Ah, mesh footwear trend. Started end of 2018 when industry favorite Bottega Veneta presented its see-through product stretch push-ups in the Pre-Fall 2019 collection (under the supervision of former artistic director Daniel Lee). Then flat silhouettes appeared, on their way to The Row sock-like versionand Alaïa followed suit in 2022 with the now famed brand fishing net iteration. The polished but slightly polarizing style undoubtedly officially peaked last summer, with almost every IT girl posting mesh flats from luxury designers and indie labels on their Instagram feeds. And the trend, which is actually quite uncomplicated to wear, is gaining momentum again as summer quickly approaches.
Is it any wonder that these striking shoes have remained on the fashion scene for so long? Not for a stylist living in Up-to-date York Dion Davis, which works with brands such as Agmes, The RealReal and Another Tomorrow. “It’s a refreshing approach to ballerina-style shoes, but a bit less conspicuous,” says the TZR expert, also mentioning the buzz around balletcore. She’s right: this silhouette still gives off the same sweet, feminine vibe without looking like you just finished a dance rehearsal.
But we won’t beat around the bush: for some, revealing the world through a see-through apartment can seem daunting, even polarizing. So if you’re on the fence about trying these babies, Davis offers a styling idea: “In summer, try them with long, baggy trousers in linen or cotton poplin,” she notes. “Having a little bit of mesh look really elegant.” Alternatively, if you’re into the burgeoning shorts trend, Davis says the shoe also looks great with sassy pants.
Keep scrolling to learn five ways to wear your fashionable look, as highlighted by content creators.
Cozy and charming
Mesh flats can instantly complement a casual hoodie and straight-leg jeans combo—especially if the shoe is painted a glowing fiery red, like the Proenza Schouler style below (which has the Davis stamp of approval). To further enhance the look, take a expansive leather bag with you.
A bit preppy
If you’re in the preppy fashion era, start your outfit with a button-down top, like this baby blue Polo Ralph Lauren. If you’re looking for a cold styling idea, combine stirrup leggings with mesh shoes. Finally, put the fabric headband on. Although subtle, this accessory really makes a difference, as shown above.
Color Splash
Break up your head-to-toe black outfit with a colorful flat – think green, blue or purple. All eyes will be on your striking shoes, so be sure to schedule a pedicure in advance (an added bonus if you choose a matching shade of nail polish).
Everything in the details
Bold stripes! Girly ruffles! This band is maximalism at its best. However, if you want to tone it down a bit, opt for a translucent white flat style (somehow the aforementioned The Row style is still available).
Brief story
Take it from Davis: see-through shoes and shorts are a sartorial match made in heaven. To balance out this skin-baring duo, layer a breezy button-down sweatshirt over a fitted ribbed tank. There are only a few accessories left – a chic leather bag and shiny jewelry are a perfect choice.
