mary-jane

The strap is the whole design

Without it, the shoe is a flat on the foot and the toes take the load. With it, the heel is held back and the foot sits where it should, which is why this style suits a dressier shoe than a sneaker does without the discomfort that usually comes with it. It also means the strap has to close properly, so look for a real buckle or a proper tab.

Flat or low heel

A flat or low heel keeps the weight distributed and works with the strap to hold the foot in place. A higher heel puts the load on the front of the foot, which the strap then has to fight. These styles keep the heel low and the toe roomy, which is the combination that stays comfortable.

Where to wear them

With a dress, with a skirt, or with trousers where the shape reads clean, they work. For a day on hard floors, the same look in a cushioned style will be kinder. The fastening is also worth thinking about: a buckle is quicker than a hook-and-loop tab when you are getting in and out of a car.

Are Mary Jane shoes comfortable to walk in?

With a flat or low heel and a strap that closes properly, yes, and they are far more comfortable than pointed flats. What makes them uncomfortable is usually a pointed toe box or an instep strap that has to be done up tight.

Do they fit differently from other shoes?

The instep strap means the fit is decided by the strap, not the toe. If the strap has to be fastened at its tightest hole to feel secure, the shoe is too small. Size up and use a middle hole.

What socks go with them?

Whatever the strap allows. Most people wear them with a thin or no-show sock so the foot sits in the middle of the shoe, but a fine ankle sock is fine too as long as it does not bunch at the instep.

If the pain is persistent, getting worse, or you have reduced sensation in your feet, please see a podiatrist or your doctor. Footwear is one part of everyday foot comfort — it is not a treatment.