishes, this low-heeledstyle is great for all-day wear.
Mary Jane Flats
Typically seen as the “cousin” of ballerinashoes,Mary Jane flats come in an array of designs. From pointed toes toeasy-to-wear slingbacks and patterned or quilted finishes, thislow-heeledstyle is great for all-day wear.
Typically seen as the “cousin” of ballerina shoes,Mary Jane flats come in an array of designs. From pointed toes toeasy-to-wear slingbacks and patterned or quilted finishes, this low-heeledstyle is great for all-day wear.
Mary Jane Pumps
Mary Jane Pumps
Featuring block heels or stilettos thatareeye-catching and sophisticated, the Mary Jane pump is the ladylikeiterationthat can take you from the boardroom to an after-party with ease.
Featuring block heels or stilettos that areeye-catching and sophisticated, the Mary Jane pump is the ladylike iterationthat can take you from the boardroom to an after-party with ease.
Mary Jane Pumps
Featuring block heels or stilettos thatareeye-catching and sophisticated, the Mary Jane pump is the ladylikeiterationthat can take you from the boardroom to an after-party with ease.
Featuring block heels or stilettos that areeye-catching and sophisticated, the Mary Jane pump is the ladylike iterationthat can take you from the boardroom to an after-party with ease.
How to wear and style Mary Jane shoes
Despite its origins as a shoe associated with schoolgirls, the Mary Jane has evolved into atruly versatile style thatwill suit virtually all occasions and outfits. By varying design elements such as heel shapeand height, strap thicknessand type of closures, this iconic silhouette has proven to be an excellent source forcreative re-imagining. Its uniqueblend of vintage charm and admirable adaptability to ever-changing trends means that theMary Janes occupies a rare andcovetable spot in the fashion world — one in which it is perceived as both timeless and ripefor a refresh. Thus, italways remains relevant and never goes out of style.
Most contemporary women’s shoes are designed to beworn with or without hosiery — for example, boots and sneakers shouldideally be paired with socks while open-toed sandals are meant to go over bare feet. MaryJanes, however, would look andfeel just as good whether or not there is a layer of fabric between skin and shoe. This easeand flexibility of wear isthe main reason why they need not strictly be cold or warm-weather shoes, and can be wornseamlessly across the seasons.Simply slip them on and go on hot sunny days, and match them with thick socks or leggingswhen the temperature dips.
Depending on their design and the outfit you wear them with, Mary Janes can come across assweet and feminine, cute andquirky, preppy and punk or polished and practical. The range of looks and occasions thatthey can fit into is nothingshort of astounding — all you need is a little creativity and the right pair for yourpurpose.
In neutral tones — black, cream, nude— the Mary Jane is a beloved style staple that deserves a spot in every shoecollection. However, when rendered in bright hues, such aspurple, pink,red or even lime green, it is a delightfulstatement accessory that can uplift an entire outfit. To add visual interest to your look,go for a pair in aneye-catching print or finish, such as gingham or tweed.
Casual / Off-Duty / Vacation
Due to the comfort and versatility they offer,Mary Janes are fantastic shoes to wear on the weekends and on holidays —they will complement a diverse range of casual outfits while still making youlook put-together. Denim and Mary Janeswork unexpectedly well together, as the cool youthfulness of the former is agreat match for the sweet femininity of thelatter. A cropped t-shirt, boyfriend jeans and leather Mary Jane flats make fora fuss-free and chic combination. For agirlier take on casual-dressing with Mary Janes, opt for the always-prettysundress and wear it with sweet pastel-huedMary Janes that sit on sturdy block heels. To create a laid-back yet fashionableaesthetic, reach for chunky-soledplatform Mary Janes that will elevate off-duty staples like linen shorts andslip skirts with ease.
