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14 Comfortable Mary Jane Shoes That Are a Dream to Walk In
Made of buttery leather to velvet and suede, these flats provide both lasting comfort and style.
It’s no secret that Mary Jane shoes have made a big comeback over the past few seasons. You’d be hard-pressed to find a designer that hasn’t shown a pair walking down the runway or incorporated the classic shoe into their permanent offerings. Even celebrities like Dakota Johnson and Katie Holmes can’t get enough of them. Although nowadays the style is certainly not lacking in availability, finding the most comfortable Mary Jane shoes out there can prove to be something of a task.
As a fashion editor who lives in New York City, I am constantly on the hunt for stylish footwear options that I can actually stand in all day for meetings, events, and my sometimes lengthy commute. As much as I love my sneaker collection, sometimes my day (or evening) calls for something with a little more polish. This is where a pair of comfortable Mary Janes comes in. They’re practical, they’re fashion-forward, and they can be styled with literally everything.
In my opinion, the most comfortable shoes first start with quality materials. Buttery-soft leather, breathable mesh, and luxe velvet are good starting points when narrowing down the best Mary Janes, as these fabrics will mold to and cradle the foot, meaning blisters are no issue. Next, padding and cushioned insoles should be considered, as they are important for arch support. Finally, the strap of a Mary Jane shoe can be a deal breaker, so I check for leather-lined straps to eliminate unnecessary rubbing along the top of the foot, as well.
Below, you will find the 14 most comfortable Mary Jane shoes, most of which I have taken for test-drives myself, whether during New York Fashion Week or during my lengthy travels, where my daily step count is well above 10,000. Keep reading below to shop the edit.
If you are going to splurge on one designer pair, I recommend going for a version from the Row. The Boheme is made from high-quality Italian leather that conforms beautifully to the foot with wear. The sleek, minimalist look styles perfectly with everything from suiting to chunky knits and jeans. The completely adjustable strap ensures the foot will remain secure, and not constantly slipping out, for ease during daily wear.
Sizes: 35–42 EU
Colors: Black, white leather and tan, black suede
Materials: Sheepskin leather upper and lining with leather and rubber sole
What reviewers are saying: “Honestly buying this pair of shoes was a splurge for me however well worth it. The leather is so soft and they fit like a glove not to mention the fact that the uncomplicated shoe style pretty much compliments every outfit and season. Therefore, I recommend that you be kind to your feet and indulge yourself before they sell out.”
If there is one style that is synonymous with the Le Monde Beryl brand, it’s the Mary Jane. The brand’s permanent collection is chock-full of variations on this simple buckled shoe, and the patent version is inspiring me to put together loads of cute outfit ideas for the months ahead. I’d spring for the burgundy colorway to add a little interest to my fall ensembles. The best part is, they have a cushioned insole, so they are actually comfortable, too.
Sizes: 35–42 EU
Colors: Burgundy, black
Materials: Crinkled calfskin patent leather
I’ve been a fan of the Leonie for a few years now. The buttery leather is so soft against the skin, and there is a padded insole for a little extra arch support. This hybrid Mary Jane meets ballerina style can complement both casual looks and something a bit more dressed up. It’s not surprising that it comes in a plethora of colors and fabrics now. I recommend starting with the leather as a year-round option and then advancing to satin or the crochet for seasonal moments.
Sizes: 5–12
Colors: Black, ballet, red, safari, chocolate, and more
Materials: Calfskin leather
What reviewers are saying: “The Leonie flat is the best pair of flats on the market! They are wearable, walkable, and so chic. I am so happy I purchased because these go with everything and I will wear for years to come. They fit exactly like ballet shoes from when I was a kid — super comfortable and no blisters.”
“I’ve been a late adopter of the mesh ballet flat trend for a few reasons, but mainly because flats generally aren’t that comfortable for me. Boy, have I changed my tune after sinking my toes into this pair of Mary Jane from Margaux,” says fashion contributor Laura Lajiness. She’s tested them on errands, while traveling, and during the day and at night, and was impressed by how pillowy soft they felt and how breathable they were on hotter days. “I’m honestly surprised by how dreamy they feel, especially since I have the regular width and usually prefer a wider fit in flats. Surprisingly, I haven’t felt any pressure on my bunions!” she says. “I have them in the adorable pear nappa leather as well, which I can’t wait to transition to fall with hunter greens, khakis, and blues.”
Sizes: 33–45 EU in medium, narrow and wide
Colors: Rose nappa mesh, black mesh
Materials: Mesh upper with leather trim and lining
What reviewers are saying: “After looking at what must have been over 50 pairs of mary janes, these win :) I have tried [them] on around the house but haven't worn out as I want to get a rubber sole added to extend the life of the leather bottoms. Please know they are absolutely stunning and exceptionally comfortable.”
Aeyde’s Mary Janes have quickly become a cult favorite, thanks to the soft, full-leather fabrication and walkable block heel. Fashion editors swear by these, singing the praises of how comfortable they are—even on a long day of pounding the NYC pavement and commuting on the subway. Try styling with little black dresses in the summer and a suede jacket, T-shirt, and jeans come fall.
