I'm Over Boots—Here's the Elegant Flat Shoe I'm Wearing with Jeans Instead

We're finally at the tail end of January, and at last, spring is in sight. Whilst the temperature has crept up enough to allow us to swap our knee-high boots for some lighter styles, we're still a way off from strappy sandals season. Luckily, I've found the perfect compromise. Composed of a luxuriously soft, comfortable and cosy fabric, velvet Mary Janes are the light yet snug footwear style that editors and influencers are opting for right now.
In plush and sleek velvet, these chic shoes do all of the hard work for you. With a naturally dressy edge and a neat buckle fastening, velvet Mary Janes have the ability to freshen up a casual jeans outfit or add the finishing touch to a formal look if you don't fancy wearing heels.
Last year saw a meteoric rise in the popularity of Mary Janes as fashion people began to retire their elegant heels in favour of the practical yet chic style. Whilst velvet Mary Janes have been catching our attention as of late, last season brought sleek leather styles, glamorous crystal-embellished flats, and summer-ready mesh styles into the mainstream.
Whilst some brands have spent seasons honing exquisite velvet Mary Janes, others have perfected their styles more recently. From Le Monde Beryl's cult velvet flats to Vibi Venezia's two-tone designs and Reformation's elegant black slippers—not to mention Zara's excellent, affordable option (dee below)—velvet Mary Janes have become a staple footwear style amongst some of our favourite retailers.
On Sofia Richie: Le Monde Beryl Velvet Mary Janes (£395)
Ideal for the winter-to-spring transition, read on to discover our edit of the best velvet Mary Janes to shop now.
SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST VELVET MARY JANES:
Reformation's cult Bethany ballet flat comes in so many fabrics and colours.
In my opinion, red velvet Mary Janes are the perfect party shoes.
These two-tone flats look chic styled with socks or on their own.
Wear with your favourite jeans or style with a white maxi skirt.
The elegant buckle detailing elevates the feel of these classic flats.
Opening Image: @deborabrosa
Next Up: French Women Live in Mary Janes—19 Pairs That Feel the Parisian Part
Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer and has worked in the fashion industry since she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of the Arts London. Natalie’s experience in the industry spans journalistic and styling roles that have seen her work for publications including British Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Reporting on a daily basis, Natalie focuses on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.
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