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 shoes 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 2025. 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 comes 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-JANES:
I love the mesh and pointed toe on these.
COS always has a great selection of footwear.
This suede khaki pair has won me over.
Such a cute pearl detail.
Cream looks good with every other colour.
Yes, you read that price right!
I'm seeing these with a poplin skirt and a light cardigan
Wear with a mini skirt and blazer.
These have been high on my radar this season.
Beige always looks elegant.
Where better to buy your Mary Janes from than Sezane?
Super soft and super elegant.
Timeless.
Don't sleep on Vagabond for high-quality, stylish shoes.
The perfect shade of blue.
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Not a Boot, Not a Ballerina—This In-Between Alt Is Cooler Than BothIt's all I want to wear.
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French Girls Rarely Wear Leggings, Unless They’re Paired With This Specific Boot StyleChic every time.
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News Just In: These Are the Winter 2025 Fashion Trends I've Already Spotted French Women WearingThey nail it every time.
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I'm a Fashion Writer Living in Paris—6 Accessories I've Noticed French Women Wear to Elevate Their Winter LooksFrom bags to belts.
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I Just Got Back From Paris—This Is the Jacket, Jeans and Shoe Formula I Saw on Every CornerI'm feeling inspired.
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This High-Street Brand Just Dropped the Most Expensive-Looking Shoe Edit I've Seen This YearTimeless silhouettes with a contemporary twist.
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I’ve Tested Dozens of Designer Bags, But This Elegant Tote Always Wins Me the Most ComplimentsA French-girl favourite.
