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Move over balletcore – there’s a new nostalgic aesthetic capturing hearts, and it’s delightfully playful.
According to Pinterest’s 2025 trend forecast, we’re all about to embrace our inner doll, with searches for ‘doll shoes outfit’ soaring by an astonishing +130%.
This charming renaissance isn’t just about footwear (though Mary Janes are undeniably the star).
Pinterest’s data reveals we’re craving that ‘dolled up’ aesthetic in every aspect of life – from doll-style makeup (+45%) to cutecore room ideas (+40%).
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Even accessories are getting the dainty treatment, with searches for necklace charms up +120% and mini things rising by +80%.
It’s giving Wednesday Addams meets Margot Robbie’s Barbie, with a dash of Simone Rocha’s signature feminine edge.
The Mary Jane shoe sits perfectly at the heart of this trend – a classic silhouette that’s simultaneously sweet and sophisticated, playful yet polished!
Ready to style these charming shoes for the modern era? Here are 24 Mary Jane shoe outfit ideas that strike the perfect balance between whimsical and grown-up gorgeous…
Why Do They Call Them Mary Janes?
The name Mary Janes comes from a popular early 20th-century comic strip called Buster Brown, created by Richard Felton Outcault.
In the strip, Buster had a sweetheart named Mary Jane, who wore the iconic rounded-toe, strap-across-the-foot shoes.
The Brown Shoe Company later used the character to market this particular style of children’s shoe — and the name stuck.
Over the decades, Mary Janes evolved beyond children’s wear and became a beloved, fashion-forward staple for women of all ages.
1. Oversized Blazer + Cow Print Mary Janes
A perfect study in playful contrasts. The oversized lavender blazer and whimsical cow-print Mary Janes bring a fresh, fashion-forward vibe to this otherwise simple ensemble.
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2. Graphic Tee + Jeans + Chunky Mary Janes
This off-duty look gets a cool-girl twist with chunky Mary Janes and slouchy denim. The graphic tee and ruched bag keep things playful and laid-back, perfect for weekend wandering.
3. Striped Tee + Blazer + Red Patent Mary Janes
Proof that Parisian-inspired style is always a win. The red Mary Janes pop against classic stripes and a tailored blazer, making this café look feel equal parts polished and fun.
4. Chunky Knit + Mini Skirt + Socks + Red Mary Janes
Schoolgirl-inspired with a hint of dark academia. Chunky knits and socks temper the boldness of red block heel Mary Janes, creating a cosy, city-ready look that feels equal parts nostalgic and modern.
5. Leather Trench + Cargo Trousers + Black Block Heel Mary Janes
Tough meets feminine. The oversized trench and slouchy cargos are perfectly offset by structured, high-shine Mary Janes—a styling move that feels fresh and unexpected.
6. Green Button-Down + Jeans + Fuchsia Espadrille Mary Janes
Bright and playful with a touch of vintage flair. I love how the vivid green shirt and bold pink espadrille Mary Janes work together without competing.
7. Leather Jacket + Black Mini + White Textured Tights + Black Mary Janes
Retro with a wink. White textured tights and block-heel Mary Janes bring a playful mod twist to an otherwise sleek, black-on-black ensemble—beret included.
8. Tweed Jacket + White Shorts + Two-Tone Mary Janes
Chanel-adjacent and effortlessly chic. The crisp shorts, tweed jacket, and black-and-white Mary Janes serve serious garden party (or stylish brunch) energy.
9. All-Black Look + Red Block Heel Mary Janes
Minimalist, but with impact. The structured black mini and leather trench let the glossy red Mary Janes steal the scene—ideal for a night out or fashion event.
10. Babydoll Dress + Platform Mary Janes + Knee Socks
A playful nod to schoolgirl style with a modern twist. The chartreuse mini and platform Mary Janes, paired with knee socks, make this outfit feel fun, a little irreverent, and completely cool.
11. Gingham Dress + Red Mary Janes + Matching Bag
Summer sweetness, personified. The gingham dress and red Mary Janes are a match made for picnics and garden parties—made even better with that perfectly coordinated bag.
12. Leather Jacket + Tailored Trousers + Silver Mary Janes
A masterclass in elevated casual. The leather jacket and tailored trousers feel sophisticated, while the silver Mary Janes add just the right amount of shine to tie it all together.
13. Black Dress + Red Tights + Classic Mary Janes
A lesson in playful layering. The pop of red tights and glossy Mary Janes add a festive twist to an otherwise monochrome winter look—proving that cold-weather dressing can still be fun.
14. Soft Blue Knit + Jeans + Velvet Mary Janes
Understated and charming. The tonal blue palette here feels effortless, with velvet Mary Janes adding a subtle dose of texture and polish.
15. Blazer + Tank + Denim Maxi Skirt + Black Mary Janes
An easy balance of modern and classic. The structured blazer and sleek black Mary Janes ground the casual cool of the denim maxi.
16. Ruffled Blouse + Blazer + Jeans + Red Block Heel Mary Janes
A perfectly Parisian mix. The dramatic ruffled blouse and vintage-inspired red Mary Janes bring a romantic flourish to this polished denim look.
17. Grey Blazer + White Trousers + Polka Dot Mary Janes
Unexpected fun. Polka dot Mary Janes inject whimsy into this tailored, laid-back brunch outfit.
18. Gingham Crop Top + Leather Mini Skirt + White Socks + Black Mary Janes
Retro cool-girl. Fishnets, socks, and glossy Mary Janes bring flirty vintage vibes to this playful look.
19. White Button-Down + Black Midi Skirt + White Socks + Black Mary Janes
A polished, preppy combo—white socks and glossy Mary Janes add charm to this classic black-and-white ensemble.
20. Patterned Jacket + Lilac Jumper + Beige Trousers + Blue Mary Janes
Play with colour and texture—powder blue Mary Janes brighten this chic layered outfit of neutrals and soft pastels.
21. Cream Tee + Red Jumper + Blue Jeans + Burgundy Mary Janes
Everyday French chic. Burgundy Mary Janes and matching accents elevate simple jeans and a tee for an effortlessly cool look.
22. Sleeveless Top + Tie + Black Shorts + Chunky Black Mary Janes
School-girl style goes street. A quirky tie and tailored shorts pair perfectly with chunky Mary Janes for a playful twist.
23. White Blouse + Olive Shift Dress + Brown Mary Janes
Modern and feminine. Delicate details and sleek Mary Janes add polish to this timeless layered look.
24. Black Jacket + Red Textured Skirt + Black Flats
Romantic meets edgy. A bold red skirt pops against the classic black palette and sleek Mary Jane flats.
