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July 24, 2025

The Classic Tale of Mary JanE's

Mary Jane shoes have been a classic choice for many women worldwide. They are popular for their simple and timeless design, making them a top choice for parents when selecting shoes for their children. The instep design of Mary Jane shoes also makes them a practical and comfortable option for young kids to wear and move around in.

Many of us first learned about Mary Jane shoes through popular culture such as Alice in Wonderland, Sex and the City, or Clueless, depending on our age. However, there is more to Mary Jane shoes than just their closed toe and instep straps. Over time, Mary Jane shoes have evolved and become even more versatile, with various styles and colors now available to choose from.

Despite the changes, Mary Jane shoes remain a classic and beloved shoe style. They are perfect for both casual and formal occasions, and their comfortable design makes them ideal for everyday wear. Whether you are a long-time fan of Mary Janes or a newcomer to this timeless shoe, there is no denying their enduring popularity and charm.

The label "Mary Jane" may be American, but the shoe style dates back further. These shoes are characterized by their low heels, closed rounded toes, a strap, and buckle. Despite their modest design, they remain popular to this day. The shoes were originally worn by both genders, but with time, they became associated with female footwear. Their popularity has endured due to their versatility. They can be worn with dresses, skirts, and even jeans. Mary Jane shoes come in a variety of colors and materials, making them ideal for any occasion. From school uniforms to formal events, Mary Janes have become a classic shoe style that has stood the test of time.

In the late 19th and early 20th century, children wore 'bar' shoes, which were later renamed as Mary Janes by the Brown Shoe Company. What is surprising is that boys wore them more commonly than girls.

The Brown Shoe Company named their bar shoes after the mischievous cartoon character Buster Brown and his sweetheart Mary Jane. This was a marketing strategy that paid off for the company. They paid $200 to cartoonist R.F. Outcoult for licensing rights and also bought the rights for Buster’s sweetheart Mary Jane, whose character was based on the cartoonist’s daughter of the same name.

By associating themselves with the popular cartoon characters, the Brown Shoe Company was able to market their shoes effectively. Today, Mary Janes are a popular style of shoe for women and girls alike, and their history can be traced back to these early bar shoes.

Mary Janes were originally designed as a shoe for children, but they quickly gained popularity among young women in the 1920s and 1930s. Throughout the 20th century, Mary Janes remained a popular shoe choice.

They were frequently paired with flapper dresses in the 1920s and in 1934, Shirley Temple wore white Mary Janes in the movie "Baby Takes a Bow". In the 1960s, designer Mary Quant put model Twiggy in a pair, making them a fashion staple for women as well as children.

However, the popularity of Mary Janes peaked in the 90s when Courtney Love wore them, subverting the look of the 60s and making a plea for self and gender equality. Mary Jane has been a popular name for the past 30 years. It has gone through different waves of popularity, from the time of the Queen of England to the present day, where it is associated with Beyonce. These are just a few fun fashion facts about Mary Janes, a shoe that has stood the test of time.

Stop by Boger's Shoes today to pick out your very own pair of Mary Jane shoes.

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Ingrown Toenails: What They Are and How to Kick the Pain to the Curb

September 10, 2025

Ingrown toenails are a common foot issue that can cause pain, swelling, and even infection if not treated properly. Whether you're dealing with one for the first time or looking to prevent future problems, understanding how they develop and how to care for them can make a big difference. What Is an Ingrown Toenail? An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of your toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This usually affects the big toe but can happen to any toenail. The result is often redness, pain, and sometimes infection. Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails Several factors can contribute to the development of an ingrown toenail, including: Improper Nail Trimming : Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. Tight Footwear : Shoes that squeeze the toes can put pressure on the nails, forcing them into the skin. Injury : Stubbing your toe or other trauma can lead to nail growth problems. Genetics : Some people inherit the tendency for curved or thick nails. Poor Foot Hygiene : Not keeping feet clean and dry can lead to nail issues, including ingrown toenails. Signs and Symptoms Tenderness or pain along one or both sides of the toenail Redness and swelling around the nail Pus or other signs of infection Warmth around the toe If symptoms worsen or don’t improve, medical attention may be necessary. How to Care for an Ingrown Toenail Mild cases of ingrown toenails can often be managed at home with proper care. 1. Soak Your Foot Soaking the foot in warm water for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times a day, helps reduce swelling and softens the nail and skin. Optional : Add Epsom salt to the water for extra relief. 2. Gently Lift the Nail After soaking, try to gently lift the edge of the nail using a clean piece of cotton or dental floss. This can help separate the nail from the skin and guide proper growth. Change the cotton/floss daily. 3. Apply Antibiotic Ointment Use an over-the-counter antibiotic cream to prevent infection. Cover the toe with a sterile bandage after applying. 4. Wear Comfortable Shoes Choose open-toed or loose-fitting shoes to avoid putting pressure on the toenail while it heals. 5. Avoid Cutting the Nail Further Trimming the nail might seem helpful, but cutting it too short can make the problem worse. Let it grow out a bit before reshaping it carefully. You should consult a healthcare provider if: The ingrown toenail shows signs of infection (pus, redness, increased pain) You have diabetes or poor circulation Home treatment doesn't improve the condition in a few days You experience recurring ingrown toenails A doctor might perform a minor procedure to remove part of the nail or prescribe antibiotics if there’s an infection. Preventing Ingrown Toenails Trim Nails Properly : Cut straight across, not too short, and avoid rounding the edges. Wear Proper Footwear : Make sure your shoes fit well and provide enough room for your toes. Keep Feet Clean and Dry : Good foot hygiene can prevent a variety of nail problems. Protect Your Feet : Be cautious during sports and other activities that might cause toe injury. Ingrown toenails can be painful, but with the right care and attention, most cases resolve without complications. By understanding what causes them and how to treat and prevent them, you can keep your feet healthy and pain-free. If you're ever unsure or dealing with persistent symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek professional care.