Mary Jane Shoes

Must Have Classic: The Mary Jane Shoe

Mary Jane shoes have come a long way from being just children's footwear. Today, they are a stylish choice for all ages. These beloved cute shoes are well known for their round toe and single (or double) strap across the instep. And in case you’re feeling nostalgic, read all about the history of mary janes in our blog.

Modern designs feature bold colors, unique patterns, and contemporary materials, giving the classic look a fresh twist. Double strap and platform mary jane shoe styles are especially trendy, adding both height and flair. Check out Melissa’s latest jelly shoes for more unique and sustainable options that fit your style.

Mary Jane Shoes vs Ballet Flats

If you’re torn between ballet flats and Mary Jane shoes, let's dive into their unique features to help you find the perfect match for your style and comfort needs.

Design and Structure:

• Mary Jane Shoes: Characterized by their rounded toe, low-cut front, and a strap (or multiple straps) across the instep. Available in various styles, including flat mary jane shoes and platform mary janes.
• Ballet Flats: Known for their simple, slip-on design with a flat sole and a rounded toe, mimicking the look of ballet slippers.

Support and Comfort:

• Mary Jane Shoes: Generally provide more support due to the strap, which helps keep the shoe securely on the foot. Double strap mary janes offer even more stability.
• Ballet Flats: Tend to have minimal support and can sometimes slip off the foot, making them less suitable for extended wear. However, at Melissa, our ballet flats or Mini Melissa baby flats offer strapped options on some designs.

Materials:

• Mary Jane Shoes: Often made from leather, patent leather, or in Melissa’s case 100% recyclable PVC, with a sturdy construction that can include a slight heeled or platform for added height.
• Ballet Flats: Typically made from softer materials like leather, suede, or fabric, with a flexible sole for ease of movement, but usually lacking significant height or structure. Another reason to shop online at Melissa, our ballet flats are made from 100% recyclable and flexible materials, that reduce the use of more delicate fabrics.

Popular Styles of Mary Jane Shoes

Here are some of the most popular styles of Mary Jane shoes:

• Classic Mary Janes: The classic design is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any outfit, whether casual or formal.
• Heeled Mary Janes: The heeled style offers a sophisticated look that pairs well with tailored suits, dresses, and skirts.
• Flat Mary Jane Shoes: Flats are perfect for running errands or enjoying a day of shopping.
• Mary Jane Platforms: Platform Mary Janes provide an extra boost in height while maintaining the comfort and secure fit that the traditional design is known for. This style is ideal for those who want to make a bold fashion statement. For other bold options, explore platform clogs.

With these popular styles, you can find the perfect pair of Mary Jane shoes to match any outfit or occasion.