So who is this whole Mary Jane everyone keeps talking about? I can’t be the only one who noticed the presence of Mary Janes on every runway. But where do they come from and why do we love them so much?
The Origin
The Mary Jane shoe gets its name from a popular character in the early 20th-century comic strip “Buster Brown“. Created by Richard F. Outcault in 1902, Buster Brown was a mischievous young boy, and Mary Jane was his sweet, well-dressed companion. Mary Jane, the character, was often depicted wearing a pair of simple, round-toed shoes with a single strap across the foot—an innocent, classic design. The shoes, which had been around in various forms for some time, became closely associated with the character, and that’s how they became known as Mary Janes.
The “Mary Jane” effect
The Classic “Innocence” Symbol
In the world of cinema and television, Mary Janes are often associated with innocence, youth, and purity. In films like “The Wizard of Oz” (1939), the concept of a classic, innocent look is embodied through Dorothy’s ruby slippers, which share the same basic shape as Mary Janes. Though Dorothy’s shoes are more iconic, they still carry the same spirit of childlike wonder and simplicity found in Mary Janes.
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“The Brady Bunch”
In the 1970s, the popular TV series “The Brady Bunch” featured Mary Janes as the footwear of choice for the show’s young female characters, especially for the eldest daughter, Marcia. The shoes fit perfectly into the wholesome, family-friendly vibe of the series and became synonymous with 1970s girlhood fashion.
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Audrey Hepburn in “Roman Holiday” (1953)
Audrey Hepburn, the epitome of classic style, wore Mary Janes in several films, including “Roman Holiday“. Known for her effortless elegance, Hepburn’s portrayal of the free-spirited princess in Rome helped elevate Mary Janes from children’s footwear to chic adult fashion. Hepburn’s Mary Janes were paired with her signature ballet flats and wide-legged trousers, making them a fashionable option for women of all ages.
Picture: Pinterest.com
What made them so popular?
Mary Janes have become a cultural symbol tied to innocence, youth, and nostalgia. For many, these shoes represent childhood and are often associated with a simpler, more innocent time. As adults, people are drawn to the comforting association with their own childhood or the childhoods of their children. The nostalgic element makes Mary Janes a classic choice that transcends generations.
In the early 20th century, Mary Janes were worn by young girls and became synonymous with the image of the “good girl” or the “proper” child. This cultural association contributed to their widespread popularity, especially among parents who wanted to dress their children in a way that evoked innocence and sweetness.
Pictures: Pinterest.com
Opinion nobody asked for
I will always love Mary Janes. For me they are the synonym of timless and chic no matter the occasion. You can wear it to work, lunch or a party. They have adapted to fit the needs of different generations, evolving from a children’s shoe to a fashion-forward staple for all ages. Whether for their nostalgic connection to childhood, their practicality, or their continued presence in fashion, Mary Janes are a lasting symbol of style that never goes out of fashion.
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