Merceditas or Mary Janes: Are They Really the Same?

You may have called them "Mary Janes" your whole life, or maybe the name “Mary Jane” rings a bell if you’re into reading 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, featuring one (or several) straps across the instep and a buckle on the side. A design many of us remember from childhood, but that has managed to reinvent itself over time and adapt to much more grown-up, modern, 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, becoming one of the most powerful trends. We can safely say that these charming Mary Janes are synonymous with elegance and versatility. This type of footwear became one of the most iconic symbols of urban fashion thanks to Carrie Bradshaw’s character in “Sex and the City.” Since then, they’ve become a must-have in every woman’s closet.

A wardrobe essential that adapts to you

The wonderful thing about this type of shoe, no matter what you call it, is its versatility. It pairs perfectly with flowy dresses, straight-leg jeans, midi skirts, or even suits.

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

What material are they made of?

One of the reasons Mary Janes continue to have such a strong presence in our closets is the wide variety of versions available. It’s not just the styles or colors that change, but also the materials, which allows them to adapt to any season, occasion, or outfit.

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

You’ll also commonly find them in suede (in this other post we explain what suede is), which is perfect for transitional looks. And for those looking for something different with a bit of shine, there are patent leather versions—just like how Mary Janes started out. During the warmer months, lightweight fabrics like canvas or cotton become the favorites.

What’s lovely about this shoe is that, using the same basic design, you can find countless interpretations: flat or heeled, with one strap or multiple, in neutral tones or bolder colors.

In short, 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 a place in any wardrobe. And if you don’t have a pair yet, maybe it’s time to discover with Monpiel why they never go out of style.

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