16 Pretty Mary Jane Ballet Flats to Slip On Every Day This Spring

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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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Qlaire Mary Jane Flats

Go ahead, let your shoes match your new patent leather purse.

Sizes: US 6-11

Colors: Black

Material: Leather, rubber

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

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 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

Alexa Flat

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

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

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

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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