Mary Janes Buying Guide by Avenue 26

Mary Janes are a timeless style icon.  They are also known as Chinese shoes or kung fu shoes.  They feature a flat footbed with a single strap that is fastened across the foot by a buckle or velcro enclosure. 

The story of the Mary Jane

The original Mary Jane was the classic black shoe which originated in China during the 1920s.  It was first worn as a practical shoe by working-class women and students.  Later its style and grace were adopted by Hollywood celebrities.
Classic Black Mary Janes


Now you can find fashion Mary Janes updated in different colors and prints.  Some of the most popular styles include:

• Leopard Print Mary Janes
  
• Polka Dot Mary Janes
  
• Checkered Mary Janes
  
• Camo Army Green Mary Janes
  
• Cherry Mary Janes  
  
• Geisha Shoes
  
• Rockabilly Mary Janes
  
• Mod Mary Janes
  

Things to look out for when choosing Mary Janes:

1. Padded footbed - Look for a padded footbed for arch support and comfort.  Premium quality mary janes feature a rubber sole with a comfort padded insole.  Beware of "flimsy" soles which are merely made out of thin fabric.  They aren't feet-friendly!
2. Reinforced buckle - Make sure the buckle is at least double-stitched to the shoe for a secure fit.  Single-stitched buckles may become loose or even fall off!
3. Fabric - Mary Janes come in all sorts of fabric now.  Some of the most popular ones are cotton canvas, velvet, and satin.  Cotton canvas is soft and sturdy.  Moreover, it's natural content makes it comfortable and allows your feet to "breathe".  Velvet fabrics add a soft fuzzy finish for a more sophisticated look.  Satin adds a touch of luxury.  
4. Styles - The original Mary Jane came in classic black.  It's a wardrobe essential that goes with almost anything.  Now you can find Mary Janes in many prints and colors.  You can now accessorize with your different outfits!
   

What to wear with them:

Jeans, leggings, skirts, and anything casual and comfortable.

Please visit Avenue 26's eBay store for a wide selection of premium Mary Janes on sale now.