A Modern Mary Jane: The Sèzane Paula Babies
The Sèzane Paula Babies: An Overview
Every now and then, a pair of shoes captures our attention and begs the question: Is it worth the hype? Enter the Sézane Paula Babies. I think it’s fair to say that THE shoe of Fall 2023 is the Mary Jane. Is it a trend? Yes. Do I think that all of the trends this fall being a return to classics is a sign of an impending recession? Maybe. But as someone who has been thinking more wisely about their style and wardrobe purchases, I’m glad to see a shoe like this come into style.
Priced at $215, in a gorgeous patent camel-colored leather, the Sezane Paula Babies promised to be everything I was looking for. But as every shoe enthusiast knows, beauty isn’t everything. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of these shoes and figure out if they truly pass the comfort test.
Are The Sézane Paula Babies Comfortable?
My goal for the Paula Babies was to have something slightly elevated, but still casual enough for daily wear. I’ll be honest: the first time I wore these was incredibly painful, but that was my fault. For some reason, I decided the best way to break in a new heel was to walk my entire commute through San Francisco in them. If you know the hills here, you know that was the dumbest possible thing I could have done. I got blisters so bad that I had to be barefoot at the office, which was…a lot.
So yeah, not the best first impression even if it was my fault. But, once they’re out of the box and worn, they’re yours, so I decided to task myself with breaking them in properly.
Here’s how I did it: I extended the ankle strap to it’s longest possible length, put on my thickest socks (that I knit myself!) and walked around my house in them in 10 minute spurts a few times a day, for about one week. It worked! I’ve worn them sans socks multiple times since and it’s been a breeze.
Now, will these be my daily, walk everywhere shoe? No. I probably wont be doing a walking tour around the city in them. I can, however, walk my commute, around the office, and back home in them comfortably. I can wear them to dinner and drinks, and out shopping with no issues. So, mission accomplished.
What is the Sizing Like on The Paula Babies?
Sézane recomends purchasing the Paula Babies in a size up. I am somewhere between a 5.5-6, so I took the risk and purchased a size FR 36/UK 3/ US 6, hoping that a 1/2 size difference would be enough to help them fit.
The toe of the shoe is a very flattering slightly rounded square shape. The slight rounding helps to make more room in the toe area, but I still find the fit slightly narrow. On that first wear, I only had blisters across my pinkie and fourth toe. After breaking them in, I’ve noticed a bit more “give” to the leather in that area, which hasn’t affected the appearance of the shoe on the outside.
The great thing about the Paula Babies is that they feature two straps across the toes along with an ankle strap, which are all adjustable. The first strap over the toes hits right at the bottom of the big toe, whilst the second hits over the bridge of the foot. These two straps really help to customize the feel and fit of the shoe as well as make it feel secure on the foot.
Overall, the sizing on these runs slightly small and narrow, with some ability to adjust via the straps and natural breaking in of the leather.
Styling the Paula Babies:
I think it’s safe to say that anyone who knows me might find a mary jane outside of my usual wardrobe choices, which is part of what made them so enticing to me. I’ve been trying to diversify my wardrobe and get out of the WFH clothing rut, while still being mindful that I’m buying long-term investment pieces. I really enjoy the Paula Babies as a “counter-point” to some of my baggier pants. The slight heel also helps to create the illusion of longer legs when paired with a long straight-leg pant, which I find super flattering as a shortie.
To Buy or Not to Buy: The Verdict on the Paula Babies
Alright, here's the deal. After a rocky start (thanks, San Francisco hills), I've come to genuinely adore the Sézane Paula Babies. After giving them some break-in love, they've been my go-to for both office days and casual outings. The adjustable straps, the snug fit after breaking in, and their classic silhouette make them more than just a fleeting trend of Fall 2023. By now, they've earned their spot in my closet. For anyone on the fence, give them a shot, but maybe skip the SF hill challenge on day one.
Love French-inspired fashion? Read my review of the Polène Numero Dix Bag Here.
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