The Only Flat Shoes That Matter If You Want to Look Chic

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(Image credit: The Style Stalker; Pictured: Oak + Fort Ballet Flat ($58))

To test how big a fashion trend is, I assess how prevalent it is both on people and in stores. Do I see it worn often online or on the streets? Can I buy it easily and at all price points? Then, there are my personal litmus tests for whether I'd like to dip my toes in. Is it cute? Is it comfortable?

Well, folks, I'm here to tell you that today's shoe trend, Mary Jane flats, not only passed every one of the above tests with flying colors, but its positive attributes expand from there. Although there are variations of this type of shoe with platforms and heels, the flat version is one of the best, IMHO. It's sleek, functional, and simultaneously a very classic choice you can hold on to for years and years to come. Yes, it's particularly "cool" right now, but to me, the best trends are ones that are rooted in simplicity. The Mary Jane will function more like a basic for your fall and winter wardrobe, and I think it's just the upgrade we all need.

Of course, the proof is in the pudding. In addition to my chic colleague Anna's outfit above, there is no shortage of ways that the style set is wearing these shoes. Ahead, you'll find more outfit snaps featuring this of-the-moment trend, along with some of my favorite options to buy right now, ranging from $50 to $500-plus.

a photo of a woman wearing one of the best mary janes with a white polo layered under a denim mini dress

(Image credit: @emmanuellek_)

a photo of a woman wearing one of the best mary janes

(Image credit: @modedamour)

a photo of a woman wearing one of the best mary janes

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

a photo of a woman wearing one of the best mary janes

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

a photo of a woman wearing one of the best mary janes

(Image credit: @hannamw)

a photo of a woman wearing one of the best mary janes

(Image credit: @cassdimicco)

a photo of a woman wearing one of the best mary janes

(Image credit: @_kirp_)

This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

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Editor-at-Large

Since starting as an intern back in 2013, Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour has held several roles here atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , and she is currently Editor-at-Large. It was a less expected route, seeing as she was graduating from business school at USC when this all began, but it has turned out to be the best one for her. Fast-forward to 2024, and she's moved to NYC from her hometown of Beverly Hills and spends her workdays a little differently from when she was an intern starting out. Currently, she focuses on a weekly mélange of shopping content. As far as her personal style goes, she's largely drawn to classic pieces and neutral basics but will always make an exception for something colorful, printed, or bejeweled as long as it's deemed worthy enough. After all, the only thing she loves more than a good party is dressing up for one. On weekdays, she can usually be found at home eating something delicious for dinner and trying to force her husband to watch Summer House.