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Workwear / Office / Professional
The Mary Jane was chosen as school shoes for both their practicality and formal/ semi-formal appearance. These traitsmake them particularly suited for modern workplaces,especially those where dress codes lean towards the stricter side.Their classic, elegant silhouette is a great canvas on which to apply variousdesign elements and details — depending onthese, one pair can have a completely different aesthetic to the next. Roundedtoes and short cylindrical heels exude ademure femininity when matched with a modest dress, while a red triple-strappedpair set on thick block heels is greatfor power-dressing and will complement a sharp pantsuit perfectly. Glossy black Mary Janesfeaturing striking metallichardware can be worn with black leggings to polish up less formal ensembles,such as a collared blouse and skirtcombination. In more relaxed working environments, Mary Janes with distinctiveridged soles will inject an edgy touchinto your look while remaining comfortable enough for all-day wear.
Evening / Glamour / Special Occasions
Although the Mary Jane traditionally has a down-to-earth, goodie-two-shoes vibe,it will also certainly not look out ofplace at more glamorous events. While the stiletto pump may come more easily tomind when one thinks of eveningfootwear, the humble Mary Jane has charm enough to steal the show at anyspecial occasion. Attend a garden wedding in afloral midi-dress and lovely bow-strapped Mary Janes, and you will definitely beamong the best-dressed guests. Take thespotlight at a fancy evening soirée in an ethereal blush pink organza gown and apair of metallic gold-toneddouble-strapped Mary Janes. For a night out on the town, create an electric lookwith a black silk wrap-dress, achain-strap mini bag and impossible-to-miss red slingback Mary Jane pumps —these shoes will stay securely andcomfortably on your feet through hours on the dance floor.
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The benefits of Mary Jane shoes
Mary Janes are a wardrobe mainstay thanks to their all-star appeal — regardless of season,weather, or even age. Besidesboasting a timeless charm and versatility that transcends passing trends, one of the mainselling points of the MaryJane shoe style is that they are podiatrist-approved as well. Featuring a supportive frontstrap — or multiple straps,depending on the style — that not only looks stylish but also provides the wearer with acustom and comfortable fit thatdoesn’t slip throughout the day, they allow for a more even distribution of the shoe weightacross the entire foot,allowing you to walk and stand in them for longer periods of time.
Now made available in a variety of material and styles, there’s a Mary Jane shoe for any andevery occasion.Traditionally made from high-quality leather that is designed to withstand daily use,classic Mary Janes are a worthyinvestment that will become a long-lasting staple piece in your wardrobe for years to come.While leather Mary Janeswill continue to captivate, the fashion forward can look to patterned and coloured MaryJanes that are crafted fromcanvas and synthetic fabrics instead. Eye-catching and visually striking, these styles willallow you to boldly expressyour sense of style and experiment with different textures and finishes.
How to care for Mary Jane shoes
Caring for your new pair of Mary Janes is really no different from how you would withany other shoe. But regardless ofthe colour, material, sole, shape and style of your new favourite go-to, the first stepyou can take to ensure that theystay in pristine condition is to minimise stains — try not to wear them to incrediblyrough or muddy terrains.
Another key factor in ensuring the longevity of your shoes is to use shoe care products,including waterproofing spraysand leather conditioners. Whether it’s faux leather, patent leather, leather, recycledplastic or fabric, these shoecare products can really extend the shelf-life and wearability of your shoes.
Lastly, clean your shoes regularly. Using a simple fibre cloth or a soft bristle brushto wipe the upper parts of theshoes goes a long way in keeping them polished and clean. Plus, it would also helpremove minor scuff marks, wear andtear that appear as a result from everyday use. Don’t forget to also take some time toclean the soles of your MaryJanes, which are often the most neglected parts where dirt and grime can accumulate.Whatever the type of soles yourMary Janes come fitted with — ridged soles, chunky platforms, or dainty low-block heels— cleaning them will definitelyensure that your cherished pair can be worn for years to come.
With a fuller knowledge of the Mary Jane’s cultural significance and continued relevancein the fashion world, we hopethat you will be better able to appreciate the charm and utility of this classic stylestaple. There is a pair of MaryJanes to suit any taste and occasion, and a shoe collection is definitely incompletewithout them. Browse our wide arrayof Mary Jane shoes — you may just find a new-to-you version to fall in lovewith.
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