Mary Janes - oh so versatile and a timeless classic. As one of the most identifiable and traditional shoes dating back to the early 20th century, Mary Janes have evolved alongside fashion to deliver a range of styles that complement every outfit, occasion, look and aesthetic.
But what are they, why are they so popular and how can you style them? Well, you’re in the right place because this guide will reveal all.
What ARE Mary Jane Shoes?
Mary Janes are an iconic symbol of girlhood. Traditionally, they’re known for their simple black leather design, flat or low block heel, singular strap across the instep fastened with a buckle or button and rounded toe. Our Mary Janes are of course, 100% vegan! Historically, they were particularly popular as children’s school shoes. However, since 2016 they have been a staple in the wardrobe of KOI customers internationally.
Their practical and comfortable design makes them incredibly versatile, meaning they can be paired with just about anything. In recent years, the Mary Jane has developed to offer a variety of shapes, styles and designs, including chunky platforms and even high heels, making them a popular choice for people of all ages and aesthetics! (ours have even developed to take the shape of animals!)
Why ARE Mary Janes Called That?
Before the term ‘Mary Jane’ was popularised, they were called ‘Bar shoes’ because of the traditionally black strap that goes across the foot. In the early 1900’s bar shoes became known as Mary Janes when the Brown Shoe Company of Missouri named their bar shoes after the character, Mary Jane, from the Buster Brown comic strip. The term ‘Mary Janes’ has since been cemented in popular culture.
We LOVE Mary Janes at KOI. We’ve taken the classic Mary Jane and given them an edge you’ve never seen before. Made from high-quality materials such as vegan leather and animal-friendly faux suede, our shoes are not only stylish, but also environmentally conscious. Our collection includes metallic, patent, patterned, platform style Mary Janes, and more. Perfect for any ensemble and event!
How Do You Wear Mary Janes?
So, we’ve established that these shoes are super versatile, but how do you style them? We’ve chosen some iconic styles and aesthetics that pair perfectly with our very own Mary Janes.
Timeless
Mary Janes have always delivered a vintage edge. A classic look that has never gone out of style. If that’s the vibe you’re going for then pairing a preppy black Mary Jane shoe such as our Nectar Prime Tale Mary Jane with a collared mini dress and a pair of white frilly socks is your go-to: timeless and classic!
Denim
Pair your favourite jeans with Mary Janes for a refined look. Choose a white or black chunky platform Mary Jane - our Harmony Heart Mary Janes or Obsidian Doll Trident Mary Janes which deliver the best of both worlds - and pair them with a light wash pair of mom jeans as well as a plain T. Add a bit of flair to the look with some black mesh polka dot socks or go without, the choice is yours.
Kawaii
A pretty pair of Mary Janes are a prime statement piece for your super Kawaii outfit. For an ultra feminine look, add our cutesy Tira Mary Janes ‘Aztec Axolotl Edition’ to your wardrobe and pair them with your fave ditsy floral dress. Create a layered look with white tights and white woolly leg warmers.
Coquette
The coquette aesthetic is all about pretty bows and girly styles and our baby pink Fairy Lace Doily Mary Janes offer that delicate sense of sweetness that you’re looking for. Pair with a lace trimmed long-sleeved top and pleated skirt. Finish off the look with a pair of white frilly socks and a silk pastel pink hair bow.
Grunge
For an early 2010’s soft grunge look, why not pair our Iridescent Mary Janes ‘Soap Bubbles Edition’ with an oversized distressed sweater, black mini shorts and a pair of sheer distressed tights? 2014 Tumblr is living for this look.
Casual
Mary Janes have always delivered a vintage edge. A classic look that has never gone out of style. If that’s the vibe you’re going for then pairing a preppy black Mary Jane shoe such as our Nectar Prime Tale Mary Jane with a collared mini dress and a pair of white frilly socks is your go-to: timeless and classic!
Mary Janes - oh so versatile and a timeless classic. As one of the most identifiable and traditional shoes dating back to the early 20th century, Mary Janes have evolved alongside fashion to deliver a range of styles that complement every outfit, occasion, look and aesthetic.
But what are they, why are they so popular and how can you style them? Well, you’re in the right place because this guide will reveal all.
What ARE Mary Jane Shoes?
Mary Janes are an iconic symbol of girlhood. Traditionally, they’re known for their simple black leather design, flat or low block heel, singular strap across the instep fastened with a buckle or button and rounded toe. Our Mary Janes are of course, 100% vegan! Historically, they were particularly popular as children’s school shoes. However, since 2016 they have been a staple in the wardrobe of KOI customers internationally.
