Hello, I'm a fashion historian with a keen interest in the evolution of footwear. Let's delve into the origins of the name "Mary Jane" shoes.

The "Mary Jane" style of shoes is characterized by a single strap across the instep, securing the shoe and providing a distinctive look. The name itself is quite interesting and has a few theories surrounding its origin.

One popular belief is that the name "Mary Jane" was inspired by a comic strip character named Mary Jane, who was depicted wearing these types of shoes in the early 20th century. However, this theory is not entirely accurate. The term "Mary Jane" was actually in use before the comic strip character came into existence.

Another theory suggests that the name came from a baby shoe style, as "Mary Janes" were a popular choice for infants and young children in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The name could have been derived from the simple and innocent nature of these shoes, which were often associated with young girls named Mary and Jane.

Regardless of the exact origin, the "Mary Jane" has become a classic and versatile style of footwear that has evolved over the years, appealing to both children and adults alike.

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The name comes from the shoes worn by Mary Jane, a character from the Buster Brown comic strip (drawn by R F Outcault) which first appeared in the New York Herald in 1902. Little girls everywhere clamoured for them, and until the late Fifties they were a must-have style for both boys and girls.read more >>