comfortable mary jane heels

13 BEST PLATFORM MARY JANE HEELS FOR 2024

Timeless styles like Mary Janes never stay out of the spotlight for long, but right now they are truly having a moment. Whether you’re a girl who loves chunky platforms or prefers something soft, sleek, and feminine, there’s a Mary Jane for you. Do you enjoy stacking up heights or prefer to stand comfortably like a ballerina? In 2024, there’s no shortage of ways to rock this trend, so we’ve compiled the 13 most beautiful Mary Janes currently available. Scroll down to read more in our article.

BEST PARTY-READY MARY JANE PUMPS: VINCE CAMUTO GRELENA PLATFORM PUMP

In every shoe collection, there should always be a pair of “break-glass-in-case-of-emergency” pumps. These are the heels you can count on when you suddenly remember a party you RSVP’d to but completely forgot about until receiving a last-minute calendar alert. Vince Camuto’s Grelena Platform Pump in black suede is that reliable pair. As one reviewer aptly describes them, they are comfortable, stylish, and timeless. With a heel height of 5.25″ and a platform of 1.5″, these pumps provide a dramatic height that’s perfect for celebratory occasions. So, when you need a go-to pair of heels that effortlessly combines comfort, style, and versatility, the Grelena Platform Pump is your trusted choice.

BEST DESIGNER MARY JANES: BOTTEGA VENETA LAMBSKIN MARY JANE PLATFORM PUMPS

Presenting the highly-anticipated Bottega Veneta Mary Jane shoes, showcasing their unique and eccentric charm. Under the creative direction of Matthieu Blazy, the fashion house continues to impress with its impeccable craftsmanship, and these lambskin leather shoes, featuring an expertly curved silhouette, are no different. While it’s worth noting that these shoes lean towards the daring side with their lofty 6.25-inch heel, they are perfect for fashion enthusiasts who appreciate futuristic-looking footwear and love making bold statements. For those seeking ultimate attention-grabbing drama, consider pairing these beauties with a voluminous midi dress. Slip into these avant-garde Mary Janes and effortlessly exude an aura of confidence and individuality.

BEST THESE SLINGBACKS: J. CREW LAYLA SLINGBACK MARY JANE HEELS

These slingbacks are the perfect addition to your wardrobe, adding a touch of shine and style. If you typically wear a size 9 or 9.5 in J.Crew shoes, you may find that the 8.5 size is a better fit for you. Even with wide feet, the 8.5 size is not too narrow. The animal print and gold options both fit similarly, running about a half size too big. The comfort level is exceptional, and they are easy to walk in. The slingback design provides extra length for adjustment as the leather stretches over time. With their ideal height for both work and everyday wear, these slingbacks are a versatile choice. You may even find yourself wanting to expand your collection with more colors.

BEST THIS DENIM TAKE: NODALETO BULLA BABIES DENIM PLATFORM MARY JANE PUMPS

I am absolutely smitten with these denim platform pumps and I must have them in my closet as soon as possible. The exaggerated heel is simply perfection, and what’s even better is that this pair is available in three stunning colors and prints: Indigo, Red, Pink, and Silver. Each option offers its own unique charm, allowing for versatile styling and the opportunity to make a bold fashion statement. Whether you prefer a classic blue denim look or want to add a pop of color with vibrant hues, these platform pumps are a must-have addition to any shoe collection. Get ready to turn heads and step up your style game with these fabulous denim beauties.

BEST OLIVIA RODRIGO NAMESAKE: LARROUDE OLIVIA PLATFORM PUMP IN BLACK PATENT LEATHER

Drawing inspiration from the iconic Olivia Rodrigo, this shoe silhouette embodies the essence of Y2K fashion with its retro charm. Designed to provide ample height, these shoes are perfect for making a statement. What’s more, they offer plush memory-foam cushioning for maximum comfort throughout the day. Although the cream pair is currently out of stock, it’s no wonder they were highly sought after, given their undeniable cuteness. Don’t fret—keep an eye out for restocks or explore other equally stylish color options to add a touch of Y2K flair to your wardrobe.

