When timeless style meets uncompromising craftsmanship, magic happens. For Fall 2025, Mestiza New York joins forces with SantM, the customer favorite shoe brand redefining the Mary Jane flat, to create three exclusive colorways designed to pair perfectly with Mestiza’s feminine, modern silhouettes. In this conversation, Mestiza founders Alessandra LoVerde and Louisa Rechter sit down with SantM founder Min Santandrea to talk inspiration, design philosophy, and the art of creating pieces you’ll love (and live in) for years to come.

A Conversation with Min Santandrea, Founder of SantM

What inspired the iconic Mary Jane flats that SantM is known for, and how do you see them fitting into today’s fall fashion trends?

The Mary Janes style has been around for decades but I think we updated the shape to be more classic and chic.  It is the new flat that will never go out of style.  

What is unique about the craftsmanship and materials used in SantM’s Mary Jane flats for this collection? 

We use all organic materials for the upper and the rubber is recycled.  We don’t use any glue in our construction because glue is really bad for your feet. First, glue limits flexibility in the sole thus counter ergonomic.  Glue prevents “breathing.” You have 250,000 sweat glands per foot and release 1.2 cups of sweat per day so you want your feet to breathe.  As a default our shoes are washable and vegan because we don’t use any glue.  

How do you see these Mary Janes elevating a woman’s fall wardrobe?

The colors are so rich and beautiful.  Also, when someone is comfortable, she is more confident.  What is more elevating than a woman beautifully dressed walking with confidence.

What styling tips would you give for wearing these Mary Jane flats with pieces from the Mestiza Fall Collection?

Have fun!  I love wearing them with those beautiful sparkly or sheer socks.

What does this collaboration mean to you personally as a designer and brand founder?

1 + 1 = endless creativity.  To work with like minded brands is a dream come true.  It makes you think and create differently and better.

What sparked the idea for SantM to collaborate with Mestiza on a shoe collection, and why are you excited to partner with them?

I met the ladies of Mestiza at a trunk show and we hit it off. We loved each other’s brands and 9 months later, here we are!!!!

A Conversation with Alessandra LoVerde & Louisa Rechter, Co-Founders of Mestiza New York

How do the custom Sant M Mary Jane flats reflect Mestiza’s Fall 2025 color palette and design vision?

(Alessandra) The SantM x Mestiza Mary Jane flats come in three rich custom shades: acqua, sage green, and deep burgundy, all of which tie directly back to our Fall 2025 collection. Each color was selected to both complement the season’s palette and stand beautifully on its own. 

Why do you feel the Mary Jane is the perfect shoe style to pair with Mestiza’s dresses and separates? 

(Louisa) The Mary Jane is timeless yet versatile just like Mestiza. SantM’s rich texture gives your look a polished feel, great for more formal outings yet one can also wear it casually, giving your look a sense of charm and ease.

How would you style the SantM x Mestiza Mary Janes for different fall occasions—from work events to weekends? 

(Alessandra) I love how versatile the SantM x Mestiza Mary Janes are, they work for just about any fall occasion. For the office, I’d pair them with our Blake Crop Pants and Soho Knit Top for an easy, comfortable look that still feels pulled together. On weekends, I love them with the Loverde Mini Dress or Ainslee Mini for an effortless brunch outfit. And for an evening out, they’re perfect with our Aniston or Pippa dresses, adding a fun, unexpected twist to cocktail dressing.

Pair the SantM x Mestiza New York Mary Jane's with the Soho Knit Top and Blake Pants (coming soon!) from Mestiza New York's Fall 2025 Collection

What details in this collaboration make it stand out from other fashion partnerships? 

(Louisa) This collaboration blends two brands united by a love of timeless style and thoughtful design. Mestiza’s romantic, elevated pieces meet SantM’s signature Mary Janes, crafted with impeccable quality and polish. Every detail, from the color palette to the proportions, was designed so the shoes and clothing complement each other beautifully, resulting in a fresh and versatile pairing, taking the guesswork out of putting together an outfit. 

How do these Mary Jane flats reflect Mestiza’s ethos of timeless, versatile, and statement-making fashion? 

(Alessandra) Mestiza’s ethos has always been rooted in creating pieces that transcend trends, pieces designed to be cherished for years. The SantM Mary Janes embody this spirit with their timeless silhouette, versatile colors, and beautiful craftsmanship. They work across seasons, can be dressed up or down, and always have that element of distinction that sparks conversation. Like all Mestiza pieces, they’re made to be more than just beautiful. They’re meant to be lived in, loved, and remembered.

What are your must-have outfits from the Fall Collection to pair with each Mary Jane colorway?

(Louisa) I love Mary Jane’s with effortless midi looks for strolling around the city with your oversized handbag and chic sunglasses.  I like teasing out one of the colors in our Marbled Soho top and Demo Knit skirt set and pairing it with one of the SantM x Mestiza color ways - the sage is gorgeous with it!