I’ve always been a believer in the power of accessories to make an outfit look and feel complete. And that goes double for shoes.
Not only are the best shoes functional, but they’re “front and center” in giving your look a finishing touch. Today I’m featuring some outfit ideas to elevate your looks.
1. Black Polka Dot Dress and Mary Jane Pumps

You seriously can’t go wrong with a classic polka dot dress, and it happens to be the perfect partner for Mary Janes.
The black and white pattern is eternally chic, and the mini silhouette with spaghetti straps gives off such a fun, retro feel.
I’d finish the look with some black patent Mary Jane block heels and a matching black headband for an outfit that feels totally polished. This one is a winner for both daytime and evening plans.
2. Red Cardigan, Camisole, Leopard Pants and Red Mary Janes

If you want to have a little fun with prints, this look is such a home run. Start by pairing a lacy white camisole with some bold leopard print pants. To tie it all together, layer on a bright cherry red cardigan.
The equally fiery red Mary Janes ground the whole outfit perfectly. I love adding some white frilly ankle socks to keep the vibe feeling playful. This is such a great day-to-night look that definitely makes a statement!
3. Black Oversized Cardigan and Gingham Skirt with Black Mary Janes

For a perfect back-to-school or even an office-appropriate vibe, try layering an oversized black cardigan over a gingham print mini skirt.
The mix of textures and patterns feels so chic, and the long cardigan is great for balancing the shorter hemline of the skirt.
I’d finish it off with some black patent leather Mary Janes and rectangular sunglasses for that polished, preppy feel. This outfit is also a great go-to for running weekend errands!
4. Beige Trench Coat, White Sweater, Jeans and Black Patent Mary Janes

This is the dream outfit for that in-between weather when you want to be comfortable but still look stylish. A beige trench coat gives a cozy yet refined feel over a simple white sweater and light wash skinny jeans.
The secret to making any outfit look instantly more polished? Finishing it off with a pair of black patent leather Mary Janes. It’s a total game-changer.
5. Black Leather Jacket, White Top and Light Wash Skirt with Black Mary Janes

Want to give an edgy grunge look a little dose of feminine style? The Mary Jane is your answer! Toughen up a crisp white collared shirt and a light wash denim mini skirt with a black leather moto jacket.
Then, you can contrast that rock n’ roll energy with some proper black Mary Janes worn over bright white knee-high socks. It’s a fun, flirty twist on a 90s throwback aesthetic.
6. Black Turtleneck and Houndstooth Set with Red Mary Janes

First up, we have this incredible 60s-inspired look that’s perfect for transitional weather. The graphic black and white houndstooth print is so bold, while the black turtleneck, cropped jacket, and pleated mini skirt create such a cool retro silhouette.
I love that sheer black tights add some coverage, and the bright pop from the red Mary Jane pumps just pulls the whole outfit together. It’s an easy way to bring the trend into your fall wardrobe.
7. Light Blue Gingham Dress and Black Mary Janes

You can truly never go wrong pairing your Mary Janes with a sweet, feminine dress. This light blue gingham print mini dress is so adorable with its trendy puff sleeves and smocked square neckline.
The black patent Mary Janes are a great complement to the retro shape, and some frilly white socks add such a darling little accent. This is such a charming look for a date or a picnic in the spring.
8. Black Ruffled Crop Top and Beige Maxi Skirt with Black Mary Janes

If you really want your Mary Janes to be the star with a skirt or dress combo, stick to neutral colors up top so the shoes can pop.
Here, a black ruffled crop top is a perfect match for a beige maxi skirt without stealing the spotlight.
That long, flowy skirt provides the ideal counterbalance to let the chunky Mary Jane block heels really show off.
9. Striped Sweater, White Shirt and Blue Jeans with Red Mary Janes

Here’s another great way to make your Mary Janes the main event: style them with some basic closet staples in classic colors.
A white button-up shirt and dark rinse straight-leg jeans are such essential pieces, and a navy and white striped sweater adds that preppy personality when you drape it over your shoulders.
Just let a brightly colored pair of red Mary Janes be the star of this simple, everyday look.
10. Gray Off-Shoulder Sweater and Charcoal Skirt with Red Mary Janes