BEST MARY JANE PLATFORM SHOES: CHARLES & KEITH PATENT BLOCK HEEL MARY JANES

These stunning Mary Jane block heels effortlessly capture the essence of old-school glamour with their timeless vintage style. Their classic design evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of a bygone era. These heels are the epitome of elegance, featuring a comfortable block heel that adds both height and stability. Whether paired with a retro-inspired dress or modern separates, these Mary Jane block heels are sure to elevate any outfit, infusing it with a touch of timeless sophistication and charm. Step into these beauties and embrace the allure of vintage glamour.

BEST NAVY MARY JANE SHOES: NEW LOOK NAVY SUEDETTE BLOCK HEEL MARY JANE SHOES

Effortlessly combining simplicity and style, these affordable heeled Mary Janes are the perfect choice for a power move in the office. With their timeless design, they have the ability to instantly elevate and refine any of your favorite outfits. From tailored suits to dresses and skirts, these versatile Mary Janes add a touch of sophistication and professionalism to your overall look. Embrace their transformative power as you step into the office, exuding confidence and making a stylish statement with every stride.

BEST MULTI-STRAP MARY JANE: JEFFREY CAMPBELL DOUBLE STRAP MARY JANE PLATFORM PUMP

When it comes to trying out the latest shoe trends, Jeffrey Campbell is the go-to brand. Among their many Mary Jane styles, these block-heeled pumps stand out. With a 90s-inspired aesthetic and adjustable hook-and-loop double straps, they have become a favorite among fashion enthusiasts. For a stylish twist, consider pairing these pumps with chunky socks in either ivory or inky black, depending on your preferred color. It’s a trendy and fashionable look that will make a statement while keeping you comfortable and on-trend.

BEST PLATFORM MARY JANE: MELISSA PINK MELISSA FARAH OXFORDS

Daspin is a firm believer in embracing the “chunky platform all the way!” trend. She appreciates the extra height and substantial silhouette for its bold impact, which adds an unexpected element to the traditionally unassuming and softly feminine Mary Jane style. According to Daspin, the more you can channel the Harajuku girl aesthetic and occupy a patriarchal space with the shoe, the better. In line with this mindset, GANNI’s leather platform style stands out with its substantial rubber lug sole, ensuring it’s impossible to overlook. It’s a statement-making choice that exudes confidence and edginess while still incorporating the classic Mary Jane design.

MOST COMFORTABLE MARY JANE: MADEWELL THE FREYA PLATFORM LUGSOLE MARY JANE

Introducing The Freya, a beloved and popular style from Madewell known for its retro aesthetics and remarkable comfort that almost feels too good to be true. Crafted from leather sourced from a top-rated tannery by the Leather Working Group, known for promoting eco-conscious practices in the leather industry, this pair combines style with sustainability. One of the standout features is its MWL Cloudlift Lite sole, which provides cushioned padding akin to a pillow, eliminating the need for a break-in period, as attested by a satisfied reviewer. The Freya is a testament to the perfect marriage of style, comfort, and responsible sourcing for those seeking a timeless Mary Jane with a conscience.

BEST MARY JANE HEELS: VALENTINO GARAVANI TAN-GO PATENT-LEATHER PLATFORM PUMP

For those who want to embrace the bold hot pink trend of 2022 and are ready to make a statement, the Valentino Garavani Tan-Go Pump is the perfect starting point. These Mary Jane heels feature a highly-saturated color that has been spotted on numerous It girls, including Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Dua Lipa, and Florence Pugh. Now, it’s your turn to shine in them! With a towering 6.1-inch heel and a 2.2-inch platform, these shoes will elevate you to new heights. However, it’s important to ensure you are comfortable with such a significant elevation before making the purchase. If you’re ready to make a daring and fashionable statement, these Tan-Go Pumps are the ideal choice.

