How many of us can recall, as little girls, owning a prized pair of patent leather Mary Janes? They were the sort of shoe you'd save for events like birthday parties or holidays, usually pairing them with tights or frilly ankle socks as befitted their all-dressed-up status. And whatever the occasion, you knew that when you strapped those shoes on, good things were coming your way.
Today, patent leather is having a moment that's more than menswear than Mary Janes. However it's no less fun and exciting—largely because this iteration is so versatile! No longer boxed up in tissue and waiting for an excuse to play, patent is free to roam the streets in concert with boyfriend jeans or midi skirts, wide-leg trousers and maxi dresses.
And the variety of patent leather shoes available now is as diverse as the many personalities it suits! They range from pointed-toe brogues with barely-there soles for the minimalist to chunky lug sole loafers for the 90's gal. Colors include classic black or nude, warm burgundy an cool silver, and even cap-toes and color blocking for the truly adventurous. Now to find a pair of frilly ankle socks, and I'll be all set for a skip down memory lane!
Shopping Guide: 1. Burgundy Brogues 2. Studded Patent Leather Shoes 3. Gold Metallic Oxfords 4. Patent Leather Loafers 5. Pointed Toe Brogues 6. Silver Metallic Loafers Images: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.