By Meghan Cass
It’s a familiar shoe you’ve known since childhood: the iconic Mary Jane, traditionally crafted from black patent leather with a round toe and buckled ankle strap. And while you may no longer pair them with pinafores and pink tights, Comfortista is happy to report that designers of all kinds – from outdoor experts to the makers of ladylike pumps – were inspired this season by the classic shoe. Not yet convinced?
Here are Comfortista’s top five reasons to fall in love with this cute and comfy classic:
1. Mary Janes rock in RED.
Whether in scarlet, wine, brick or rust, rosy hues are currently dominating fall fashion palettes. (Check out this red-themed slide show from Elle.com for inspiration!) There are plenty of beautiful, flame-toned Mary Janes on the market right now including SoftSpots Posey in crimson and Hush Puppies Gyneth in dark red suede. These whimsical, romantic styles let you live out your ruby slipper fantasies with comfort and sophistication.
2. Mary Janes bring feminine appeal to performance-driven styles
One of the Mary Jane’s greatest assets is the ability make serious comfort, outdoor and occupational shoes look pretty. Check out how MJ’s silhouette softens and sweetens looks like Merrell’s Mimosa Emme or Dansko’s Savanna Mary Jane. And the Alice Mary Jane from Crocs Work manages to look down right dainty thanks to smooth lines and a refined ankle strap.
3. Mary Janes add comfort and functionality to ladylike pumps
The same features that make MJ’s popular for kids (rounded toes, secure ankle straps) make them popular among adult comfortistas as well! Born’s Davina Mary Jane pumps look elegant and tailored, yet provide cushioning and flexibility that’s hard to find in a 3″ heel. Likewise, Naturalizer’s Driven Mary Jane Pump is held in place with a thin, adjustable strap across the instep so you never lose your footing.
4. Mary Janes showcase your socks
If it suits your style and personality, take advantage of the low vamp construction of casual, earthy Mary Janes like Aerosoles Baltic Sea and Clarks Unstructured Un.Cap and express yourself with chic socks and hosiery. Smartwool has amazing striped, polka dotted and fairisle patterns that can’t help but elevate your mood.
5. Mary Janes are a design classic
Trends come and go, but Comfortista believes in a footwear wardrobe built around timeless shoes that suit your lifestyle. That’s why a classic, essential Mary Jane never looks out of place. Looking to build out your collection of modern classics? You can’t go wrong with the Hush Puppies Imperial or Allison Mary Janes from Drew.
Share your Mary Jane stories with Comfortista in the comments section below and shop all the styles at FootSmart.com.
