This classic strappy style is the IT shoe of the season.
Mary Janes
This little strappy shoe is back and in a big way. Whether you had a pair as a toddler, in grade school, or college, it’s time to tap into your school girl vibes and reembrace Mary Janes.
90s and Y2k Revival
This iconic style of shoes was made ultra-popular in the 1990s in the grunge and vamp era. So, it only makes sense that it returned with the rise of the Y2K trend.
High fashion designers first showed them a year ago on Fall 2022 runways, and they have continued to be a big trend in footwear for 2023.
Why? Besides the classic and versatile look, the Mary Jane shoes are supportive and comfortable.
How to Style
Plus, Mary Janes really goes with everything from denim to dresses.
They also work with any sock, from cute short styles or knee-high to channel your inner Cher from Clueless, or no socks, making them perfect for spring.
Style Tip: the variety of styles
The best Mary Janes available now also have a modern spin to them. Lug soles, platform, pink, and pointy-toe options fit right in with the current aesthetic.
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What to Look for
Material: Patent leather is one of the more popular materials used to make Mary Janes, but you can find the style in cotton, suede, or leather.
Fit: Because of the strap, Mary Janes tend to have a very secure fit.
Size: Stick to your shoe size when shopping, and read reviews to determine if you should go up or down a size.
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Here are 14 of the best Mary Janes for the season ahead.
Our Top Picks
Best Black Mary Janes
Budget friendly! This style from Amazon has a classic flat Mary Jane shape with a buckle strap for an adjustable fit.
Rubber soles will prevent slips and falls but also support feet. It’s also offered in six colors like black and red.
Material: leather
Sizes: 5-11
Best Heeled Mary Janes
Make these baby blue patent leather Mary Jane heels your new spring shoe.
Crafted in genuine Italian leather, these heels are walkable thanks to the sturdy block heel.
With a sleek look, they’ll go with everything from jeans to dresses.
Material: Italian genuine patent leather
Sizes: 5-12
Best Square Toe Mary Jane
These black ballet-style Mary Janes prove beautiful and comfortable shoes do exist. The square toe offers a roomy, comfortable fit.
Wear them all day at work, or bring them with you when you travel as a walkable shoe that goes from day to night.
Material: synthetic outsole made with 32% recycled rubber content
Sizes: 5-11
Best Silver Mary Janes
Click your heels together in these silvery ankle-strap shoes. A walkable block heel adds to the retro vintage look.
Secure these onto your feet because when you aren’t walking in the metallic shoes, you’ll want to dance in them.
Material: leather
Sizes: 5-11
Best Mary Jane Espadrille
For a laid-back pair; try this platform espadrille that invokes chill beach vibes.
It’s also a sustainable shoe with buckles made from recycled car components and hangers and jute that is 100% recycled and 100% biodegradable.
Wear these cute platforms with cropped cargo pants or jeans.
Material: canvas and rubber
Sizes: 6-11
Best White Mary Janes
If Mary Janes feel too reminiscent of your old childhood shoes, try this sleek, modern pair from Zara. The block heel and square toe perfectly juxtapose the delicate strappy details.
With the low heel and AIRFIT® sole, you’ll be able to wear these all day long! They would be perfect for a bride, be it the wedding or rehearsal dinner.
Material: Faux patent leather
Sizes: 5-11
Best Mary Jane Pump
Embrace your inner Carrie Bradshaw in these fun shoes. Made in Italy, this two-inch block-heeled pair sparkles without being too blingy.
Don’t save these just for special events; wear them to grab drinks with friends or even on a first date since they are certainly a conversation starter.
Material: fabric upper, leather lining, leather sole
Sizes: 5-12, and half sizes
Best Black Mary Jane Heel
Rugged shoes with traction don’t only exist in a combat boot.
These super femme slingback Mary Janes are supportive thanks to the chunky heel and comfortable thanks to Cloudlift Lite padding.
The fit will keep these securely on your feet from AM to PM, whether you pair them with a skirt or wide-leg jeans.
Material: leather
Sizes: 6-10, and half sizes
Best Pink Mary Janes
This adorable pair is perfect for lounging around the house or running errands around town. A cotton upper combines with a rubber sole to create this cozy shoe with an adjustable strap for a secure fit.
With 45 color choices and a cost of under $15, you might want to grab two to have on hand.