Sizes: 35–42 EU
Colors: Black
Materials: Lambskin leather with nubuck sole
The Venetian “friulane” slipper is definitely having its moment, and if you don’t have an upcoming trip to Italy planned, these Mary Janes from Vibi Venezia are the perfect pair to satisfy the itch. They’re soft and comfortable, with a rubber sole that makes them acceptable to wear out of the house. I like to pair them with floaty dresses in the summer and a cardigan and cropped jeans in the fall.
Sizes: 35–41 EU
Colors: Blue, red, black, beige
Materials: Velvet, grosgrain trim
All Yuni Buffa shoes are produced by hand in Italy and made from the softest leathers, always including a padded insole for heel and ankle support. The Lola is the brand’s modern interpretation on the classic, with ties that twist neatly to form delicate ribbons across the foot as the strap. The square toe adds another element of stylish appeal to the overall design, which can be worn throughout the seasons in a variety of ways, with everything from poplin dresses to a trench coat and trouser pants.
Sizes: 36–41 EU
Colors: Gold, white
Materials: Nappa lambskin leather, cow leather sole and heel with goat leather lining
Yes, flats can be comfortable, when developed with the right materials. This customer favorite is beloved for its soft suede exterior and cushioned insole, made from Madewell’s signature cloudlike padding. The elastic strap eliminates the need for fiddling with buckles, allowing for an easier pull-on process. And with such an array of rich suede colorways to choose from, the shoe will effortlessly transition your wardrobe from summer to fall.
Sizes: 5–11
Colors: Warm sand, black, shaded olive, soft mahogany, ruby port, and more
Materials: Suede upper with man-made sole
What reviewers are saying: “I love these! They are so comfortable and the color is a perfect nude suede. I know I will get a ton of wear out of these.”
Manolo Blahnik Marijanaflat Mary-Jane Ballet Flats
A night out requires something extra, and Manolo Blahnik makes the best evening flats to elevate any look. The mix of sumptuous satin and dazzling crystal atop the pointed-toe flat is a match made in Mary Jane heaven. Take these for a spin on your next date night with a slipdress, or don them with a black-tie appropriate gown for your next wedding party. The best part is, they are truly comfortable enough to dance the night away in.
Sizes: 35–43 EU
Colors: Black, cream, red
Materials: Satin, crystal with leather outsole
Sandy Liang’s Pointe flat caused quite a stir with the downtown fashion scene when first introduced, selling out almost immediately. Now this Mary Jane has become a closet classic, thanks to a simple design that is easy to wear and style endlessly. The flat heel and luxuriously soft satin fabrication (with a leather lining for comfort) make this shoe totally appropriate to stand in for hours, as well.
Sizes: 35–41 EU
Colors: Ballet, black satin
Materials: Leather and textile upper with leather lining and sole
Add a little oomph into your daily commute with a strappy style from Prada that really purrs. Think of this leopard print as a neutral, and mix with your favorite work dress, a crisp button-down and midi skirt, or a cashmere sweater and jeans on the weekend. These will add that little dose of whimsy to any outfit, while still remaining wearable.
Sizes: 35–41 EU
Colors: Miele calf hair print
Materials: Genuine calf hair upper, leather lining with rubber sole
What reviewers are saying: “These shoes are super cute and very comfortable.”
If your budget is limited, I suggest trying this Franco Sarto Mary Jane. They feel much more luxe than the $115 price tag, and since they are on the affordable spectrum, I can really wear them without feeling like I need to be delicate or take extra care. The comfortable padded insole has been put to the test at Fashion Week, busy days full of meetings, and lengthy commutes aplenty, and friends are always surprised they are not designer.
Sizes: 5–12 US
Colors: Black, silver, beige, blue, brown, and more
Materials: Synthetic upper and lining with rubber sole
What reviewers are saying: “Love the shoes. I don’t often wear flats but these are padded on the inside and so comfortable. They fit true to size and the color is great (bought the blue).”
Bottega Veneta Astaire Mary Jane Flat
Leave it to Bottega Veneta to craft the Mary Jane of a modernist’s dreams. The supple, butterlike leather is a dream to slip into, while the meticulous details you’d expert from this luxury brand are all present. Impeccable design, a fresh oversize buckle, and even an ode to the house’s Intrecciato weave along the backside make this one a true investment buy.
Sizes: 35–41 EU
Colors: String, mud, black
Materials: Leather upper, lining, and sole
Miu Miu Mary Jane Ballerina Flats
If you are a fan of Miu Miu’s ballet flats (who isn’t?) then spring for the brand’s interpretation of the Mary Jane, boasting the addition of a single studded strap. They’re the perfect mix of feminine and tough, with ballet-inspired details that blend beautifully with the punk-influenced grommets. The super-soft genuine leather only sweetens the deal further.
Sizes: 35–41 EU
Colors: Black
Materials: Leather with rubber outsole
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