Mary Jane Block Heels: Chunky, Platform and Pump Styles
The heel shape is what sets this page apart. Block heels are wide from top to bottom, so your weight is spread over a larger surface than on a stiletto. The Block Heel Mary Janes and Block Heel Mary Jane Shoes come in white, black and brown, and the Mary Jane Block Heel Pumps add burgundy and cream white with a glossy finish.
For more height with less strain, the Chunky Heel Mary Jane Platforms raise the front of the foot as well as the heel, in white, black, pink or wine red. The Chunky Heel Mary Janes come in glossy black or matte black, a modern take with a thick sole.
Block Heel Mary Jane Shoes in the 1920s
When skirts rose in the 1920s, shoes suddenly mattered. Women needed footwear that stayed on through the Charleston, so the strap across the instep became the standard look, often with a curved or sturdy Cuban heel of low to medium height. Bar shoes and T-straps filled dance halls and offices alike.
A block heel is the closest modern echo of that sturdy period heel. Paired with a drop waist or a fringe dress, it gives the right silhouette while staying comfortable enough for a long party. Our 1920s day dress styles and flapper dresses both look right with these shoes.
Ankle, Double and T Strap Styles on a Mary Jane Block Heel
Strap placement changes both the look and the hold. A single strap over the instep is the classic Mary Jane line. The Double Strap Mary Jane Heels, in black or brown, add a second strap for extra support, and the T Strap Mary Jane Heels, in off white or black, run a center strap up from the toe in true 1920s fashion.
The Ankle Strap Mary Jane Heels, in white, wine red or black, wrap higher on the leg, which helps the shoe stay on when dancing.
Black, White and Red Mary Janes with Block Heel
Black is the workhorse color, with plenty of styles: the Black Mary Jane Block Heels, Women's Black Mary Jane Heels and Black Mary Jane Heel Shoes all go with dark tights and evening dresses. White, in the White Mary Jane Block Heels or the White Mary Jane Heel Shoes, is lovely for weddings and summer parties. For more of each color, see our black mary jane heels and white mary jane heels.
Red is the statement option: the Red Mary Jane Block Heels look great with a black flapper dress or a navy day dress. Patent styles in claret or beige, soft suede in brown and a black velvet pair add texture; more red pairs are in our red mary jane heels.
How to Wear Block Heel Mary Janes to a Gatsby Party
Keep the outfit balanced. With a beaded or fringe dress, a black or metallic pair keeps attention on the dress, while red or gold mary janes work with a plain black dress. Sheer or seamed tights in nude or black give the most period result.
Add a long strand of faux pearls, a feather headband and a small clutch. Break the shoes in at home before a long night of dancing.
Sizing and Comfort in Block Heel Mary Jane Pumps
Many of these shoes use EU sizing. Measure your foot length in the evening, when feet are slightly larger, and compare with our size guide before ordering. Wide feet or caught between two sizes? Order the next half size and let the strap take up any slack. A stable block heel is a good choice for weddings on grass or long evenings on your feet.
Block Heel Mary Janes FAQ
Are block heel Mary Janes comfortable?
They are usually easier to walk in than stilettos, because the wide heel spreads your weight. Comfort still depends on height, so pick a lower heel if you will stand for hours.
Are these shoes accurate for a 1920s outfit?
They are modern shoes inspired by the period. The strap over the instep and the sturdy heel give the right silhouette for a Gatsby party.
How do I choose the right size?
Measure your foot and use our size guide. If you are between sizes, choose the larger size and adjust the strap.
Can I dance in chunky heel Mary Janes?
Yes. A block heel and a strap that holds the foot in place make them a good choice for dancing.
Which color is the most versatile?
Black goes with nearly everything, from evening dresses to day dresses. White and red are great second pairs.
Do you have lower heels?
Yes. Our kitten heel page has Mary Janes with a lower heel, and the wider Mary Jane range has mid and high options.
