Sheerness is the hottest thing in fashion right now — and the best mesh ballet flats are taking the see-through look to a chic new level. The shoe trend kicked off in earnest last year, when premium buys from luxury brands like Khaite, Alaïa, and The Row went mega-viral. But now, thanks to copycats and new spins by everyone from Arket to Zara, the breezy ballet flats are even more popular. Seriously: we can hardly scroll through Instagram without seeing a pair.
That’s not to say they’re over, though. The mesh shoe trend is poised to be bigger than ever for the season ahead, if the street style we’ve been seeing is any indication. It’s the perfect time to give the playful trend a go and still get plenty of wear. Luckily, we’ve got countless of thoughts on how to make it work, plus which pairs you need on your shoe rack this season. Shop our editors’ favourite finds below.
GLAMOUR’s mesh flats trend wish list:
Best mesh flats
Dainty and just a bit cheeky, mesh flats are a great place to start if you’re brand-new to the trend. Whether you go strapless or opt to combine two trends with Mary Janes, switching up the usual leather or satin adds a distinctly feminine edge to any outfit. Thankfully, there’s a colour option for every wardrobe and mood — and it’s so easy to catch a breeze.
Best woven flats
Alaïa’s fishnet ballet flats have become perhaps the most visible example of the mesh trend, popping up on an endless list of celebrities and editors. While they’re still hard to come by, there’s an entire ecosystem of woven ballet flats to explore: you’ll find lookalike pairs around every corner, while braided leather takes from COS and Mango push the look in a chic new direction.
Best jelly mesh flats
Jelly sandals are officially back, and we couldn’t be more excited. Unlike the ones you wore back in elementary school, today’s options are way more elevated. Some take the form of Mary Janes; others are based on those flats from The Row that brought jellies back last summer; still others make the perfect seaside mules. If you prefer your mesh with a heaping of nostalgia, this is the way to go.
How to style mesh flats
While it might seem tough to get the styling right, you probably already own everything you need to turn a look. Pair mesh ballet flats with wide-leg jeans, a white T-shirt, and slim black sunglasses for a casual, laid-back outfit that’s perfect for low-key occasions like brunch. You can also elevate the ensemble with trendy jewellery, such as sculptural statement earrings. If it’s getting a little chilly, add a light trench coat on top.
When you’re going a little more dressy, pair mesh Mary Janes with a summer dress in a trendy, feminine shade like sky blue or butter yellow. Take things in a more polished, office-ready direction with tailored trousers, a white button-down, a structured blazer, and minimal jewellery.
You should pick a pair that complements your personal style. If you love a traditional ballet flat, you’ll probably prefer plain mesh. If you’re a little more adventurous, on the other hand, try a pair that’s embroidered, woven from leather, or adorned with crystals or pearls; you’ll find plenty of options that’ll make you stand out from the crowd.