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27 Styling Ideas for Wearing Mary Jane Shoes, From Casual to Dressy
How to Wear Mary Jane Shoes: 27 Ways to Style, From Casual to …
Introduction to Mary Jane Shoes
Mary Jane shoes are an ageless style staple. Introduced in the early 20th century, their charm has captivated women’s souls around the world due to their iconic and timeless design. They’re both practical and fashionable with a broad range of colors, fabrics, and styles.
Though they were initially a popular footwear choice for younger girls, modern fashion has proven Mary Janes aren’t only confined to the playground. These versatile shoes have transcended generations, becoming popular choices for both casual and formal wear among women today.
With so many possible combinations, one might feel overwhelmed about how to style them aptly. We’ll guide you through 27 ways, you can wear your Mary Jane shoes to enable you to master this classic look effectively, no matter the occasion.
Let’s dive into it. Meet Jenny. She is a fashion enthusiast and owns a few pairs of Mary Jane shoes of different types and styles. Here’s how she styled them:
- Sweater dress with black patent leather Mary Janes.
- Midi denim skirt with red ankle strap Mary Janes.
- Checked trouser suit with platform Mary Janes.
- Ankle-length jeans and cream Mary Jane flats.
- Pleated midi skirt with retro velvet Mary Janes.
- Leather jacket, skinny biker jeans, and Mary Jane pumps.
Different Types of Mary Janes
Mary Janes were originally designed as one-strap shoes, but leap forward a century or so, designers now run wild with their imaginations by changing color, material, and style. This development has made them adaptable enough to fit any wardrobe style.
There are various types of Mary Janes, including flats, high heels, platforms, and wedges. The type you choose will largely depend on the occasion you’re dressing for and the level of comfort you’re looking to achieve.
From leather to patent, velvet to canvas, studded to floral-printed ones, Mary Janes vary quite a bit in material as well. But fear not! We’ll provide you with several ways to style all those different types of Mary Janes you might have got collecting dust in your wardrobe.
Let’s again see Jenny’s choices:
- Stencil rose maxi dress with patent black high heeled Mary Janes.
- Slouchy suit pants with flat two-strap Mary Janes.
- Distressed skinny jeans with platform Mary Janes.
- Animal print blazer outfit and mock croc square toe Mary Janes.
- Leather culottes with studded block heel Mary Janes.
- Fluffy pink detailed cropped jumper with white floral printed Mary Janes.
Seasonal Styling: Spring and Summer
Mary Jane shoes can be an exceptional choice for spring and summer seasons. Their wide strap design allows ventilation while securing a perfect fit. They also pair wonderfully with light and airy outfits common during these warmer months.
Plain or colorfully decorated, they inject a fresh and youthful touch to any outfit whether it’s a cute summer frock or casual shorts. Moreover, choosing a pair with an ankle strip can add the illusion of slimmer and longer legs.
From breezy boho dresses to comfy culottes, here’s how you can style your Mary Janes for a lovely spring/summer look.
Jenny styled her Mary Janes like this in spring and summer:
- Stripe nautical midi dress with white flat Mary Janes.
- Wrap silk dress with colorful embellished Mary Janes.
- Bermuda shorts and linen blouse with suede Mary Janes.
- Boho maxi gown with cut-out brown Mary Janes.
- Paperbag waist trousers and satin tank combo with double strap Mary Janes.
- Curve smock mini sundress with cream colored Burlap Mary Janes.
Seasonal Styling: Autumn and Winter
Stepping into the cooler months doesn’t mean you must bid adieu to your Mary Janes. They can easily transition to become a perfect pair of warm shoes, especially if they’re made from warm materials like velvet or leather.
Besides, they work great with cozy fall or winter garb such as chunky knits, plaid skirts, and textured tights. Laddering up warm layers with these shoes gives a classily chic style, ensuring you stay elegantly snug throughout the season.
Paired with woolen stockings or funky patterned socks, Mary Janes serve a neat touch while providing extra warmth. Let’s explore some autumn/winter inspired outfits.
Jenny successfully managed to pull off her wardrobe outfit like this in autumn and winter:
- Chunky knit jumper and midi plaid skirt paired with velvet Mary Janes.
- Cozy turtle neck, flare jeans with leopard print Mary Janes.
- Luxurious cashmere ensemble combined with red patent leather Mary Janes.
