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The shoe that regained popularity under the “balletcore” aesthetic has now become this year’s most essential footwear staple for any and every occasion. Designers have since reimagined the humble ballet flat in countless silhouettes, textiles, and colors for year-round style and ease (and yes, that includes options with arch support). But what exactly is behind the sudden resurgence of interest in Mary Jane ballet flats? “It stems from an element of comfort,” says Isabel Zadlo, senior shoe buyer at Shoes ‘N’ More, reflecting on the return to the workforce following the pandemic. “Putting on a flat as opposed to a heel was a nice transition.”
The Mary Jane ballet flat, distinguished by its instep strap, drew its name from a Buster Brown comic strip character in the early 20th century. Although the shoe was originally associated with a younger demographic, we can attribute the recent success of the silhouette to its versatility and sophisticated interpretations from major labels like Alaia, Miu Miu, and Chanel. “There’s something about [Mary Janes] that makes you feel chic, fashionable, and on-trend rather than your typical ballet flat. There’s something really sweet about it,” Zadlo adds.
The Mesh Pair
Alaïa Mesh Mary Jane Ballerina Flats
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The Crochet Pair
Miu Miu Cotton Crochet Ballet Flats
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The Platform Pair
Loeffler Randall Marlowe Natural Mary Jane Espadrille
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The Patent Pair
Aquatalia Qlaire Mary Jane Flats
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The Strappy Pair
Jeffrey Campbell Jackie Buckle Ballet Flats
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Whether you were initially drawn in by the ballet-inspired fashion trend, viral “coquette” looks, or how designers styled the shoe trend on the runway, the appeal of the Mary Jane ballet flat is undeniable. One thing Zadlo makes clear: These ballet flats are here to stay. “Whether you’re working from home or going to the office, there is this sense that people want to be comfortable,” she shares. “With the ballet flat, especially the Mary Jane, you can look fashionable and feel great at the same time.” Need we say more? Shop the most stylish Mary Jane ballet flats, below.
The Expert Pick
Sam Edelman Michaela Mary Jane Flat
The Expert Pick
Sam Edelman Michaela Mary Jane Flat
Recommended by Zadlo herself, the Michaela flat by Sam Edelman emerges as the must-have style for buyers and fashion enthusiasts alike! The soft, supple leather paired with a squared-off toe transforms the traditional ballet flat into a more refined and elevated option.
Sizes: US 5-14
Colors: 13 options
Material: Leather
The Mesh Pair
Alaïa Mesh Mary Jane Ballerina Flats
The Mesh Pair
Alaïa Mesh Mary Jane Ballerina Flats
Wish you embraced the mesh flat trend last summer? Not to worry! This specific microtrend survived the winter and is ready for another season of sunny strolls. Alaia’s mesh Mary Jane ballet flats are the epitome of boho-chic footwear, so grab a pair while you can.
Sizes: US 5-12
Colors: Black, Nude Clair, Orange Sangui
Material: Mesh, leather, rubber
The Must-Have Pair
Alohas Rosalind Ballet Flats
Buckle up, buttercup! This baby yellow pair is crafted from buttery soft stretch leather and adorned with a charming coquette-esque drawstring bow detail. Fancy some toast with that?
Sizes: EU 35-42
Colors: 7 options
Material: Mestizo leather
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The Peach Fuzz Pair
Le Monde Beryl Mary Jane
The Peach Fuzz Pair
Le Monde Beryl Mary Jane
Three months into 2024 and still haven’t incorporated Pantone’s color of the year, Peach Fuzz, into your wardrobe? Look no further! Not only is this hue a versatile neutral that’s incredibly wearable, especially in the early months of spring, but it also evokes a sense of nurturing and growth.
Sizes: EU 36-42
Colors: Black, Silver, Green, Red, Blush
Material: Mesh, calf leather
The Sling-Back Pair
Yishaweiqi Wide Welt Buckle Ballet Flats
From fashion month, it’s clear: Olive green is trending. These flats blend edge with versatility and elegance. With a pointed toe and slingback detail, they reinvent the classic Mary Jane ballet flat while keeping comfort at the forefront.
Sizes: US 4-12
Colors: 14 options
Material: Synthetic, rubber
The Crochet Pair
Miu Miu Cotton Crochet Ballet Flats
The Crochet Pair
Miu Miu Cotton Crochet Ballet Flats
Experimenting with different textures can be a great way to embrace a classic style like this one. The silhouette and color-blocked toe capture the essence of the ballet flat’s origins while the crochet texture and Miu Miu logo add a fresh, luxurious touch.