BEST TABI MARY JANES: MAISON MARGIELA TABI MARY JANES

According to Daspin, the Mary Jane shoe trend is heavily influenced by Maison Margiela’s Tabi shoes. While the Tabi style has been an icon for Maison Margiela for many years, the addition of the Mary Jane touch has become increasingly popular, seen not only at New York Fashion Week but also on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The fusion of these two distinctive elements, namely Maison Margiela’s iconic hoof toe and the classic Mary Jane strap, has captured the attention of seasoned fashion enthusiasts as well as those who are simply curious about fashion. This combination of unique details has created a captivating and trendsetting style that appeals to a wide range of fashion-conscious individuals.

THE MARY JANES FOR MAXIMALISTS: FREE PEOPLE PEPPER PLATFORM HEELS

Many people take great pride in my dazzling collection of shimmering fashion pieces, but there’s one item that’s still missing: the high-shine Mary Jane Pumps from Free People. These pumps are the epitome of glamour, and their chunky block heel provides a level of comfort that surpasses traditional narrow stilettos—a major advantage for someone like me who prioritizes comfort whenever possible. we can’t wait to showcase these party-ready pumps at my friend’s upcoming birthday celebration. We plan to pair them with my favorite sheer party dress and complement the look with silver accessories, creating a stunning ensemble that will surely turn heads and make me feel like the belle of the ball.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the year 2024 brings forth a stunning array of platform Mary Jane heels that capture the essence of style, comfort, and individuality. From classic designs to avant-garde creations, these 13 standout options offer something for every fashion enthusiast.

GUIDE TO JAPANESE SUBSTYLES

This is a list of various substyles within fashion, along with their definitions. Keep in mind that styles often overlap and mix, so don’t worry too much about labeling your outfit under one specific substyle. In the end, it’s all still girly kei!

Core Styles

CASUAL GIRLY

As the name implies, this substyle is casual girly kei. The clothing is often oversized and made from comfortable materials, promoting a relaxed vibe. Hairstyles, makeup, and accessories tend to be simple, with braids and twintails commonly seen. This versatile substyle can range from modest to flashy, depending on how you choose to coordinate your outfit.

SWEET GIRLY

The most popular substyle is known for its playful, over-the-top details like lace, ribbons, and plenty of cute prints. Pastel shades dominate, though darker colors can also be found. Decorative elements are more extravagant compared to other styles, and hair accessories like headbands and ribbons woven into ornate hairstyles are common. Accessories and even main pieces often feature bijou detailing, adding a touch of sparkle. When it comes to footwear, platforms are the most popular choice, though tea party shoes and Mary Janes are also frequently seen. During winter, ankle boots become a stylish and practical option.

FRENCH GIRLY

French girly is a substyle that embodies the romanticized image of a young French woman, similar to the popular “French model aesthetic” seen on TikTok. Outfits typically feature lower platforms and a monochromatic palette of black, white, and gray, often mixed with creams and off-whites. Key elements include hairbands, pearl and gold accents, curled hair, berets, tweed, and ruffled sleeves. Many wearers incorporate high-end European fashion designers into their looks through accessories or cosmetics. While French text is common on accessories, it’s rarely found on clothing.

NATURAL GIRLY

At first glance, natural girly may resemble mori fashion, sharing a vintage-inspired aesthetic. It features a soft silhouette with longer skirts and delicate embroidery. Earth tones are popular, along with square-toed shoes, loafers, canvas bags, and minimal or no-makeup looks. Thrifting is a common practice among natural girly wearers, who often prefer pieces made from all-natural fabrics.

OTONA GIRLY

This substyle caters to those looking for a more mature look. Outfits typically feature longer skirts and a toned-down aesthetic with fewer details. While not always the case, colors tend to be muted, creating a more understated appearance compared to other styles. Solid colors, simple floral patterns, and polka dots are common, along with designer handbags and high heels. Newcomers may find it challenging to distinguish otona from general feminine fashion, as the style emphasizes subtle cute details, even in its simplicity!