Their practical and comfortable design makes them incredibly versatile, meaning they can be paired with just about anything. In recent years, the Mary Jane has developed to offer a variety of shapes, styles and designs, including chunky platforms and even high heels, making them a popular choice for people of all ages and aesthetics! (ours have even developed to take the shape of animals!)
Why ARE Mary Janes Called That?
Before the term ‘Mary Jane’ was popularised, they were called ‘Bar shoes’ because of the traditionally black strap that goes across the foot. In the early 1900’s bar shoes became known as Mary Janes when the Brown Shoe Company of Missouri named their bar shoes after the character, Mary Jane, from the Buster Brown comic strip. The term ‘Mary Janes’ has since been cemented in popular culture.
We LOVE Mary Janes at KOI. We’ve taken the classic Mary Jane and given them an edge you’ve never seen before. Made from high-quality materials such as vegan leather and animal-friendly faux suede, our shoes are not only stylish, but also environmentally conscious. Our collection includes metallic, patent, patterned, platform style Mary Janes, and more. Perfect for any ensemble and event!
How Do You Wear Mary Janes?
So, we’ve established that these shoes are super versatile, but how do you style them? We’ve chosen some iconic styles and aesthetics that pair perfectly with our very own Mary Janes.
Timeless
Mary Janes have always delivered a vintage edge. A classic look that has never gone out of style. If that’s the vibe you’re going for then pairing a preppy black Mary Jane shoe such as our Nectar Prime Tale Mary Jane with a collared mini dress and a pair of white frilly socks is your go-to: timeless and classic!
Denim
Pair your favourite jeans with Mary Janes for a refined look. Choose a white or black chunky platform Mary Jane - our Harmony Heart Mary Janes or Obsidian Doll Trident Mary Janes which deliver the best of both worlds - and pair them with a light wash pair of mom jeans as well as a plain T. Add a bit of flair to the look with some black mesh polka dot socks or go without, the choice is yours.
Kawaii
A pretty pair of Mary Janes are a prime statement piece for your super Kawaii outfit. For an ultra feminine look, add our cutesy Tira Mary Janes ‘Aztec Axolotl Edition’ to your wardrobe and pair them with your fave ditsy floral dress. Create a layered look with white tights and white woolly leg warmers.
Coquette
The coquette aesthetic is all about pretty bows and girly styles and our baby pink Fairy Lace Doily Mary Janes offer that delicate sense of sweetness that you’re looking for. Pair with a lace trimmed long-sleeved top and pleated skirt. Finish off the look with a pair of white frilly socks and a silk pastel pink hair bow.
Grunge
For an early 2010’s soft grunge look, why not pair our Iridescent Mary Janes ‘Soap Bubbles Edition’ with an oversized distressed sweater, black mini shorts and a pair of sheer distressed tights? 2014 Tumblr is living for this look.
Casual
Mary Janes can be edgy and out-there but can also be cool and casual. For cool casual vibes, bag yourself a pair of our classic black chunky 3” platform Mary Janes ‘Faux Leather Edition’ to (figuratively and literally) elevate your outfit. These comfortable platforms are a breeze to walk in and go perfectly with a skirt, jeans or dress.
Are Mary Janes in style for 2024?
From flats to chunky high heels, the Mary Janes of 2024 come in different shapes, sizes, designs, colours and materials. They’re irresistibly adaptable and can be integrated into just about any style of dress. As a timeless classic and loved by many (including Olivia Rodrigo and Gigi Hadid) they’re a clear must-have for any wardrobe and deserve their spot in the fashion hall-of-fame. Got FOMO? Shop Mary Janes today.
Are Mary Janes in style for 2024?
From flats to chunky high heels, the Mary Janes of 2024 come in different shapes, sizes, designs, colours and materials. They’re irresistibly adaptable and can be integrated into just about any style of dress. As a timeless classic and loved by many (including Olivia Rodrigo and Gigi Hadid) they’re a clear must-have for any wardrobe and deserve their spot in the fashion hall-of-fame. Got FOMO? Shop Mary Janes today.
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Bethan is KOI's Creative & Marketing Manager, writing about all things styling, aesthetics, collections and culture! She's been part of the world of KOI since 2020 and knows the products, community and customers like the back of her hand. Bethan has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Fashion Art Direction, and outside of KOI works as a Fashion Stylist & Art Director in the editorial space. Anything styling and creative, Bethan lives and breathes it!