Mary Jane Shoes
Mary Jane shoes are essentially strapped shoes (or sandals) that have a few distinct features. Firstly, Mary Jane shoes are almost always low heeled although there are some exceptions. Secondly, the toes on the shoe are always rounded and they are always closed. Lastly, Mary Jane shoes feature a strap near the ankle.
Traditional versions were produced exclusively with patent leather which is a type of leather that has a high gloss finish to it. Patent leather shoes can sometimes be confused with cheap leather imitations that can look similar. Today however, they are produced in a wide variety of materials colors and styles. In the past, the age group that was usually seen wearing them are that of the younger generation where it was oftentimes used as formal wear. That is not the case today. The allure of Mary Jane shoes has meant that it is somewhat popular among women from all ages and walks of life.
But where did this shoe get its name from? Strangely enough, Mary Jane shoes were named after a comic character of the same name. In the early 20th century, Buster Brown was one of the most popular comic strips in America. The comic revolved around the mischievous lives of a young boy, Buster Brown, his American Pitbull Terrier and his sister, Mary Jane. And Mary Jane was always wearing the same type of footwear, a black, low heeled shoe that had a rounded front with straps across the instep.
While the comic strip started in 1902, it wasn't until 1904 that the creator of Buster Brown went into partnership with the Brown Shoe Company, which adopted Mary Jane and the Pitbull Terrier as mascots. As such, the term "Mary Jane" was actually trademarked back then. However, such trademarks have not been renewed and shoe companies today are free to use it as they see fit. While classic varieties are still popular, contemporary styling cues have been added to give it a much needed breath of life. As such, the most popular varieties today are platform Mary Janes, which are essentially high heel platforms with a buckle or strap near the ankle area. Modern day varieties have soles that can be as thick as an inch and feature heels as high as five inches. Such heels are usually chunky and are often accompanied with straps and buckles that feature exaggerated styling cues. It was especially popular within a few music and fashion subcultures.
Namely Goth, Punk and Psychobilly music subcultures that were in full swing during the 90's to about year 2000. Such shoes were usually worn with short skirts and dark hosiery/knee high socks to complete the look. Such fashion styles are still prevalent today within the mentioned subcultures. But it has gone on to be a major influence within the Japanese Lolita subculture. This subculture is strongly influenced by Victorian and late-Baroque styling cues. The Lolita fashion world can be further broken down into further subgroups which include Goth Lolita, Classic Lolita and Punk Lolita. While these group may be a bit different stylistically, Mary Jane shoes are always a prominent feature. The most popular varieties within this subculture are Mary Jane pumps, or court shoes depending on which side of the Atlantic you live in. Overall, if you're looking for something simple to wear that is rather "understated" stylistically, traditional Mary Jane Shoes are perfect. For those looking for a bit more spice in their step, try the modern versions (Court, platforms etc).
