I'm Over Boots—Here's the Elegant Flat Shoe I'm Wearing with Jeans Instead
We're finally at the tail end of January, and at last, spring is in sight. Whilst the temperature has crept up enough to allow us to swap our knee-high boots for some lighter styles, we're still a way off from strappy sandals season. Luckily, I've found the perfect compromise. Composed of a luxuriously soft, comfortable and cosy fabric, velvet Mary Janes are the light yet snug footwear style that editors and influencers are opting for right now.
In plush and sleek velvet, these chic shoes do all of the hard work for you. With a naturally dressy edge and a neat buckle fastening, velvet Mary Janes have the ability to freshen up a casual jeans outfit or add the finishing touch to a formal look if you don't fancy wearing heels.
Last year saw a meteoric rise in the popularity of Mary Janes as fashion people began to retire their elegant heels in favour of the practical yet chic style. Whilst velvet Mary Janes have been catching our attention as of late, last season brought sleek leather styles, glamorous crystal-embellished flats, and summer-ready mesh styles into the mainstream.
Whilst some brands have spent seasons honing exquisite velvet Mary Janes, others have perfected their styles more recently. From Le Monde Beryl's cult velvet flats to Vibi Venezia's two-tone designs and Reformation's elegant black slippers—not to mention Zara's excellent, affordable option (dee below)—velvet Mary Janes have become a staple footwear style amongst some of our favourite retailers.
On Sofia Richie: Le Monde Beryl Velvet Mary Janes (£395)
Ideal for the winter-to-spring transition, read on to discover our edit of the best velvet Mary Janes to shop now.
SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST VELVET MARY JANES:
Reformation's cult Bethany ballet flat comes in so many fabrics and colours.
In my opinion, red velvet Mary Janes are the perfect party shoes.
These two-tone flats look chic styled with socks or on their own.
Wear with your favourite jeans or style with a white maxi skirt.
The elegant buckle detailing elevates the feel of these classic flats.
Opening Image: @deborabrosa
Next Up: French Women Live in Mary Janes—19 Pairs That Feel the Parisian Part
Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer. Previously freelance commerce writer at British Vogue, Natalie’s experience spans journalistic and styling roles, which have seen her work on shoots for publications such as British Vogue, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK and write for publications including British Vogue and Conde Nast Traveller. With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news and trends for Who What Wear UK, with a particular focus on celebrity style and emerging fashion trends.
-
People Assume These $60 Zara Shoes Are High Designer (and I Let Them)
No gatekeeping here.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
French Women Are Wearing Socks With These Classic Shoe Styles This Spring
Chic as always.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
The Controversial Pant-and-Shoe Combo the Fashion Set Is Wearing Right Now
Outfit inspo from Paris to NYC.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Laura Harrier Wore the Comfy Shoe Trend That's So Much Chicer Than Sneakers
Sofia Richie Grainge and Jasmine Tookes are also fans.
By Eliza Huber
-
Every Chic Person I Know Is Shopping for This Elegant Shoe Trend Right Now
Expect to spot it everywhere this spring.
By Eliza Huber
-
I'm Obsessed With Ballet Flats—21 Incredibly Chic Options on My Radar Right Now
Bet you can't pick just one.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Dakota Johnson Just Wore the Trendy Red Flats Everyone Wants in Their Closet
Including this editor.
By Allyson Payer
-
Here's Every Shoe You Need to Own This Spring
Sponsor Content Created With Sam Edelman
By Raina Mendonça