Next up is an effortlessly chic look that’s perfect for those laid-back days. An off-shoulder sweater is such a trendy cool-girl staple, and it looks amazing with any skirt.
I’d go for one with thick ribbed fabric in a neutral gray color that works so well with the charcoal shade of the pleated mini.
Sheer black tights add a little edge, while the red Mary Janes bring in a fun pop of color.
It’s a relaxed outfit that still makes a stylish statement.
11. Beige Jacket and Trousers, Black Top and Mary Janes

Our last outfit formula is another amazing go-to for looking chic on those super busy days. It’s all about neutral pieces with a colorful accent.
A beige cropped jacket paired with white wide-leg trousers creates a crisp, modern suiting look, which is grounded perfectly by a black sleeveless shell.
I’d complete the ensemble with some always-appropriate black Mary Janes for a sophisticated outfit that feels totally effortless.
12. Light Blue Button-Up, Denim Skirt and Red Mary Janes

Denim skirts are the ultimate canvas for styling Mary Janes if you’re going for an effortlessly cool vibe.
In this look, a light wash denim maxi skirt with a front slit shows just a hint of leg, which contrasts so nicely with a light blue button-up shirt.
Let the shoes be the accent piece by choosing some bright red Mary Jane pumps. A pair of cat eye sunglasses adds that perfect retro-glam touch.
13. Gray Blazer, Vest and Jeans with White Mary Jane Pumps

You can give your Mary Janes a sophisticated spin by working them into a smart casual outfit that has some business-wear vibes.
A tailored gray blazer and a matching button-front vest make a suit-inspired statement, but the light wash jeans keep it feeling casual.
White Mary Jane block-heeled pumps are such a fresh choice for summer. It’s the perfect polished look for a semi-formal daytime event.
14. Black and White Striped Cardigan, Skirt and Mary Janes

If you’re looking for an easy outfit formula, you can never go wrong with monochromatic neutrals. A black and white striped knit cardigan is the perfect layering piece over a black mini skirt.
To ground the look, go with matching black opaque tights and some patent Mary Jane shoes for a perfectly polished outfit. It’s a total failsafe.
15. Red Off-Shoulder Crop Top and Cargo Pants with Red Mary Janes

If you’re in the mood to make a splash, an all-red monochromatic look is the way to go. A cropped off-shoulder top that shows just a little skin is a great balance for the loose silhouette of black wide-leg cargo pants.
To keep that fiery color scheme going, wear some red Mary Jane pumps to tie the whole outfit together. This bold head-to-toe look is perfect for making an entrance at a party.
16. Black Satin Slip Dress and Pink Mary Jane

Let your Mary Janes be the star of the show by pairing them with simple, complementary pieces, like this gorgeous black satin slip dress. The cowl neckline and spaghetti straps have such a timeless feel.
The whole look is understated but still glamorous, which I think is perfect for cocktails or a date night.
17. White Button-Up and Gray Cardigan with Black Mary Janes

Speaking of preppy style, you just can’t go wrong with a crisp white button-up shirt, especially when you style it with some proper, ladylike accessories.
I’d tuck it into a charcoal gray mini skirt and then layer on a matching knit cardigan.
Some white ankle socks and black Mary Jane pumps keep the whole look feeling prim and proper. It’s a classic outfit combination that will always look so put-together.
18. Oversized Red Jacket, Gray Sweatshirt and Blue Jeans with Black Mary Janes

Give your favorite casual sweatshirt and jeans combo a quick style boost by layering pieces in complementary colors. An oversized red jacket makes such a vibrant statement over a basic gray sweatshirt.
Dark rinse skinny jeans help keep things streamlined and unfussy. And the perfect finishing touch? A pair of proper black Mary Jane pumps, of course!
19. Pink “Paris” T-Shirt, White Shorts and Red Mary Janes

Mary Jane shoes have this certain something that feels just right for a Parisian-inspired outfit.
Have some fun with a casual summer look by pairing a graphic tee that has “Paris” in pink script with some crisp white shorts.
Then, let a pair of red Mary Janes be the focal point that pulls the whole thing together. It’s a look that’s comfortable, playful, and so chic!
20. Olive Dress with Lace Sleeves and Mary Jane Shoes

If you’re wanting to show just a hint of skin, try layering a sleeveless dress over a long-sleeve lacy blouse. This olive green dress gets such a romantic vibe from the sheer white lace sleeves that peek out from underneath.
I’d keep the accessories minimal to let all the textures shine. A simple pair of Mary Jane shoes is honestly all you need to finish off this flirty, boho look.