Nostalgic Shoes Reimagined

Audrey Miranda | Assistant Director of Marketing March 24th, 2025

How did mary janes get their name? A young character in the 1902 “Buster Brown” comic strip, Mary Jane, wore little black shoes with a strap across the instep, and the name caught on!

Because this style has spanned decades, mary janes are perennially in fashion, and are currently in the limelight.

Over the last few seasons, mary janes have been rethought in a variety of styles and ways to style them, all while keeping their ballet core aesthetic. Their versatile silhouette means they’ll match all your office- and weekend-ready looks. The appeal comes from preppy style and French influence – both of which are having a moment. While originating from a humble form, current variations feature stacked heels, square toes, multi-strap details, and more.

Dolce Vita Reyes Mary Jane

Available at Nordstrom

Stuart Weitzman Emilia Mary Jane Flat

Available at Nordstrom

Rothy's The Max Square Mary Jane

Available at Nordstrom

Maple, Zebra

Available at Steve Madden

Dreaming, Black Embellished

Available at Steve Madden

Brio, Cognac Leather

Available at Steve Madden

Coach Angelina Double Buckle Mary Jane Pumps

Available at Macy's

Jewel Badgley Mischka Keilani Maryjane Evening Pumps

Available at Macy's

Naturalizer Kelly Mary-Jane Flats

Available at Macy's

Dr. Martens Elphie Mary Jane Casual Shoe

Available at Journey's

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Dainty Mary Jane Sneaker

Available at Journey's

Melissa Soft Ballerina Flat

Available at Journey's

Braided Ballet Flats

Available at Zara

Studded Suede Ballet Flat

Available at Zara

Animal Print Ballet Flats

Available at Zara

Studded Ballet Flats with Straps

Available at Mango

Patent Leather-Effect Ballet Flat

Available at Mango

Patent Leather-Effect Ballet Flats

Available at Mango