In recent seasons, the humble Mary Jane style has rebounded to style prominence, and the variety of styles and ways to wear them has firmly convinced me that these might be the most versatile shoe around. Dating back to the beginning of the 20th century, this shoe has a long history and it's easy to see why the buckled style has made a comeback for 2024. As we know, fashion is cyclical, and right now, this silhouette has been rediscovered and returned to the daily lexicon and daily wardrobes of most fashion people around. The appeal of Mary Janes come from the preppy style and French influence that is evidently having a moment right now. (Just look to ballet flats returning.) But Mary Janes have diversified their form—from sky-high stacked heels to minimalist flats, ensuring they fit easily into a variety of wardrobes.
This combination of bold red and blue denim is so good.
The brilliance of Mary Janes can be extended further than the variety of heel heights to suit all wearers. Designers and creators have taken the identifying feature of the shoe, the buckle details, and played on this with numerous straps, embellished detailing and varied colourways. The styling of this shoe makes it even more endearing if that's possible. Despite being an elegant shoe, it lends its-self as much to eveningwear as daily jaunts, with styling ranging from shorts to jeans to midi dresses and mini skirts.
In celebration of the return of this shoe, I've highlighted the best Mary Janes at varied heel heights, and added some examples of ways to wear them this season.
HOW TO STYLE MARY JANES
Looking for flat shoes for evening? Enter Mary Janes.
The multi-strap detail adds to the feminine feel of this pair.
This bold platform pair comes courtesy of Nodaleto.
Flat Mary Janes are the chic shoe you can wear all day long.
Even trending maxi skirts suit a pair of Mary Janes.
This entire look feels incredibly contemporary.
Clearly socks and Mary Janes are a winning combo.
Anouk shows how fitted tailoring and Mary Janes go hand in hand.
A spring-ready look I'm excited to recreate.
The square toe adds a fresh feel to this classic shoe.
SHOP THE BEST MARY-JANE FLAT SHOES
The square toe is such a nice touch.
Ganni has reconsidered the silhouette with a boxy sole and embellished fastening.
A cream shade elevates any style beyond their price tag.
Le Monde Beryl is all about beautiful Mary Janes.
These could easily pass for designer.
I love this chestnut brown shade.
A trending shade for 2024.
SHOP THE BEST MARY JANE MID-HEEL SHOES
The mid heel gives a little boost to this pair.
These will look great with blue denim.
Trust Jimmy Choo to elegantly combine patent and smooth leather.
I'd style this silver pair with everything from jeans to dresses.
Silver footwear is having a major moment.
Take any outfit to new heights with these sleek shoes.
SHOP THE BEST MARY JANE PLATFORM SHOES
A pair I dream of owning.
Well done, Carel.
Tap into the boho trend with this 70's style pair.
Reformation's bold buckle pair are particularly striking.
Nodaleto has focused on refining contemporary Mary Janes.
A stand-out shoe.
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