Patterned Mary Janes have brought out our inner quirky prep school student in the absolute best way, and we’re completely obsessed with how they add instant personality to any outfit while still maintaining that scholarly, sophisticated vibe we love. There’s something so perfectly nostalgic about the Mary Jane silhouette—it’s got that whole intellectual, bookish charm that makes you feel smarter just wearing them—but when you add bold patterns into the mix, they become these incredible statement pieces that are both unexpected and completely charming. We’ve been pairing them with everything from midi skirts and cardigans for that whole dark academia aesthetic to casual jeans and blouses when we want to add some whimsical sophistication to everyday looks. The ankle strap is incredibly flattering because it creates this beautiful line across your foot while keeping the shoe secure, and the patterns ensure you never look boring or forgettable. We love how they work with both professional and casual outfits—they can make a simple work dress look interesting and personal, or add unexpected polish to weekend casual looks. The patterns range from subtle geometric designs to bold florals to abstract art-inspired motifs, so there’s literally something for every personality and mood. They’re surprisingly comfortable for shoes that look so polished and put-together, and the closed-toe design makes them perfect for transitional weather when you want something more substantial than sandals but more interesting than basic flats. We’ve discovered they’re amazing for creating that perfect balance of professional and playful that’s so hard to achieve with other shoe styles.