RETRO GIRLY

This substyle draws inspiration from retro fashions, making you look as though you’ve stepped right out of the past! It often includes outfits resembling old-fashioned school uniforms, with browns, creams, and lots of plaid being key elements. Folded socks, tights, Mary Janes, and hats are also common accessories. Despite the vintage feel, the clothes in this style aren’t actually vintage but are designed to have a retro aesthetic. It’s all about capturing the charm of old-school fashion while keeping it fresh and modern!

DARK GIRLY

Despite its name, this substyle isn’t just girly kei in dark colors—it has a distinctly edgy vibe. Unlike sweet girly, which focuses on cuteness, dark girly embraces a bolder, more rebellious atmosphere. Key elements include heavy makeup, bondage-inspired accessories, and dramatic platform shoes. Religious iconography, like crosses, hexagrams, and rosaries, is commonly featured. Lace socks and fishnet stockings are popular in this style, with ripped fishnets being a common touch to add to the edgy aesthetic. This substyle blends a sense of mystery with a tough, fashion-forward attitude.

Related Styles

HIMEKAJI

Contrary to what some in the West may believe, himekaji is not solely a gyaru substyle! This fashion is defined by floral prints and abundant lace. While short skirts were prevalent during the gyaru boom, longer garments are now popular and can also be styled for girly kei. Pearl details and accessories are just as common as bijou elements, with an emphasis on keeping accessories elegant and cute.

MENHERA

If you’re not familiar with the menhera subculture, it’s a good idea to start with articles by Menheratic. The style often features vent art prints, with a variety of clothing options, including girly pieces. Outfits typically consist of an oversized top worn as a dress, minimal accessories, platform shoes, simple hairstyles, and byojaku makeup. However, it’s important to remember that menhera primarily focuses on mental health awareness, and the true essence of a coord lies in the meaning assigned to it by the wearer!

JERSEY MAID

Since around 2020, Japanese alternative fashion enthusiasts have embraced (often kawaii-fied) tracksuits and a general gopnik attitude, which has influenced various styles, including girly kei. Although the term suggests a maid-like appearance, it applies to all sorts of frilly tracksuit-inspired outfits, regardless of whether they feature an apron. It’s worth noting that searching for “tracksuit” won’t yield the desired results; they’re referred to as “jersey” in this context. This trend is closely tied to the mizuiro aesthetic, popularized by Tenshi Zyoshi.

CHINA KEI

This style has been around for some time but is often unfamiliar by name. China kei is a kawaii-inspired take on traditional Chinese clothing, including tangzhuang, qipao, and hanfu. Accessories like bun covers, hair sticks, and Chinese knots are common. While Japanese brands may occasionally release similar items, it’s much more prevalent among Chinese indie brands on platforms like Taobao.

OtherJAPANESE TRADITIONAL

JAPANESE TRADITIONAL

Many reinterpretations of traditional Japanese clothing exist across various styles, and girly kei is no exception. This aesthetic includes numerous kimono and yukata designs, as well as girly kei brand releases that incorporate iconic collars and sleeves while maintaining the fashion’s essence. Wearers often pair these outfits with girly kei accessories, intricate hair ribbons, and decorative nails to complete the look. Some may even choose non-traditional platform shoes instead of tabi and geta!

GIRLY-INSPIRED COSTUMES

Given the fashion’s popularity, it’s no surprise that there are costumes inspired by the girly kei style. Themes like jiangshi, nurses, maids, and nuns often receive a girly kei twist, especially in Halloween specials of Larme magazine. Essentially, if you can imagine it, you can make it girly! While not always shown, it’s also common to see idol costumes infused with girly elements.

conclusion

While this may not be an exhaustive list, I hope you found it informative! If there’s a specific substyle you feel is missing and deserves attention, don’t hesitate to reach out to me in my inbox!