Mary Janes: How to Style Them

Mary Janes may be associated with school uniforms but are a timeless vintage style that is suitable for any age. Mary Janes are suitable for formal and casual looks.

In recent seasons you’ve probably seen these strapped shoes, thanks to shows such as Bridgerton. These shoes come in a variety of colors and variations, ranging from chunky black heels to pink ballet flats. Their versatility is limitless. You can combine them with many outfits, from pleated skirts and trousers to dresses.

I will show you how to wear Mary Janes. I will give examples of what to wear with them and pick fashion pieces that go with them.

What Are Mary Jane Shoes

Mary Jane shoes get their name from the comic strip “Buster Brown”, created by Richard Felton Outcault. The shoes are named after the character Mary Jane in a comic strip. Although initially children wore these shoes to school adults still do.

What are Mary Janes? Classic Mary Janes have a closed-toe and flat ballerina shoe with at least 1 strap on the top of the feet. Mary Janes don’t always have to be flat. They can also come in chunky heels and platform styles. Mary Janes are often associated with vintage or preppy styles.

What to wear with Mary Janes

Mary Janes can be worn with any outfit. They are versatile and timeless. There are many options available, from jeans to dresses to pleated skirts, and tights or socks.

We will be looking at some outfits you can wear with Mary Janes. If you’re looking for some outfit inspiration, read on!

1. Pleated Skirt

Pleated skirts have been around for a long time and are a timeless classic. If you want to keep it casual, wear a graphic T-shirt with the skirt. Wear white socks for a more schoolgirl-like look.

This outfit is perfect for a class or library. If you prefer a dressier look, add some cool earrings, tights and a faux-leather moto jacket. With these swaps, you could easily transform this outfit for nighttime.

2. Dresses

Who said these shoes had to be simple. The baby blue color of these Mary Janes and the daisy print make them stand out. When I first saw them, I knew that I had to include them in this article!

As seen in the picture above, these shoes would be great with a dress of a solid or plain color in a lace pattern and some jewelry. These shoes would also look great with a chambray dress or shirt dress in spring or summer. This combination is perfect for Easter dinner or picnics, as well as Sunday brunches.

3. Jeans

Even though jeans are my favorite piece of clothing, I tend to pair them with sneakers or boots on most days. ASOS’s cute black patent Mary Janes are making me reconsider. Pairing other footwear with jeans can make you look more stylish!

Mary Janes are a great way to spice up your footwear when you wear jeans. Start with a pair of black Mary Janes like those shown above. Then, you can try other styles, colors and patterns.

This outfit would be perfect for a lunch with friends. This outfit is great for spring with a sweater, or in summer with a graphic T-shirt.

Another tip: If heels aren’t for you, try wearing flat ballet Mary Janes with straight-leg jeans.

4. Casual Shorts

You can wear Mary Janes and casual shorts for our next outfit. This outfit pairs simple Mary Janes in patent with black bikers shorts and white button-up shirts. Wear a graphic T-shirt to make it more casual.

The shorts make this look casual. This outfit is perfect for going to the library or to have lunch with friends. The shoes are also available in green which will add some color to a neutral outfit.

5. Trousers

Last look is a vintage-inspired combination of gingham cropped trousers and Mary Jane flats.

Wear a solid top to get the look and let your pants make the statement. These gingham pants are my favorite, but any pattern or plaid will do. Mary Jane flats are a cute way to add a touch of chic to your look.

This outfit can be worn to the office, for a date, or even a dinner. Add accessories, such as rings, to make the outfit sparkle. You’re now ready to go wherever the day takes you.

Mary Janes Outfit Ideas: How to Style Mary Janes

Want more outfit ideas? Here are some outfit ideas for Mary Janes. Here are some outfit ideas for every situation, from office to casual.

1. Office Look

Top, Skirt, Shoes, Headband, Watch

Mary Janes can be a great addition to your work wardrobe. Mary Janes not only look cute, but they also go with the professional dress code that is usually found in office settings. You can find low-heeled or flat Mary Janes if you do not want to wear heels.

This outfit is a great fall look. It combines preppy and chic. Start by wearing a plaid skirt that is knee-length. It also features shades of brown which are trendy colors right now, particularly for fall. Then, I added a pussy-bow blouse to give it a professional look. To accessorize, I selected a burgundy watch and headband.

It’s best to stick with simple Mary Janes — black patent with a single strap – for an outfit such as this. The headband and skirt are both colorful and have patterns. You’re all set for the day at work if you bring a bag.

2. Schoolgirl Look

Blazer, Button Down shirt, skirt, shoes, headband, tights

Dark Academia is an emerging trend that draws inspiration from academics, preppy fashion, and school life. If I think about dark academia, then I immediately think of Dead Poets Society. And if I am thinking of preppy style, I instantly think of Heathers. So I wanted to recreate both looks with a plus size-friendly outfit.

The button-down shirt with pleated skirt and t-strap Mary Janes give this outfit a school-like vibe. Wear tights to keep warm and a pearl headband for more interest.

This outfit is Blair Hastings and Spencer Hastings approved. It would be perfect for a study session or reading at a coffeeshop.

3. Feminine Look

Dress, Shoes and Lipstick

Next, the look is more feminine. The Mary Janes will shine. These white shoes are perfect for spring and summer, when the weather is warmer and there’s an occasion to dress up for like Easter. Add the shoes to a chambray shirt dress, like this one, and a green crossbody bag for a stylish look.

Mary Janes can be worn with any feminine look, and not just dresses. I like to pair them with vintage-inspired looks. It’s not the only way to wear Mary Janes.

This outfit is perfect for a summer date or a dinner by the beach. It can also be worn for brunch or a picnic. You’ll always look fabulous no matter where you go! Just apply some lipstick.

4. Casual Look

Shoes, Jeans and Shirts

This final look is casual, with a street-style influence. Mary Janes are often associated with dresses. Mary Janes are also great for casual outfits!

Try a pair of jeans with a lighter wash, or smoother pants, to create a more casual look. Grab a plain tee, and then put on a jacket. When it gets cold outside, this light brown quilted coat is a great option.

You can add a little detail by wearing socks with your Mary Janes. The Mary Janes that I chose for this outfit have a chunky look, which gives it a more casual feel than other styles.

You could wear this look to class at a university, for coffee or when running errands. This is a look I would love to wear. If you like Mary Janes but not dresses or trousers, then jeans are a good option. Wear whatever makes you feel good!

What do you think of our guide on how to style Mary Janes?

What do you think about the outfits that we chose? What outfit would you choose if you were to wear Mary Janes or if this is something you do regularly? Let us know by leaving a comment!