"Earning its second consecutive nomination for one of fall’s top footwear trends is the ballet flat. More specifically, the Mary Jane: ballet flats that feature a single strap (or two, or three…) arching across the top of the foot. Though it’s likely you once sported a schoolyard version, today’s Mary Janes have taken on more matured, polished forms completely void of the juvenile look of our yesteryears.
Although I’m not asking you to permanently retire your ankle boots this fall, I am suggesting you give your booties a much-needed rest by stepping into a pair of Mary Janes–whether for the first time or for the first time in a long time. These strappy flats are what I like to label as a fashion unicorn: They’re every bit as practical as they are stylish. A Mary Jane’s signature top strap secures the foot in place and bids a quick adieu to any of those pesky blisters normally associated with a classic pair of ballet flats. Don’t be mistaken, though—however functional Mary Janes may be, they still manage to pack an insanely chic punch.
While I agree that, come fall, ankle boots feel like a particularly safe footwear choice, you’d be hard-pressed to convince me that a Mary Jane is not more versatile. In comparison, the shoe’s low profile will ensure you skip the whole, “But, what pants do I wear?” conversation that’s usually tethered to a pair of basic booties. Whether worn on their own or styled with a slouchy sock, Mary Janes remain pretty season-less, acting as a sandal replacement in the warmer months or boot alternative in the cooler ones.
Ready to strap into a pair of Mary Janes? Here are some styling ideas to get you started—plus my 20 favorite options to shop now.
How to Style Mary Jane Flats
With a Rugby Polo and a Mini Skirt
If you haven’t heard, rugby polos are trending for fall, but not in the exclusively sporty style that Ilona Maher—hi, I’m your biggest fan!—wears. Think: more posh and Oxford-like, as seen on schoolboy prepsters played by Jacob Elordi in Saltburn. The casual top is replacing our usual tanks and tees this fall, and is being worn with more juxtaposed styles like mini skirts and Mary Janes.
With Fun Socks and a Matching Set
Gone are the days of switching out your Reeboks for stilettos, like Working Girl’s Melanie Griffith. With today’s office culture and a wider availability of functional-yet-fashionable flats, women are no longer forced to choose between comfort and style when it comes to workwear. Although a pair of Mary Janes can be individually statement-worthy, adding a fun sock creates a surprising, fashion-forward spin. And since the unexpected combo is likely to do all of the (styling) work for you, go ahead and let your boss know that you’ll be logging off early.
With Cuffed Jeans and a Long-Sleeve
There is no more supreme outfit combo than jeans and a tee. No matter your style inclination, this laid-back duo is the perfect starting point for any fall ensemble. By swapping your sporty sneakers for a pair of Mary Janes, your otherwise casual look will appear a bit more put-together. And while you could certainly add another layer up top (depending on the temperature), I’m personally drawn to a stand-alone ribbed or pointelle long-sleeve for a more effortless look.
With a Mini Dress Layered Over a Tee
In sticking to the shoes’ more feminine roots, styling Mary Janes with a mini dress makes for the most natural pairing. But in order to refrain from copying the schoolgirl looks of our youth, try adding an additional layer underneath your dress, like a mesh turtleneck or cotton tee. Bonus points for chic accessories like an East-West bag or a rosette choker.
With Colorful Socks and Sheer Tights
When it comes to cooler temps, there is nothing more endearing than a pair of socks layered over sheer tights. Topped with a pair of Mary Janes? You have yourself a winning combo. This ultra-chic pairing is perfect for those times when you can’t bear to zip into another pair of boots, but also don’t want to become a victim to the cold. In this case, the red socks help to break up the all-black look and work to offset some of the masculine outfit details by drawing attention to the more feminine footwear.
With Athletic Shorts and an Oversized Blazer
Nothing has me running toward a pair of drawstring shorts faster than the outfit in this photo. There are so many opposing elements here that surprisingly, harmoniously work. If you were to strip this outfit down to just the tee and shorts, I can’t help but picture the She’s the Man version of Amanda Bynes. But once you start to add in the other components like the oversized blazer and the strappy Mary Janes, the look rapidly shifts gear into a smartened-up, it-girl ensemble. I’ll have whatever she’s having, please!
With a Spot of Leopard
Leopard print naturally feels a bit edgier; but when styled with a pair of Mary Janes, the shoes’ romanticized roots help to soften the spotted print’s “catch me if you can” attitude. Depending on your style preference, this sophisticated-yet-spicy pairing has the ability to blend in or stand out. Top it with colorful accessories for a statement-making ensemble or take the minimalist approach and opt to style the combination with other neutrals.
The Best Mary Jane Flats For Fall
Tinsley Crisp, Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer
Tinsley Crisp is a Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer at The Everygirl and specializes in reporting on the season’s latest trends and hottest products. As a New York City-based stylist, she’s committed to injecting joy into the art of getting dressed and delivering attainable yet aspirational content to our readers.