Material: cotton
Sizes: 5-9, and half sizes
Best Splurge Mary Janes
Gorgeous with a look that will be beyond flattering on your leg, these 3.5-inch heels from Alaïa will always be in style.
Three buckle straps create a sculptural shape with a pointed toe that will shine in glossy patent leather.
For cocktail parties with an LBD, black tie weddings with a floor-length gown, or even a fancy dinner out with a sleek jumpsuit; this will be the beloved pair in your closet.
Material: Rayon
Sizes: S-XL
Best Low Heel Mary Janes
Show off your feet in this low-profile suede Mary Janes. Plush foam padding, a pointy toe, and an adjustable strap keep these playful and versatile.
Buyers are impressed by the quality of this pair, elevated enough to wear to a party or entertaining at home.
Material: suede upper, leather lining
Sizes: 3-14, and half sizes
Best Throwback Mary Janes
Look sweet with a bit of edge in these Mary Jane Dr. Martens. The lilac leather combined with the flower buckle closure gives the ultimate 90s and 00s flower power look while the platform gives the shoes a modern look.
We can already see these paired with little breezy sundress all summer long.
Material: Leather
Sizes: 5-11
Most Stylish Mary Janes
Decorate your feet with a pearly strap. A uniquely designed pair of shoes that juxtaposes a beaded texture with smooth leather for a gorgeous result.
Festive for holidays or to kick up your favorite jeans and tee look.
Material: leather
Sizes: 36-42
Best Brown Mary Janes
Calling all vintage lovers! These brown leather heel and platform combo will raise any outfit to new heights.
Lean into the 70s vibes, and pair them with some wide leg corduroy pants. Or go modern and balance the chunky style with a sleek midi skirt.
Material: leather
Sizes: 5-13
Best Velvet Mary Janes
While at first glance, these gorgeous velvet Mary Janes may read dressy holiday party, they actually add the perfect pop of color with dark wash wide leg jeans and a blazer.
The rich green also makes the perfect winter-into-spring transitional color.
Sizes: 5-10.5
Best Leopard Mary Janes
Highlight two classic looks by choosing an animal print pair. Plush faux suede complements the leopard print for a versatile look that can read dressy or casual.
A padded footbed offers cushion and support for a full day’s wear. An excellent way to kick up a travel outfit of leggings or jeans, as well.
Material: faux suede, faux leather
Sizes: 6-12, and half sizes
Best Platform Mary Janes
While Mary Janes tend to have an ultra-feminine look, the lug sole on this pair lends a bit of edge.
The rubber sole will not only add a few inches to your height but is water-resistant and non-slip.
Stable to support you all day, with a look to make you shine and an affordable price tag. No doubt you’ll be styling outfits around these stellar shoes.
Material: PU leather upper, microfiber lining
Sizes: 4-11, and half sizes
Best Bow Mary Janes
Give off ballerina vibes in this square toe and bow Mary Jane. The high-quality soft leather construction is comfortable, as is the roomy fit in the front.
These will seamlessly work with cropped pants or skirts, and accessories beautifully with your gold jewelry.
Material: leather upper, rubber sole
Sizes: IT 36-41
Best Designer Mary Janes
If you’re looking to splurge on a pair of statement Mary Janes, Prada knows what it’s doing. The feminine style is reimagined with geometric design details, like the angular heel and chiseled toe.
While the style is certainly unique, they’re still a versatile shoe. You can wear these to work with a white work shirt, out for a girls’ night, or dressed down with jeans.
Material: Leather
Sizes: 5-10
Pro Tip 😎
Play around your Mary Janes by wearing different styles of socks. Stick to black or white for easy styling, but thickness and height can vary.
This classic feminine pair of shoes is an It shape for spring 2023 and will mix in with all your spring looks.
FAQ
Why do they call them Mary Jane shoes?
Originally called “bar” shoes, the Brown Shoe Company named the style Mary Jane in 1904 after a character in the comic strip Buster Brown.
Are Mary Jane shoes out of style?
Nope. They’re back in a big way this spring. It was not only all over fashion runways but embraced by celebrities and chic TV shows like Gossip Girl, Emily in Paris, and And Just Like That.
Why are Mary Janes so popular?
The shoe’s popularity can be credited to its supportive and comfortable design. It is also a chameleon of shoes, able to look preppy, feminine, edgy, or goth.
Can you wear Mary Jane shoes with a dress?
You can wear Mary Jane with almost any dress and skirt. A certain length can be more flattering depending on the height of the shoe.
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