How to Style Outfits With Mary Jane Shoes

Mary Jane shoes are traditionally black, patent leather, low-heeled shoes featuring a thin strap that buckles across the top of your foot. Modern designers have adapted the minimalist details of traditional flat Mary Janes to work for different styles of footwear, including high heels, platforms, pumps, and more. A classic pair of Mary Janes transitions perfectly from the office to casual environments, similar to ballet flats.

Anyone can wear this classic and timeless shoe style to suit various outfits. Review this list of outfit ideas and styling tips for your Mary Janes.

1. 1. Add a fun pair of socks. Don a pair of classic Mary Janes with a skirt or shorts, which gives you the perfect opportunity to layer them over statement socks or patterned tights. Instead of the expected white socks, accessorize your favorite Mary Jane outfit with some embroidered ankle socks, knee-highs, or textured tights.
2. 2. Craft a professional look. Sensible Mary Janes make great dress shoes for various looks, including professional wear. Pair your Mary Jane heels with a pencil skirt, tights, a button-down, and an oversized blazer for office-appropriate attire that is still on-trend.
3. 3. Switch up the style. For a trend-forward twist on the classic, incorporate a pair of platform Mary Janes into any of your favorite outfit ideas. Style the shoes with straight-leg jeans or a maxi skirt for some extra height.
4. 4. Keep it casual. Swap out the usual white sneakers for Mary Janes in your favorite casual outfit. Pair the shoes with jean shorts, a T-shirt, and a small shoulder bag for a laid-back look. For a chic day of errands and meetings, wear suede Mary Janes with skinny jeans, white socks, and a trench coat for a relaxed and stylish look.
5. 5. Add a mini skirt. Pair classic black Mary Janes with a pleated skirt and a fitted blazer to channel a retro prep-school student look. Choose a pair with a block heel to add some height to this playful look.
6. 6. Create a formal look. If you’re looking for a comfortable heel for formal events, from weddings to work functions, opt for a pair of chunky Mary Jane pumps with a thicker ankle strap.
7. 7. Make it grunge. Pair your Mary Janes with fishnets and baggy jeans to channel the grunge era. Add a plaid flannel, faux leather jacket, and beanie to finish the look.

Get a MasterClass Annual Membership and let Tan France be your very own style maestro. Queer Eye’s fashion guru spills everything he knows about building a capsule collection, finding a signature look, understanding proportions, and more (including why it’s important to wear underwear to bed)—all in a soothing British accent, no less.