It's a fact: Fashion enthusiasts are replacing their loafers and ballet flats with this controversial sneaker trend.

      If you're a regular reader of Who What Wear UK, you'll be aware of our enthusiasm for analyzing the sneaker trends that influence the current fashion landscape. From the lasting charm of the Adidas Samba and Gazelle to more avant-garde designs (such as the Vibram 5Finger or bulky Salomn styles), there are very few sneaker trends that we've yet to discuss. Despite our extensive exploration, one peculiar shape still warrants attention: the Mary Jane Trainer. This shoe, which fuses the classic elegance of a Mary Jane (it is French, after all!) with the endless comfort of sneakers, has seen a surge in popularity.

      Dua Lipa showcased her icy silver Puma Speedcat ballet flats during a pilates class in Australia, while Iris Law styled her various looks with outfits ranging from teal shorts to lace capris. After purchasing a pair myself (The Satin Puma Speedcat Ballets felt like they were made for me!), I struggled to figure out how to style them. To maximize my investment, I did what I often do during a fashion dilemma: I sought inspiration from the stylish influencers in my social media feed. As expected, they did not disappoint. Whether they created effortless coordination through matching colors or added a pop of pattern to relaxed denim styles, I quickly realized that styling Mary Jane trainers could not be simpler. With their popularity on Google surging this week (up 200% week on week), I figured you might also have recently made a purchase and could be facing the same styling challenge. Thus, I thought it best to share solutions with you. Scroll down to find three outfit ideas featuring Mary Jane trainers, along with some tips on how to wear them stylishly in spring 2026.

      1. Mary Jane Trainers + Fitted Shirt + Jeans

      Styling Notes: If you're looking to give your basic "jeans-and-nice-top" formula a unique twist, a pair of patterned Mary Jane trainers is an effortless choice. They add a playful touch and bring a sense of comfort to even the simplest outfits.

      Shop the Look:

      - Róhe Gathered Cotton T-Shirt

       The stylish cinched waist makes this tee versatile, even without the added appeal of Mary Jane trainers.

      

      - H&M Wide High Waist Jeans

       My preferred pair of relaxed jeans.

      

      - I'll be swapping the cow print for this refined taupe option from UGG instead.

      2. Mary Jane Ballet Trainers + Polka Dot Windbreaker + Bermudas

      Styling Notes: This option is for the more eclectic dressers among us, offering an easy way to embrace the current matchy-matchy trend. Keeping it casual with dark wash Bermudas, you can easily elevate this outfit with satin trousers or a maxi skirt.

      Shop the Look:

      - MANGO Dots Bomber Jacket - Women

       Smaller dots always appear much more upscale to me.

      

      - MANGO Mid-Rise Denim Bermuda Jorts

       Challenge me to find a more stylish pair of denim Bermudas!

      

      - adidas Originals Taekwondo Mei Ballet Trainers

       This style has been trending on my social media lately.

      3. Mary Jane Trainer + Windbreaker + Capris

      Styling Notes: Combining two of the biggest spring trends (a funnel neck technical jacket and capri leggings), Ruby Lyn uses her Mary Jane trainers to refresh her outfit. By removing the detachable straps for a sleeker look, the blue color adds a vibrant touch, effortlessly enhancing the overall ensemble.

      Shop the Look:

      - Whistles Funnel Neck Parka Jacket

       With all the benefits of a windbreaker and a fashionable funnel neck, this tan jacket from Whistles is vying to be your go-to spring outerwear.

      

      - lululemon Align™ High-Rise Crop 17" - Black

       I haven’t come across a comfier, softer pair of capris!

      

      - Adidas Samba Jane Ballet Trainers

       I’ll be switching out Ruby’s Adidas for this viral pair instead.