Is there any shoe more iconic — or more enduring — than the Mary Jane? With its distinctive strap and timeless silhouette, the Mary Jane has never truly gone out of style. However, in recent seasons, it has evolved from a schoolgirl classic to a runway essential, embraced by fashion insiders and A-list celebrities alike.
From Olivia Rodrigo pairing hers with embellished socks for a Gen Z twist to Natalie Portman stepping out in retro-modern white Mary Jane pumps, it’s clear this classic shoe is having a major moment. With every reimagining — in metallics, platforms, mesh, and glitter — Mary Janes prove just how versatile and fashion-forward they can be.
Whether you’re hunting for a polished flat, a statement heel, or something soft and shearling-lined, today’s Mary Janes are anything but predictable. Ahead, we break down some of the most exciting takes on this beloved style.
1. Embellished Heel: A Touch of Glamour
Dolce & Gabbana’s Mary Jane pumps have been made in Italy from gold mesh and are defined by a striking crystal-embellished block heel
2. Point-Toe Flats: Sleek and Sophisticated
ASOS Mary Jane ballet flats in black
3. Slippers: Cozy Yet Stylish
This style from Nufoot combines the elegance of ballet flats with the fun style of Mary Janes
4. Classic Flats: Timeless Comfort
Made in Italy from glittered leather, these leather ballet flats from Miu Miu have elegant crossover straps and small stacked heels
5. Stiletto Heels: Elevated Elegance
This Jennifer Chamandi stiletto heel is threaded with a removable Mary Jane strap and measured to the millimeter to minimize pressure on your soles
6. Platforms: Bold and Trendsetting
Glossy patent leather intensifies the appeal of a Mary Jane-inspired pump from Jeffrey Campbell set on a blocky heel
7. Block Heels: Fashionable Stability
Camel-colored Marion Parke Bernadette Icon Mary Jane sandals
8. Shearling: Soft, Warm, and Luxe
A roomy Mary Jane from UGG features a braided strap and moisture-wicking textile made entirely from wool but crafted to feel and wear like genuine shearling
9. Patterns: Eye-Catching Designs
These leopard-print Hermione flats from Tabitha Simmons are made in Italy from calf hair to a point-toe silhouette with a smooth suede Mary-Jane strap
How Celebrities Are Styling Mary Janes Today
Few shoes have the staying power of the Mary Jane. Once a schoolgirl staple, the style has evolved into a high-fashion favorite seen everywhere from the front row to the red carpet. Celebrities like Sarah Jessica Parker and Katie Holmes have embraced the silhouette in fresh and modern ways, proving that Mary Janes are far from stuck in the past.
To explore how the trend has stood the test of time, revisit our deep dive into why Mary Jane shoes will never go out of style. And if you’re inspired to add a pair to your own rotation, our guide to the best places to buy Mary Janes will help you find the perfect fit.
👠 Explore Celebrity Moments in Mary Janes:
- 🌟 Katie Holmes’ Gold Velvet Mary Jane Flats — She paired gold Lurex socks with crushed velvet flats for a Broadway-ready outfit that mixed preppy charm with downtown cool.
- 🖤 Katie Holmes in Christian Louboutin Cathedral Mary Janes — A sleek black trench coat and mesh Mary Janes brought high fashion to a casual New York night.
- ✨ Millie Bobby Brown’s Press Tour Mary Janes — During her Electric State promo run, she sported several stylish pairs of Mary Janes that added youth and polish to each look.
- 👑 Sarah Jessica Parker’s Maison Margiela Mary Janes — As Carrie Bradshaw in And Just Like That, she embraced white Mary Janes with a signature vintage twist.