- Tweed blazer with woolen culottes and T-strap Mary Janes.
- Quirky printed leggings, sweater dress, and matte black Mary Janes.
- Leather skirt, thick patterned tights, and brogue styled Mary Janes.
Casual Days: Everyday Styling
For casual days, comfort is the top priority. Luckily, like most flat shoes, Mary Janes offer this in spades. Arguably, they are one of the most comfortable shoe styles available — hence their long-standing popularity, transcending decades.
Mary Janes offer versatility that can be paired with various types of clothing items for both relaxed or semi-casual getup. They complement jeans, chinos, dresses to rompers, and shorts nicely, making them a favorite go-to footwear choice for many fashionistas.
Let’s cover some chic yet cozy everyday outfit ideas you can try out with your pair of Mary Janes.
In her casual days, Jenny keeps it simple like this:
- Skinny jeans, basic tee and brown leather Mary Janes.
- Jumpsuit with metallic Mary Janes and no-show socks.
- Distressed boyfriend jeans with double strap patent Mary Janes.
- Overalls with striped top and canvas Mary Janes.
- High waisted mom jeans and cropped sweater with daisy-printed Mary Janes.
- Denim slim fit dungaree with blue satin Mary Janes.
Special Occasions: Formal Styling
At first glance, Mary Janes might seem playful and girly, but with the right styling, they can be a chic choice for formal occasions too. In terms of versatility, it’s hard to beat a pair of high-heeled or patent leather Mary Janes.
The elegance of shiny patent leather, the charm of a strap and the formality of a high heel – these shoes are perfect for an office setting or an after-hours business dinner. Pair them with crisp tailored pieces or elegant dresses to create a sleek professional look.
So let’s go down the route of some classic & sophisticated outfit ideas.
On formal occasions, Jenny opts for:
- Black pencil skirt, crisp shirt and patent leather high heeled Mary Janes.
- Blush sheath dress paired with nude colored platform Mary Janes.
- Tailored suit set and black stacked-heel Mary Janes.
- Midi-length floral dress and gold accented Mary Janes.
- Maxi shirt dress combined with suede wedge Mary Janes.
- Classy jumpsuit teamed up with glittering Mary Janes.
Styling with Accessories
One aspect of making an outfit stand out is coordinating accessories, and this also applies when styling Mary Jane shoes. It’s all about creating balance in your overall look.
Accessories such as bags, jewelry, belts, scarves, hats or even statement socks to wear with your Mary Janes can truly elevate your style. The trick is to match the tone of your shoes with your accessories; If you’re wearing bright Mary Janes, keep your accessories neutral and vice versa.
Let’s go through how some well-picked accessories can redefine your look with Mary Janes.
Jenny didn’t forget her accessories while dressing up!
- Retro round glasses and beret hat with Victorian style Mary Janes.
- Tortoiseshell hoops, crossbody bag and Mule Mary Janes.
- Stacked bracelets, crochet handbag, and canvas Mary Janes.
- Gemstone studs, leather belt and Brogue style Mary Janes.
- Statement necklace, oversized clutch, and copper toned Mary Janes.
- Ribbed thigh-high socks paired with flat Mary Janes.
In Conclusion
Evidently, Mary Jane shoes have more potential than just a schoolgirl’s shoe. The previously little girls’ schoolyard fashion staple has evolved to become an ageless footwear style that fits several occasions.
From young girls to professional women, everybody can exploit their exquisite versatility — from casual to fancy outings. Indeed, with the right attitude and styling, you can truly bring out their charisma!
Hopefully, this guide will inspire you to reintroduce them into your daily looks, breathe new life into old pairs, or even encourage you to invest in a new pair of Mary Janes!
Summary Table
Styles | Examples (Jenny’s Picks) |
---|---|
Different types | patent black high heeled, flat two-strap, platform etc. |
Spring/Summer look | Stripe nautical midi dress, wrap silk dress etc. |
Autumn/Winter look | Chunky knit jumper and midi plaid skirt, cozy turtle neck etc. |
Casual style | Skinny jeans, basic tee and brown leather Mary Janes etc. |
Formal styling | Black pencil skirt, crisp shirt and patent leather high heeled Mary Janes etc. |
Accessories | Retro round glasses and beret hat with Victorian style Mary Janes etc. |