Those that want to display their fashion nous this season will not only be wearing the dainty flat, but be wearing the hippest version of the admittedly flimsy shoe.
That is the Mary Jane version, with a slim strap than hugs the upper foot, apologies to all those with high-arches.
There is good news if your delicate feet can’t take the lack of support, the Mary Jane in all forms is clamouring for attention. We’re not sure the heel version is any better according to the podiatrists out there, but at least there are options.
While Alaia’s fishnet flat version (above) is undoubtedly the most-wanted designer option, (Sophia Richie is a fan) good luck getting any, they’ve been sold-out for months. There are plenty of similar options though and if you’re after something a little more substantial, Chloe’s chunky T-bar might be more your thing.
We love the elongated toe and patent finish of Bally’s Elis Flats, however they look positively flashy when compared with The Row’s fittingly austere Boheme leather Mary Jane ballet flats.
Mesh for shoes, particularly bedazzled with crystals, is another micro-trend we’re about to see a whole lot more of, but we love the understated nature of Le Monde Beryl’s Leather Trim Mesh Mary Janes. Also hard to find, but too good not to share, are Loeffler Randall’s ‘Leonie’ crystal ballet flats.
For a little bit of height, Chloe embraces school-shoe nostalgia with its chunky Owena leather Mary Jane flats, while Miu Mui gets mixed up with pearl and cap-toe detailing more familiar from another well known label, in nonetheless adorable ladylike cream leather heeled Mary Jane pumps.
Margiela’s Tabi style has always been the ultimate if-you-know-you-know shoe, now there’s an on-trend Tabi Mary Jane style to kill two birds with one stone. Wittner comes through with an affordable mid-height option in its shiny patent Iris Patent Block Heel Mary Janes.
After something a little more jazzy? The satin finish and bow detailing of the Ingrid Ballet Flat from Mi Piaci is the sweet pop of colour a simple outfit needs, while textural velvet like these red ones from London-based label Le Monde Beryl, is where the trend is heading overseas with the northern hemisphere heading into winter.
If the bank account isn’t allowing for a blowout, get thee to Zara. The retailer has a big variety of Mary Janes and ballet flats this season, like these leopard print versions, and these delightful ballet-esque satin flats.
