What Are Mary Janes?

Mary Janes are defined by their distinctive strap across the top of the foot — a design element that dates back to the early 1900s. The style was named after a character in the Buster Brown comic strip, and for decades was primarily associated with children's footwear. Fashion reclaimed the Mary Jane starting in the 1990s, and it has since become a staple in both minimalist and statement shoe wardrobes. The wardrobe versatility of Mary Janes lies in their range. A flat black patent Mary Jane pairs with jeans and a tee for a subtle vintage touch. A chunky-heeled Mary Jane in leather works for the office. A platform Mary Jane in burgundy or forest green makes a statement with dresses and skirts. The strap provides better foot security than mules or slip-ons while maintaining a daintier profile than loafers or oxfords. For capsule wardrobes, a single pair of black Mary Janes — either flat for a casual wardrobe or with a low block heel for a dressier one — covers a surprising range of outfits. They work with cropped trousers, midi skirts, dresses, wide-leg pants, and even shorts in warmer months.

Ana owns black patent Mary Janes with a small block heel. She wears them with tailored trousers to work, with a midi skirt and knit on weekends, and with a little black dress for evening. The shoe reads polished in every context while adding a subtle vintage personality that loafers and heels lack.