Nearly Sneakers, Nearly Flats—You'll Either Adore or Dislike This New Hybrid Shoe Trend.

      It's hard to envision a time when unconventional sneaker trends, like ballet and loafer sneakers, weren't a regular sight. Nowadays, however, these styles have undoubtedly entered the mainstream. Sporty footwear hybrids are popping up everywhere, and the latest trend to emerge? Mary Jane sneakers. Blending elements of classic French girl style with those of running shoes, Mary Jane sneakers are less outrageous than their name implies, and they’re already gaining popularity among influencers. For instance, Dua Lipa made good use of her Puma ambassadorship by testing the brand's new Speedcat Ballet Flat in Australia during her Radical Optimism World Tour.

      Even though this trend is relatively new, we can't overlook fashion's love for hybrid footwear that feels like the creation of a mad scientist seeking online attention. Mary Jane sneakers certainly fit this description, as searches for them have surged over the past year. There’s clear evidence that this trend is gaining momentum. Miu Miu was instrumental in bringing this style to the forefront with the launch of its Tyre range. These sneakers combined a technical design with the softness of a ballet flat and featured an elastic strap over the foot. The launch of the ivory and cloud grey color options was perfectly timed, as they quickly sold out. The padded fabric and suede tip seemed like a natural progression for the retro and contrasting sneakers seen in previous seasons, indicating our desire for unique footwear.

      The blend of functionality and femininity captures the allure of Mary Jane sneakers, and in the wake of the blokette aesthetic and balletcore trend, it's an ideal time for them to gain popularity. Major brands are also embracing this trend, with offerings from Zara and Mango, as well as genuine athletic versions from Vans, Nike, and Salomon. Adidas is likely to follow suit soon, hinting at a Mary Jane samba in the works. Meanwhile, various alternatives are available to purchase from names like Wales Bonner, Cecilie Bahnsen, and Marni. Here are some standout Mary Jane sneaker options:

      **Shop the Mary Jane Sneaker Trend**

      **PUMA**

      Speedcat Ballet Metallic Women's Shoes

      Available in four variations, including metallic leather and pink suede.

      **Salomon**

      Gender Inclusive Rx Marie-Jeanne Sneaker

      Featuring a buckle detail instead of traditional velcro.

      **ZARA**

      Satin Effect Stitched Ballet Flats

      I love this satin velcro design.

      **Free People**

      Ash Rolls Sneakers

      A perfect choice for fans of the Asics Gel-Kayano 14.

      **ZARA**

      Leather Ballet Flats With Elastic Straps

      The espresso leather looks so luxurious.

      **Charles & Keith**

      Metallic Curved Platform Mary Jane Sneakers

      Combines features of a chunky loafer with a Mary Jane style.

      **Miu Miu**

      Tyre Technical Fabric and Suede Ballerinas

      I would pair these with a cargo skirt and knitted balaclava.

      **Charles & Keith**

      Mesh Contrast-Panel Mary Jane Sneakers

      A stylish alternative to the Miu Miu pair.

      **ZARA**

      Sporty Ballet Flats With Bow

      This pair deserves a spot on your wishlist.

      The curved soles are inspired by the landscape of the Mallorca mountains.

      **Mm6 Maison Margiela X Salomon**

      Xt-Mary J Sneakers

      The perfect choice for Tabi enthusiasts.

      **Marni**

      Black Pablo Mary Jane Ballerina Flats

      This leather and rubber design from Marni showcases the brand's coveted eclectic style.

      **ZARA**

      Patent Double Strap Ballet Flats

      These offer a sleek silhouette.

      **Free People**

      Vans Mary Janes

      Captures the essence of "He was a punk, she did ballet."

      **NIKE**

      Air Rift Suede Low-Top Trainers

      Iris Law has a nearly identical pair.

      **Cecilie Bahnsen**

      Aria Sneakers

      A charming follow-up to Cecilie Bahnsen's iconic Asics GT 2160 Mary Jane sneaker.

      **Wales Bonner**

      Wales Bonner Logo-Embossed Sneakers | 37

      If Wales Bonner can have the same impact on the Mary Jane sneaker trend as she did with the Sambas, this style will be unstoppable.

      **ZARA**

      Sporty Ballet Flats With Bow

      I really like the bow detail on this pair.

      **MANGO**

      Cross-Sport Ballet Flats

      If you’re a fan of the crisscross Alaïa version, these will definitely appeal to you.

      This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.