Olivia Rodrigo’s Mary Jane Shoes: The Viral Fall Trend Everyone’s Obsessed With
How Olivia Rodrigo turned ViBi Venezia Mary Janes into this season’s must-have shoe—and where to shop the look for less.
Olivia Rodrigo’s Cozy Fall Style: The Mary Jane Moment
When it comes to setting fashion trends, Olivia Rodrigo is firmly at the helm. This fall, one piece from her Instagram-fueled wardrobe is captivating fans and trendsetters alike: a pair of rich burgundy ViBi Venezia velvet Mary Jane shoes. Rodrigo’s artful blend of classic charm and modern attitude has turned these under-the-radar Italian flats into autumn’s official shoe obsession.
Below, we break down Olivia’s viral shoe pick, explore why Mary Janes are having a pop culture resurgence, compare style icons wearing the same trend, and reveal affordable ways to replicate the look—without breaking the bank.
The Photo That Sparked a Style Frenzy
Olivia Rodrigo’s recent Instagram post was a masterclass in autumnal style. Between her Frye Campus 14L Boots, a vintage Burberry trench, and a classic ’47 Yankees cap, her standout footwear—a pair of ViBi Venezia Mary Jane flats in this season’s top color: burgundy—stole the show and set off a rush of admiration and online hunts for the shoes.
What Makes ViBi Venezia Mary Janes So Special?
Hailing from Italy’s Venice region, ViBi Venezia Mary Janes are handmade and inspired by the traditional slippers once worn by Venetian gondoliers. Combining centuries-old craftsmanship with contemporary design, the brand is known for its plush velvet fabric, minimalist round-toe silhouette, and signature strapped style that’s both unfussy and chic.
- Material: Velvet uppers delivering warmth, comfort, and a lush texture that’s perfect for cooler months.
- Design Heritage: Inspired by gondolier slippers, merging heritage with high fashion appeal.
- Price Point: Priced at $150, they offer designer cachet at a (relatively) accessible rate for a wardrobe staple shoe.
These Mary Janes don’t just photograph well; they’re versatile enough to be worn to brunch, to the office, or on a weekend stroll, bridging the gap between cozy and cool with effortless style.
The Velvet Mary Jane: Fall’s It Shoe in Burgundy
This year’s defining hue in accessories is burgundy—a deep, wine-inspired shade that’s both playful and sophisticated. Olivia Rodrigo’s velvet ViBi Venezias perfectly embody the season’s palette, proving that the color isn’t just for lips or nails, but works exquisitely on shoes.
Here’s why burgundy Mary Janes are everywhere:
- Warmth for the Season: Deep reds and merlots are synonymous with fall aesthetics.
- Pairing Potential: Burgundy complements denim, beige, navy, and black, offering a pop without overwhelming an outfit.
- Icon Status: The shade feels elevated but is easy enough for everyday outfits, from vintage to athleisure.
What others are reading
Get the Olivia Rodrigo Look: ViBi Venezia Mary Jane Flats
| Brand | Style | Main Feature | Price (USD) | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ViBi Venezia | Velvet Mary Jane Flats | Handmade, plush velvet, round toe | $150 | Tuckernuck, NET-A-PORTER |
Pro tip: The exact pair Olivia wore is still in stock for now, but these shoes have a habit of selling out quickly whenever they hit the spotlight.
Price Point Breakdown: Affordable Alternatives
Not all of us have a $150 shoe budget—but you can get the look for less. Here are four wallet-friendly alternatives that channel the same burgundy velvet Mary Jane vibe at a fraction of the cost:
- FEVERSOLE Round Toe Mary Jane Flats ($39 at Amazon)
- UO Madeline Velvet Mary Jane Ballet Flat ($39 at Urban Outfitters)
- Charles & Keith Carmel Velvet Buckled Mary Jane Flats (price varies; accessible and chic)
- Melissa Soft Ballerina Velvet Flats ($89 at shopmelissa.com)
Each of these alternatives brings together the cozy texture, comfort, and streamlined style that defines the trend—no need to compromise on style or savings.
Celebrity Endorsements: Burgundy Is In
Olivia Rodrigo’s not the only tastemaker embracing the burgundy shoe moment this fall. From red carpets to city sidewalks, this trend is everywhere among A-listers:
- Taylor Swift: Wore Aquazzura merlot-toned mules (sadly sold out) for a dinner outing with Zoë Kravitz.
- Jenna Ortega: Chose Jimmy Choo Marlow loafers in burgundy at the Venice International Film Festival.
