Mary Jane shoes are known for its timeless, charming, and distinctive design. These women’s shoes typically feature a low heel or flat sole and a rounded toe. Their signature feature is the strap that crosses over the top of the foot, secured with a buckle or button. This strap adds both style and functionality, offering extra support and a secure, comfortable fit.

With a history spanning over a century, Mary Jane shoes and fashion continues to be a favorite style for women and girls alike. Their popularity stems from their practicality and versatility. Interestingly, Mary Jane’s fashion is also highly adaptable, since the shoes can be paired with almost any type of clothing. Whether casual or formal, for work or play. 

However, the popularity of Mary Jane shoes isn’t just about its adaptable nature. There’s a rich history that has shaped their lasting appeal and its popularity. Plus, there are several types of this shoe for women that you need to know. 

Let’s explore more in the full breakdown!

The Reason Why Mary Janes Shoes Are so Popular

Before the term Mary Jane became popular, these shoes were originally called bar shoes due to the “bar” that crosses over the top of the foot. However, in the early 20th century, they quickly gained recognition thanks to their association with a character named Mary Jane from the Buster Brown comic strip. Characterized by their rounded toe and a single strap that elegantly crosses the middle of the foot. Thus, these shoes became an instant hit. 

Initially made from luxurious leather, they were known for their practicality and all-day comfort, and were first embraced as staple footwear for school uniforms and formal occasions. Now, these shoes is commonly seen paired with everything from playful dresses to polished outfits.

Over time, these shoes have evolved along with the ever-changing fashion world. The strap design, which was once secured with a button or buckle, has transformed with Velcro fastenings and multiple-strap variations. 

This evolution ensures they will remain relevant in the fashion world for decades to come. 

Types of Mary Janes Shoes

There are several types of these shoes you should know about, such as:

1. Classic Mary Jane Shoes

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Timeless and elegant, this black Mary Jane shoe features a closed round-toe silhouette with a simple strap across the foot. This enduring design often comes in solid finishes that effortlessly complement any outfit.

2. Mary Jane Platform Shoes

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A bolder and grungier take on the classic. The black Mary Jane platform shoes often feature thick platforms, such as sturdy lug soles, and a chunkier T-bar strap. Ideal for fashion risk-takers, the avant-garde and sculptural design is perfect for showcasing your bold sense of style.

3. Mary Jane Flats

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Often seen as the “cousin” of ballerina shoes, the flats come in a variety of designs. From pointed toes to easy-to-wear slingbacks and finishes like patterns or quilting. This red Mary Jane flat shoes and low-heeled style is perfect for all-day wear.

4. Mary Jane Pumps

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Featuring eye-catching and sophisticated block heels or stilettos. Mary Jane pumps are an elegant iteration that can take you seamlessly from the boardroom to the after-party.

Mary Jane Fashion Outfit Ideas

There are several outfit ideas by pairing these shoes with various pieces of clothing that you can consider as an inspiration to elevate a fresh and bold look:

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This look blends a vintage tee and mini skirt with classic Mary Janes and white socks, creating a cool, retro-inspired outfit with a modern edge.

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This outfit combines a vintage floral midi dress with a black corset belt and classic black Mary Janes with white socks, creating a sweet yet edgy look.

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This outfit pairs a preppy argyle sweater vest with a pleated mini skirt and glossy black Mary Jane shoes with white socks, creating a youthful, school-inspired look with a trendy edge.

That was the explanation about why Mary Janes are so popular and also the types of these shoes. With a deeper understanding of Mary Jane’s cultural significance and its ongoing relevance in the fashion world. 

Hopefully you’ll be able to better appreciate the charm and versatility of this classic style. There’s a pair of Mary Janes for women on every occasion, and no shoe collection is truly complete without them.

If you haven’t found the right Mary Janes shoes or any other shoes for women, do not be worried. You can discover plenty of Mary Janes Malaysia collections at ZALORA for women. 

Elevate your fresh and bold looks with trendy Mary Janes for women on sale now!