Mary Janes have fast become a transitional fashion staple. They made their grand comeback a few years ago, and this season they're coming into their own. Much like autumn is trench coat season, it's Mary Jane's moment to shine too.
Shoppers love the Parisian vibes of the Mary Jane, and I'm personally parking my loafers in favour of the cutesy strapped flats, especially while the weather is warm still. Where loafers give an outfit a masculine edge, Mary Janes lean into the fun, femininity and frivolity.
- Black editor's pick: M&S Leather Flat Round Toe Mary Jane Ballet Pumps, £42 / $70.99
- Mesh editor's pick: Linzi Black Monaco Mesh Mary Jane Pumps, £38 / $80
- Burgundy editor's pick: Boden Camilla Ruched Mary Jane Pumps, £119 / $190
- Bejewelled editor's pick: Hobbs Sabina Jewellery Mary Janes, £109 / $138.75
- Velvet editor's pick: Flabelus Lucrecia Velvet Mary Janes, £118 /
Don't skip Mary Jane heels either. Wear with socks and jeans and you'll find its the ideal accomplice to a simple sweater and denim outfit. And if you’re a Sex and The City stan, you'll know the iconic scene where Carrie got to explore the Vogue fashion closet. “Oh my god!” she screams, as she spots a pair of Manolo Blahnik Mary Janes. “I thought this was an urban myth!”
Another reason to love them? They're comfy. Comfortable Mary Jane shoes are the elevated equivalent of wearing a sneaker or a ballet flat; the straps (single or double, your choice) minimise slipping and give your feet a little more stability than a slip on shoe. Practical and stylish, there's a reason they're trending.
How to style Mary Jane shoes
Treat a pair of Mary Janes as you would a loafer or ballet flat; with jeans, skirts, wide-leg trousers and party wear (heels or flats). Think of them as a smarter alternative to trainers for these in-between weather days, and a more interesting look for evening than a classic pump.
© InstagramThe cool girls are still relying on the classic black styles, but mixing it up with Mary Jane shoes in red, burgundy or brown, and I am a big fan of suede flat Mary Janes. Mesh Mary Janes and cut out styles are still going strong, while bejewelled versions are starting to make their way onto the high street ahead of party season.
Square toes are also in vogue, but if in doubt, stick to the original round toe shape.
© InstagramWear with white, black or red socks, tights or keep it pared back with a flash of ankle and frayed jeans, like influencer Tine Van Cauwenberghe.
How I chose the best Mary Jane shoes
- Style: I’ve searched the high street for chic flat Mary Janes, in black leather as well as velvet, suede and mesh.
- Inclusivity: You’ll find Mary Jane shoes in standard width as well as wide fit, narrow fit and larger sizes too.
- Comfort factor: Where possible, I’ve scrutinised the reviews of the Mary Janes listed to highlight the most comfortable pairs.
- Price: I've thought of all budgets with this, keeping things on the more affordable side.
Best Mary Jane shoes
1/9
M&S Leather Flat Round Toe Mary Jane Ballet Pumps
© M&SEditor's Note:
These fit the bill for a pair of classic, black leather Mary Jane shoes. Includes an adjustable strap for a secure fit, cushioned footbed and leather detailing.
2/9
Linzi Black Monaco Mesh Mary Jane Pumps
© NEXTEditor's Note:
These are front and centre because they're on my wish list - they're stylish yet look so comfy too. These flats lean into the transitional trend of mesh, and are a nice price point for a trend-led design.
3/9
Boden Camilla Ruched Ballet Flats
© BodenEditor's Note:
Boden's autumnal Mary Janes can be dressy or casual, thanks to the rich colour, elevating these from your everyday shoe to a wear-anywear pump.
4/9
Hobbs Sabina Jewelled Mary Janes
© HobbsEditor's Note:
There's no greater shoe for party season than a jewelled flat - comfy but event appropriate, and these Hobbs Mary Janes are spot on.
Gem embellished, they're a great shoe to bridge the gap between smart and casual and look as cool with jeans and a sweater as they do a party outfit.
5/9
Flabelus Lucrecia Velvet Mary Janes
© FlabelusEditor's Note:
Suede Mary Janes are everywhere, and with a wide strap and round toe these Flabelus trending shoes are a stunning buy - and they come in plenty of colours too.
6/9
Vivaia Margot Mary Jane
© VivaiaEditor's Note:
A celebrity favourite, these Mary Janes have been spotted on Alexa Chung, Lea Michele and Aubrey Plaza. As well as the two-tone colourway, these flats come in 18 colourways and are mooted as some of the most comfortable.
7/9
Charles & Keith Silver Gertrude Mary Janes
© Charles & KeithEditor's Note:
For an edgier take on the look, a metallic Mary Jane offers that. Charles & Keith have these fun silver Mary Jane pumps, with a minimal block heel and adjustable strap.
8/9
La Redoute Leopard Mary Janes
© La RedouteEditor's Notes:
With a secure two-strap design and a soft almond toe, these shoes are made to be worn all day long. Easy to dress up for an event or for a day at the office, they're a polished take on the trend.
9/9
Victoria Shoes Animal Print Mary Janes
© VictoriaEditor's Note:
These Spanish made shoes come in multiple animal prints and feature a black vulcanized rubber sole for comfort and flexibility.
Celebrities wearing Mary Jane shoes
From heeled to flat, Mary Janes are so popular among the A-list that you’d be forgiven for thinking no other shoe exists. Flat Mary Janes with lacy minis make for a cute combo from Rita Ora, and Olivia Rodrigo’s classic pair are giving Wednesday Adams-meets-schoolgirl chic.
Dua Lipa is the poster girl, teaming a flat black Mary Jane with jeans and an oversized shirt, and Naomi Watts’ is making a case for Mary Jane heels as eveningwear – her metallic Mary Janes are party-ready.
