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Remember we predicted that 2020 would be the year of several controversial trends that may divide South Africans across social media platforms?
Well, the throwbacks just keep coming - from pedal pushers and classic French manicures to Mary-Jane shoes.
And every time I see a celebrity or an 'It' girl somewhat popularising one of these trends, I get a little more hopeful that flip phones are also making their way back to relevance.
2019's unlikely top trend was the 'shacket' (leather shirt), and this item of clothing earned its street cred, infiltrating elite fashion circles in a big way. However, I doubt 2020's predicted 'throwback comeback' will be as much of a cool girl as her predecessor, the leather shirt.
See, Mary-Jane is less of an extrovert, and prefers to only come out for specific occasions. And being the kitten heels' misunderstood cousin means she can also be quite an acquired taste at times.
But as I often say, when it comes to offbeat fashion pieces, the devil is in the styling. And that rule will certainly apply for any adopters of the Mary-Jane shoe trend (myself included).
READ MORE: Could 2020 be the year of 'controversial' fashion trends SA isn't quite ready for yet?
So let's take a look at where these clackers first hinted at a return to the mainstream fashion scene for 2020:
Runway
The Carolina Herrera Spring/Summer '20 show models exhibited this collection wearing Mary-Jane heels in an array of hues.
The Marc Jacobs show also gave Mary-Jane shoes the green light for Spring/Summer 2020.
Streets
A traditional 'schoolgirl' approach spotted in the streets of Shanghai.
The Mary-Jane mules - a modern twist I quite like.
A casual statement.
And a kitten-heel-meets-Mary-Jane hybrid. Step into it if you dare. Personally, I will.
Images: Getty
Shop
Whatever height you prefer, there's a pair of Mary-Janes for you.
Flat
Round pump, R60 at MRP online
Midi
Kelso Mary Jane low heels, R299 at Edgars
High
Mary-Jane heels, R421 on Superbalist
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