I have a confession: I hate high heels.
Unlike the opening montage in The Devil Wears Prada, I can’t imagine willingly putting on a pair of sky-high stilettos to head into the office. As a new New Yorker, I do a ton of walking—mostly in my beat-up Adidas Stan Smiths that I’ve practically worn-down to nubs in an ode to Phoebe Philo (who would famously wear them during runway shows during her Celine tenure.)
Since adopting a morning commute that involves trekking almost a mile to work, having good, comfortable footwear is my mantra. While the Who What Wear team doesn’t look twice at my beat-up trainers (we’re a no-judgment zone!), sometimes, I want to spice up my footwear and feel a bit more fancy when heading into the office. My latest obsession? Mary Janes with socks or leg-warmers for an indie sleeze look.
As a child of the internet age, Tumblr is my style north star, and there’s nothing more 2014 grunge than a chunky pair of Mary Janes paired with some frilly, pretty socks. Now that twee and indie sleeze styles are having a major resurgence, it’s no surprise that the Mary Jane and chunky, slouchy sock combination is at the top of my mind.
Below, scroll through the Mary Jane and hosiery combinations that have been living in my head rent-free. As a personal rule of thumb, if it’s good enough for Miss Bella Hadid, it’s good enough for me.
This emerald green hue lives in my dreams.
These intricately-knit pastel pink leg warmers follow the pretty ballet-core trend that I’ve been chasing down for months.
A classic, no-frills pair that’s sure to go with everything.
For your e-girl friends, look no further than this bright, baby blue pair of Mary Janes.
These grey, cable-knit leg warmers are made for Miu Miu lovers.
You can’t go wrong with a classic.
The iconic pair is also available in white!
After living in Tokyo, Japan for over a year, these socks remind me of the country’s school uniforms that have been referenced in pop-culture again and again.
The dainty, triple-strap detail on these Mary Janes set them apart from the rest.
The embellishment on this pair from Ganni elevate what would be a simple, sleek pair into something more fun.
Blinged-out lovers, look no further.
For extra cozy winter nights.
I’ve had this pair in my closet for 5 months now and trust me, they’re a year-round staple.
The platform on this blush pair remind me of a fun, modern-day ballerina.
The holidays are coming early with this festive pair.
The best gift to give this season? Socks, of course.
Fashion girls, rise. For those looking for an unconventional of Mary Janes, the Maison Margiela tabis are a go-to choice.
Coming in under $35, this Amazon pair are perfect if you want to try out the style before fully committing and investing in a pair of Mary Janes with a higher price tag.
See-through socks still feel fresh.
This T-strap pair from Reformation is a personal favorite.
This color is beyond chic with a pair of jeans and white socks.
You can’t go wrong with a classic, lace pair of socks in combination with some sleek Mary Janes.
Just like lug-sole boots and loafers, lug-sole Mary Janes are here to stay.
If a French girl walked into Zara, she’d definitely pick up these.
These cozy, seafoam Alo socks are a pop of color when wearing them with classic black Mary Janes.
If you haven’t seen these on your Instagram explore page, are you really on Instagram?
Recommend these to a friend who loves a little extra height.
This pair of white Mary Janes are currently sitting in my J.Crew cart—and I’m obsessed.
Next, some more mary jane outfit ideas to incorporate into your closet.
