Is the Mary Jane the ballet pump update that we didn’t know we needed?

The classic ballet pump has always been a wardrobe staple, whether you dress them up with a floaty boho dress or dress them down with your favourite jeans. As much as we may love ballet pumps, there’s a new contender stepping into the spotlight: The Mary Jane.

At first, the mention of Mary Janes may dig up memories of school uniforms, but don’t worry, long gone are the days of chunky black pumps. They’ve since been reimagined, and now are the shoes of the season. Think sleek and feminine with a touch of vintage charm.

The Mary Jane has everything we love about the classic ballet flat – style, comfort and Parisian flair. The main difference? A Mary Jane has a strap, which not only looks chic but also offers better support and a more secure fit. Ballet flats are undoubtedly effortless (and ideal for stashing in your handbag), but we all know the pain of them slipping off our feet.

If you love the elegance of a ballet flat, but you’re in search of something more sensible, you’ll want to opt for a Mary Jane. Comfortable enough for running errands, yet polished enough for the evening, the Mary Jane is a true multi-tasker, taking you seamlessly from day to night.

From H&M’s sophisticated braided leather to Sézane’s playful leopard print flats, there’s a pair to suit every taste and budget. To help guide you, we’ve rounded up the 10 best Mary Janes that you can shop now.