Mary Janes as the most fashionable shoes of spring

Before we go any further, let’s talk about what these Mary Janes should look like. By definition, it is a low closed shoe with one or more straps across the instep. This category includes not only Mary Janes with a wider heel or platform, which have a retro feel, but also trendy ballerinas that have crossed paths with this trend.

Mary Janes have a surprisingly long history and have been worn since the beginning of the twentieth century. But then they were worn by small children, both girls and boys. Adult women borrowed them during the 1920s and 1930s (they caught on in Europe in the 1940s), but they had to wait for their biggest boom until the 1960s, when they were also worn by modeling icon Twiggy. Since then, Mary Janes, like all other trends, have had their ups and downs, but they have never left the fashion world.

And why are they called by a girl’s name? Mary Jane is a character from the Buster Brown comic strip created in 1902 by Richard F. Outcault. Not only the boy Buster Brown, but also his girlfriend, Mary Jane, had painted shoes with a strap across the instep.

Strappy or instep shoes are a huge hit at the moment, but the truth is that they don’t flatter every foot. If you have a wider or overall stronger foot, you’ll probably put them back in the box after trying them on. The flat ballerina version is the most problematic in this regard, heeled models are better. If you want to wear Mary Janes, but are afraid of straps over the instep, try a few higher models (because the placement of the straps itself plays a big role). In general, less contrasting pairs in beige shades will be more flattering.

If boots with instep straps tempt you, choose from two stylish options and go for it. This year’s fashion number one is especially the low ones, which will add juice to all casual outfits, and if you want to be really in, try the fun mesh model. Just count on the fact that you won’t get away with the slightest flaw in your pedicure with them.

If, on the other hand, you are attracted by the version with a wider heel, which has an undeniable retro vibe, wear it not only with jeans, but especially with skirts. These shoes look great on bare feet, and if you’re brave, you can also add delicately selected socks or knee highs. But be careful when choosing a specific outfit and avoid provocative elements. Feel free to add a short skirt, but offset it with something more voluminous or longer. An oversized jacket would be a good choice.