There's nothing plain about Mary Janes. This storied shoe style—traditionally a flat black shoe with a single strap across the center of the foot—has been popular in America since the 1900s. After a century and a half of being styled with everything from flapper dresses to dungarees, this classic shoe is still captivating fashion obsessives everywhere, including the always elegant Amal Clooney.
Spotted on New York City's Upper East Side over the weekend, Clooney stepped out of her hotel wearing an older but no-less-lovely pair of patent-leather double-strap Mary Jane pumps by Prada. Paired with sheer black tights, a contrasting white turtleneck minidress, a white-speckled black coat, and Dior's Bar bag, the civil rights lawyer's outfit was at once timeless and totally 2023. And while the dressy daytime look works perfectly with her chunky-heeled shoes, we could just as easily see Clooney pairing the pumps with a structured suit or her favorite pair of jeans.
Given the versatility of Mary Janes, we were excited to see what today's interpretations of the iconic shoe look like. Ahead, we've found 10 pairs of high-heel Mary Janes with a variety of straps, heels, and finishes. We have a feeling you'll wear them for ages.
On Amal Clooney: Prada shoes
While it doesn't have the standout speckles like Amal's, the military elements like the statement buttons and flap pockets give a similar effect.
This dress would get a ton of use.
The navy tights feel a step fresher than black.
Super classic. We bet Amal would approve.
Shop Mary Jane Heels
We love how these shiny two-straps are styled with lavender socks.
Zara has never failed me.
So French.
If a chunkier sole and heel are more your thing, there are plenty of platform styles out there to peruse.
Triple straps give off a vintage vibe.
Like a chunky heel but don't want the platform? Go for Madewell's black leather two-strap design.
These Mango shoes look 100% designer.
J.Crew knows a thing or two about designing timeless-looking shoes.
We're in it for the embellished buckle.
It's giving Olivia Rodrigo vibes.
If a stiletto heel is a must, then Manolo Blahnik is the way to go, as the designer makes the perfect fit.
Classic with a capital C.
And of course, another perfect pair of Mary Janes by Prada.
Are you team split toe?
These look quite comfortable.
Of course the NYC-based It brand does a great version.
A Parisian classic.
A wedge option for extra comfort.
Yet another classic French brand.
The higher the platform, the closer to heaven!
Next, The Pretty Shoe Trend Florence Pugh Wore to a Party Is About to Be Everywhere
Opening Image: Shutterstock
-
Sorry, Flats—These Anti-Trend Heels Are Every French Woman's Quiet Go-To for a Night Out in ParisA classic choice.
-
Black Heels Are Fine, But in France, Everyone Knows This Shoe Color Looks Better With White DressesSpotted at Versailles.
-
Amal Clooney Just Brought Back the Shoe Trend That's Been Losing Relevance for YearsIs it due for a resurgence?
-
These Are the Classy, Expensive-Looking Shoes Cool Girls in NYC Are Wearing With Shorts This SummerThey make your outfit look more expensive.
-
If You're Over Kitten Heels, This French-Girl Heel Trend Is What Stylish People Are Wearing InsteadSpotted on Charlize Theron.
-
If I See You Swap Your Classic Black Pumps for This Specific Color Trend, I'll Know You Have Expensive TasteIt works for the summer and the fall.
-
This Anti-Trend Shoe Is What People With Chic Style Are Wearing With Minidresses This SummerIt's a classic!
-
This Uncommon Shoe Color Looks So Fresh With All-White OutfitsMandy Moore gets it.
