Made In Italy | The Mary Jane
A contemporary take on a timeless classic, our Mary Jane was handcrafted by expert Italian artisans to bridge the gap between comfort and chic.
Behind The Design
Invented in 1902, the Mary Jane style was originally designed as everyday footwear for children. Its pivotal moment came in 1934 when Shirley Temple wore a pristine white pair in the film ‘Baby Take a Bow’. In the years since, the Mary Jane has become a style staple to transcend generations. A testament to the style’s enduring allure, its icon status comes back to versatility and wearability across the seasons. Blending a playful and feminine edge with a minimal and practical touch, our take is decidedly contemporary, complete with an open back for added ease of wear.
Conscious Craftsmanship
Each Mary Jane’s journey spans 29 people and eight specialised suppliers. Crafted in a small town just outside of Florence, each pair is brought to life by a talented community whose expertise has been passed down through generations. It’s through working locally with family-run factories and their resident craftspeople that we’re able to effectively manage our carbon footprint, ensuring we only ever make what we need.
Crafted with care from luxurious and responsible materials, the artisans' meticulous attention to detail is evident within all the subtle details of the Mary Jane. ESSEN’s take features a sleek silhouette designed to elongate the leg and a pointed toe for a touch of architectural elegance. The signature padded strap ensures an ideal fit, while the memory foam cushioned sole and rubber outsole promise to keep your feet secure and comfortable for all-day wear.
Style Notes
Effortlessly elegant with comfort at its core, The Mary Jane is so versatile you'll reach for it often. Anchored in the ESSEN design ethos, each pair’s ease and inherent wearability lends itself to endless styling opportunities. Seamlessly embodying day-to-night transitions, the understated yet chic details promise to instantly elevate any outfit. From grounding elegant evening silhouettes to styling it with skirts and a classic white sock - think of it as a study in the power of perennial pieces; an essential addition to your capsule wardrobe.