- Katie Holmes: Spotted walking through NYC in Mansur Gavriel Square Toe Ballerina flats—she owns the ViBi Venezia Mary Janes in blue, too.
Burgundy’s universality is part of its power. Whether styled with sharp tailoring, feminine dresses, or cozy knits, this shade delivers polish and trendiness in equal measure.
How to Style Mary Janes Through Fall and Winter
The Mary Jane, thanks to its all-occasion versatility, is easier to style than you might think. Here are a few methods to wear yours, inspired by Olivia and other fashion insiders:
- With Jeans: Pair velvet Mary Janes with straight-leg or wide-leg jeans, a soft sweater, and a statement trench for casual chic.
- With Dresses: Layer a turtleneck under a slip or mini dress, add tights and your Mary Janes for effortless fall femininity.
- With Tailoring: Style with cropped trousers and a crisp white shirt for a downtown office look with vintage vibes.
- With Cozy Layers: Wear with chunky socks and oversized knits when temperatures drop, letting the shoes’ color pop against neutrals.
Proven again and again: Mary Janes go with (nearly) everything!
Why Mary Janes? A Short Fashion History
The Mary Jane shoe is far from new. First popularized in children’s wardrobes in the early 20th century, the shoe was named after a comic strip character and quickly became a fashion staple among women, thanks to its secure strap and sweet aesthetic.
Through the years, the style’s been adopted and reinvented by icons like Jane Birkin, Alexa Chung, and now, Gen Z stars like Rodrigo, who style the shoes with a rebellious, ironic edge—balancing “good girl” with grown-up cool.
What distinguishes Mary Janes today is their flexibility. Whether rendered as ballet flats, block heels, or velvet slippers, they’re the rare shoe that can look both nostalgic and fresh, fitted for any era or mood.
Expert Tips: Caring for Velvet Flats
Velvet is a beautiful but delicate material. Here’s how to keep your ViBi Venezias and lookalikes looking fresh all season:
- Avoid Water: Velvet absorbs moisture—protect your shoes from rain and puddles whenever possible.
- Spot Clean: Use a soft, dry brush or a cloth to remove dust and debris.
- Air Out: Allow shoes to breathe between wears to preserve fabric and prevent odors.
- Storage: Store flats in a breathable bag or on a shelf, away from direct sunlight or tight squeezing.
With proper care, velvet Mary Janes can last beyond this season’s trend cycle, becoming wardrobe classics.
Editor’s Note: The Power of Accessibility in Footwear Trends
One secret of the Mary Jane’s enduring appeal? The range of price points means anyone, regardless of budget, can participate in the trend. From luxe Italian shoemakers to department store lookalikes, the shoe’s simple silhouette and chic versatility keep it in rotation season after season.
Burgundy Mary Janes: Table of Influencer Endorsements
| Celebrity | Brand | Occasion | Style Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Olivia Rodrigo | ViBi Venezia | Fall Instagram post | Burgundy velvet, round toe, $150 |
| Taylor Swift | Aquazzura | Dinner with Zoë Kravitz | Merlot mules, limited edition |
| Jenna Ortega | Jimmy Choo | Venice International Film Festival | Burgundy Marlow loafers |
| Katie Holmes | Mansur Gavriel | New York City, street style | Square Toe Ballerina in burgundy |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are ViBi Venezia Mary Jane flats true to size?
A: Yes, most wearers find these flats run true to size. If you’re between sizes, consider sizing up for a more relaxed fit, especially if you plan to style them with socks.
Q: Can you wear velvet Mary Janes in wet weather?
A: Velvet shoes are best kept dry; avoid rainy or snowy days to prevent staining or warping. If exposed to moisture, dab gently and let air dry naturally.
Q: Are there vegan or synthetic alternatives to velvet Mary Janes?
A: Yes, brands like Melissa offer vegan velvet materials, and several fast fashion retailers have similar styles in synthetic, animal-free materials.
Q: What outfits pair best with burgundy Mary Janes?
A: They pair beautifully with jeans, skirts, cozy knits, fall dresses, tights, and even refined tailoring. The color is versatile while adding a statement touch.
Q: How do I clean and maintain velvet Mary Janes?
A: Use a soft, dry brush and spot clean for everyday care. For tough stains, professional spot cleaning is recommended. Always store in a cool, dry place.
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Article by Corinne Sullivan, Editor at Cosmopolitan. She covers lifestyle, fashion, and celebrity shopping advice, and is the author of the novel Indecent (2018).
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