Mary Jane trainers are having a moment. The ballet-pump-sporty-hybrid silhouette has been building in popularity, with online marketplace StockX reporting that sales are now up more than 350% year over year (Q1 ’26 vs Q1 ’25), proving that the style has moved beyond a nostalgic revival into a key force in streetwear.
It's easy to see why — it combines the comfort and wearability of a trainer with the more dressed-up, stylish edge of a buckled Mary Jane shoe. One of the most popular styles is the Nike Air Rift. Originally launched in the early 2000s, the split toe shoe is having a huge resurgence, making up nearly half of the top 25 best-sellers on the StockX platform.
It would also be remiss to not mention the power of adidas. The brand reinvented it's hugely popular Samba silhouette into the Samba Jane on June 1st last year, immediately selling out online and being spotted on every it-girl since. At Simone Rocha's Autumn/Winter 2026 show during London Fashion Week in February, the designer unveiled a wide collaboration with the sportswear giant, which included a bejewelled, red-ribbon version of its lace-up ballet Taekwondo Mei shoes.
When it comes to styling tips, we recommend pairing with a knee-high sock to really embrace the playful, school-girl aesthetic. Midi skirts, sporty dresses and lightweight trousers will all work well, and don't be afraid to experiment with colour when choosing your shoe. Green is high on our moodboard right now...
So if you haven't dipped your toe into the trend as of yet, now is the time. With the warmer weather finally starting to edge in, a pair of Mary Jane trainers will easily become your go-to shoe. We've rounded up our favourite pairs below.
New Look Faux Leather Sports Ballet Flats
Bershka Sporty Ballet Pumps
adidas Barreda Mary Jane Shoes
Puma Mostro Fey Lace Sneaker
Nike Air Rift Shoes
Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 TGRS
Rebecca Jane Hill is the Senior Fashion Editor at Cosmopolitan UK. She has previously contributed to publications including Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, Refinery29, The Face, Glamour and Stylist. She started her own magazine, Sister, in 2012 whilst at university. Focused around feminism, fashion and culture, it went on to produce 12 globally stocked print issues, as well as countless events and partnerships. She closed the magazine in 2023.
Rebecca has been an associate lecturer at London College of Fashion since 2018, where she teaches on the Fashion Journalism course. She is a passionate second-hand shopper and is constantly on the lookout for new design talent.