Sizes: US 6-12
Colors: Avorio Nero
Material: Textile, rubber
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The Velvet Pair
Mar Soreli Mary Jane
This Mar Soreli Mary Jane style reflects the brand’s ethos with uppers made from repurposed velvet and silk and soles from recycled bicycle tires, showcasing a commitment to sustainable craftsmanship and style.
Sizes: US 5-12
Colors: Blu, Ocra, Rosso, Verde
Material: Velvet, rubber
The Platform Pair
Loeffler Randall Marlowe Natural Mary Jane Espadrille
The Platform Pair
Loeffler Randall Marlowe Natural Mary Jane Espadrille
From traipsing bustling streets to leisurely walks along the boardwalk, these are the perfect companions for your next vacation (or staycation). And what could be more enticing than a ballet flat that offers a bit of lift? Loeffler Randall’s ballet flats-turned-espadrilles offer a charming summer rendition of the beloved Mary Jane style!
Sizes: US 5-12
Colors: Natural, Black
Material: Natural raffia, Bovine leather
The Patent Pair
Aquatalia Qlaire Mary Jane Flats
The Patent Pair
Aquatalia Qlaire Mary Jane Flats
Go ahead, let your shoes match your new patent leather purse.
Sizes: US 6-11
Colors: Black
Material: Leather, rubber
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The Strappy Pair
Jeffrey Campbell Jackie Buckle Ballet Flats
The Strappy Pair
Jeffrey Campbell Jackie Buckle Ballet Flats
Punk-rock meets balletcore in these strappy flats, made in smooth satin with buckles and grommets for a tough, yet elegant, touch.
Sizes: US 6-11
Colors: Natural, Black, Olive
Material: Textile, leather, synthetic
The Embellished Pair
Tony Bianco Miami Nappa Flats
The Embellished Pair
Tony Bianco Miami Nappa Flats
When it comes to rhinestones, my motto is “The more, the merrier.”
Sizes: US 5-10
Colors: White, Black
Material: Leather
The Sustainable Pair
Rothy’s The Square Mary Jane
The Sustainable Pair
Rothy’s The Square Mary Jane
Rock the color red while you go green with Rothy’s ballet flats, made from nine recycled plastic bottles. Machine washable and seamlessly constructed for comfort, they feature flexible straps and a chic square toe for timeless sophistication.
Sizes: US 5-13
Colors: 8 options
Material: Rothy’s signature thread spun from plastic bottles
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When one instep strap just won’t cut it, why not go with four? Step into maximum support and style in this patent leather pair from Larroude, reminiscent of the gladiator sandal in all the best ways.
Sizes: US 5-11
Colors: Black, Ivory, Silver
Material: 100% Patent Leather
The Two-Tone Pair
Vibi Venezia Cotton Canvas Mary Jane Flats
The Two-Tone Pair
Vibi Venezia Cotton Canvas Mary Jane Flats
Picture perfect and picnic-ready in the freshest color combination for spring! Each pair from Vibi Venezia is meticulously handcrafted by local shoemakers using cotton canvas while also prioritizing comfort and durability.
Sizes: US 5-12
Colors: Blue, Red
Material: 100% cotton
The Studded Pair
Maje Studded Leather Ballerina Shoes
The Studded Pair
Maje Studded Leather Ballerina Shoes
Can’t decide which studs you want on your toes? Why not try them all? This Maje pair is guaranteed to turn heads with its eclectic silver-tone stud collection and charming bow detailing.
Sizes: US 6-11
Colors: Black
Material: Calf leather
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The Metallic Pair
VOLEECE Bow Tie Slip On Mary Jane Flats
The Metallic Pair
VOLEECE Bow Tie Slip On Mary Jane Flats
By now, you most certainly own a pair of metallic sneakers (and if you don’t, what are you waiting for?), but why stop there? These metallic ballet flats from Amazon, with their effortless bow tie closure, add a touch of glamour to your everyday wardrobe.
Sizes: US 5-12
Colors: 8 options
Material: Faux leather, rubber
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Meet the Experts
Isabel Zadlo is the senior shoe buyer at Shoes ‘N’ More. Zadlo forecasts and analyzes emerging trends in footwear well in advance of each season. Her experience in buying, merchandising, and product development, coupled with regular visits to European markets enables Zadlo to anticipate consumer trends and carefully curate a product selection in stores aimed at driving sales.
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