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15 Must-See Designer Mary Janes, Ranked from Flop to Fab

15 Must-See Designer Mary Janes, Ranked from Flop to Fab

Mary Janes are having a major moment, but not all are created equal.

Some designer pairs serve up pure elegance, while others leave us questioning why they exist. So, we’re ranking 15 designer Mary Janes from total flops to absolute must-haves.

Buckle up (literally) as we go from worst to best—because your shoes should be as fabulous as you are.

15. Larroudé Blair Mary Jane Flat

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Some shoes whisper luxury; these barely manage a mumble. The Larroudé Blair Mary Jane is a plain, no-frills flat that feels more mall brand than designer splurge.

Sure, it’s comfortable, but at this price, we expect a little more personality. If you’re looking for a shoe to blend into the background, this is it—but why would you want that?

14. ViBi Venezia Velvet Mary Jane Flats

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Velvet flats? Adorable. A range of fun colors? Even better. But somehow, ViBi Venezia’s take on Mary Janes still manages to feel underwhelming. They’re great for lounging around or grabbing a quick coffee, but they lack that polished, put-together feel we want from a high-end shoe.

13. Loeffler Randall Ginger Mary Jane Ballerina Flats

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We get it—gingham is fun. But the all-over gingham pattern on these flats teeters dangerously close to toddler-chic. They’re certainly sweet, but they don’t exactly scream sophistication. Unless you’re actively trying to channel your inner child, you might want to leave these in the dress-up box.

12. Sézane Georgia High Mary Janes

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A block heel and rounded toe can be cute when done right, but something about these feels a little off. The shape leans into vintage territory, but not in the cool, retro way—more in the “I work as an old-timey schoolteacher” way.

They’re a solid pick if you love a nostalgic vibe, but there are more flattering options out there. If Mary Janes had a middle child, this would be it.

11. Stuart Weitzman Emilia Mary Jane Flat

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These are perfectly fine, which is both a compliment and an insult. They’re sleek, well-made, and easy to style, but they don’t make much of a statement.

Think of them as the shoe equivalent of a plain white t-shirt—essential, yes, but not exactly thrilling. If you’re into minimalism, they’ll do the job, but don’t expect them to turn heads.

10. Gabriela Hearst Hawes T-Strap Heel

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There’s something charming about a good T-strap shoe, but this one leans just a little too mature. The design is elegant but doesn’t quite hit that sweet spot between classic and modern.

It’s a great option for someone who loves a vintage look, but for the fashion-forward crowd, it might feel a little too Downton Abbey. Lovely? Yes. Groundbreaking? Not quite.

9. Le Monde Beryl Suede Mary Jane Ballet Flats

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These velvet flats exude a soft luxury that’s undeniably chic, but they play it a little too safe. The mustard color is a standout, but the overall design doesn’t push the boundaries enough to land higher on the list.

They’re great for the “quiet luxury” aesthetic, but if you’re looking for a shoe with attitude, this isn’t it. Beautiful, but a little too whispery for the top ranks.

8. Roger Vivier Très Vivier Babies Patent Leather Flats

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Roger Vivier knows how to do an elegant shoe, and these are no exception. The glossy patent leather and oversized buckle make them feel regal, like something straight out of The Princess Diaries.

However, the very polished look might feel a little too stiff for some modern wardrobes. They’re a solid choice if you want to feel like royalty, but they won’t work for every outfit.

7. Versace Ribbon Open Satin Ballerinas

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Mary Janes, but make them extra. The oversized ribbon strap on these satin flats is pure drama, and we’re here for it. They’re bold, playful, and perfect for someone who wants their shoes to be the main event.

Just be careful—these don’t pair well with an already busy outfit unless you’re committed to a full Versace-level maximalist moment.

6. Alaïa Studded Leather Mary Jane Flats

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Alaïa took the sweet, innocent Mary Jane and gave it a punk-rock makeover. The studded detailing adds just the right amount of edge while keeping the silhouette sleek and wearable. These flats are perfect for anyone who wants a little bite with their ballet-inspired footwear. A total power move in shoe form.

5. The Row Ava Mary Jane Flats

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The Row is all about understated elegance, and these flats deliver just that. The clean, minimal design lets the quality do the talking, making them the perfect shoe for fashion insiders who get it.

They won’t scream for attention, but they will quietly exude wealth and sophistication. If quiet luxury is your thing, these are a top-tier choice.


4. Chanel Cap-Toe Mary Janes

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You don’t just wear Chanel—you inherit it. These cap-toe Mary Janes are the epitome of timeless elegance, giving off serious old money vibes. The combination of black-and-white detailing and a subtle heel makes them endlessly versatile. If you want a pair of shoes that will never go out of style, this is it.

3. Prada Satin Mary Jane Ballerinas

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Prada knows how to make a shoe that feels both classic and modern, and these Mary Janes are proof. The satin finish gives them an elevated touch, making them perfect for dressing up or down. They strike the perfect balance between elegant and playful, making them a wardrobe essential. If effortless chic had a shoe form, it would be this.

2. Miu Miu Block Heel Mary Jane

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Miu Miu took the traditional Mary Jane and gave it a high-fashion upgrade with a chunky heel. The result? A shoe that’s equal parts vintage and cool girl energy. Whether paired with a mini skirt or baggy jeans, they always look stylish and intentional. This is the kind of shoe that makes any outfit feel fashion.

1. Manolo Blahnik Campari Mary Jane

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There’s a reason these have been an icon for decades. The pointed toe, the delicate strap, the perfect heel height—Manolo Blahnik mastered the Mary Jane, and everyone else is just trying. These aren’t just shoes; they’re a legacy. If you want to own the best pair of Mary Janes, look no further.