Looking to learns how to style Mary Janes in a way that won't break your brain? We got you covered. Mary Janes have become so prolific that in 2025, we have witnessed the Mary Jane-ification of everything. “The Mary Jane is like a virus, and it doesn’t appear to be slowing down,” Vogue's Daisy Jones wrote in February. “If we’re not careful, we’ll have Mary Jane wellies and Mary Jane crocs and Mary Jane hiking boots. Oh wait, all of those things already exist.” Some classics can be left alone and are perfect enough without a flurry of ugly-shoe hybrids, though – and the Mary Jane is one such shoe.
The Mary Jane revival can partly be traced back to Alaïa’s crystal-embellished flats, which fast became a fashion editor's favorite when they were first released back in 2022. Of course, it’s not the first time Mary Janes have tipped into cult territory. Sex and the City fans will recall the episode when Carrie Bradshaw finds a pair of 1994 patent leather heels in the Vogue fashion cupboard, exclaiming, “Manolo Blahnik Mary Janes?! I thought these were an urban shoe myth!”
In recent years, Mary Janes have been big business for design houses, from Miu Miu’s ruched ballerinas to The Row’s understated black leather offering. Meanwhile, mid-priced designer brands like Aeyde and Le Monde Beryl have also become editor-approved.
The beauty of these shoes is that they are simple enough to go with any outfit, no matter the season. Below, see seven ways to style Mary Janes this fall, according to the street-style set.
Combo No. 1: Blazer + shorts + socks
This is a look that has the mark of Lotta Volkova, Miu Miu's much-applauded stylist. A tailored blazer, half-zip sweatshirt, and shorts give the ensemble a bookish, back-to-the-library charm, while offsetting the girlishness of the Mary Janes.
This outfit from the Copenhagen Fashion Week is ideal for in-between seasons, as it blends light summer fabrics with practical autumnal staples. The white floaty skirt is grounded with white socks and chunky Mary Janes, while the waterproof jacket stops it from looking too formal or summery.
Combo No. 3: Navy knit + A-line skirt + white socks
There is something inherently scholarly about black leather Mary Janes, and so it can pay to lean into this aesthetic. Add white pop socks, an A-line navy skirt, a chunky jumper, and a bag big enough for your library books, and you have a grown-up spin on academic dressing that is perfect whether you are going back to school or are way past that era.
This is an outfit that is made for casual Sunday sessions – counter the relaxed feel of a sporty hoodie or track jacket with a tiered skirt, Mary Janes, and a trendy black handbag!
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Combo No. 5: Clashing prints + bold accessories + leather flats
Mary Jane flats are the perfect accompaniment for maximalist, statement skirts, such as Chopova Lowena's pleated carabiner skirt. Your shoes might be sensible and classic, but the rest of your outfit doesn’t need to be – embrace clashing prints and bold accessories.
This is another outfit that has a back-to-school energy, thanks to the pleated miniskirt, grey knee-high socks, and black leather flats. A fashion-forward spin on uniform dressing.
Combo No. 7: Preppy blazer + jeans + red accents
Mary Jane pumps pair perfectly with any style of jeans, but we particularly love them when they fall at the ankle or just above, so the strap across the foot is visible. Plus, a bold red will make them pop even more. Keep the rest of the look simple with a preppy blazer and crewneck cardigan.
