Merceditas or Mary Janes: Are They Really the Same?

You may have called them “Mary Janes” all your life, or perhaps the name sounds more familiar if you’re someone who reads fashion magazines or blogs. But… are they the same thing? Or is there a difference between these iconic shoes?

The truth is, yes, we’re talking about the same type of footwear: a closed shoe, usually flat or with a low heel, with a strap (or several) across the instep and a buckle on the side. A design many of us remember from childhood, but which, over time, has managed to reinvent itself and adapt to much more grown-up, contemporary and—why not say it—irresistible styles. And of course, you can find them in our women’s footwear collection.

Mary Jane shoes have been around for several seasons now—and they’re clearly here to stay. But this year, they’ve made a comeback stronger than ever, establishing themselves as one of the most influential trends. We can say that these charming Mary Janes are synonymous with elegance and versatility. This type of footwear became one of the key symbols of urban fashion thanks to the character of Carrie Bradshaw in “Sex and the City.” Since then, they’ve become a staple in every woman’s wardrobe.

A basic that fits you

The wonderful thing about this type of shoe, whatever you choose to call it, is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with flowy dresses, straight-leg jeans, midi skirts, or even suits.

There’s no set age or occasion for wearing them. In fact, that’s their greatest strength: they have the ability to accompany you in everyday life without stealing the spotlight, while always adding a thoughtful touch to your outfit.

What material are they made of?

One of the reasons Mary Janes remain such a staple in our wardrobes is the vast range of versions available. It’s not just the styles or colours that vary, but also the materials, which allows them to suit any season, occasion or outfit.

The most classic versions are usually made from genuine leather, a material that offers elegance, durability, and a comfort that improves with wear.

They’re also commonly found in suede (in this other post we explain what suede is), ideal for transitional looks. And for those seeking something different with a touch of shine, there are patent leather versions—just like how the original Mary Jane started. During the warmer months, lighter fabric versions such as canvas or cotton are especially popular.

What’s lovely about this shoe is that, from a single basic pattern, you can find countless different interpretations: flat or heeled, with one strap or several, in neutral tones or bolder colours.

In summary, whether you call them Mary Janes or something else, what really matters is how you wear them. They’re the kind of shoe that complements without overpowering, adds style effortlessly, and always finds its place in any wardrobe. And if you don’t yet own a pair, perhaps it’s time to discover with Monpiel why they never go out of fashion.

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