Is it a water shoe? Is it a hiking boot? A sneaker? No, it’s Alaïa’s latest cult-favorite runway shoe. Actually, that pair is long sold out, but you may be able to find the mesh flats cut in a ballerina style with a mary jane strap across the foot on a resale site—if you’re willing to pay top dollar. Somewhere between gorp and ballet-core lies the mesh flat, the latest polarizing trend to take the fashion world by storm. And if you’re still pining after the Alaïas, don’t fret. There are a number of designers offering some chic variety of mesh footwear in their collections at the moment.
The Row first experimented with these see-through shoes in their slingbacks, later in the form of their “Sock” shoe. Bottega Veneta’s debuted chain-embellished square-toe mesh heels in their Pre-Fall ‘19 runway collection. Other brands have adopted the style ranging from Khaite’s “Marcy” flat to Le Monde Beryl’s “Luna” slipper to Loeffler Randall’s “Leonie” ballerina. And you can see the polarizing style on the feet of stylish adopters like Jenny Walton, Brittany Bathgate, and Daisy Hoppen, who have all put a surprisingly chic effect on the shoe that is undoubtedly utilitarian in essence. If we’ve convinced you of their style value, then shop the ahead styles of mesh footwear available on the market. But act fast and remember: one man’s water shoe is another’s ballet flat.
Leonie Crystal Mesh Ballerina Flats
Loeffler Randall offers a more affordable rendition of the polarizing style—this time with a little sparkle in the form of crystal embellishment.
Beryl Luna Slipper Red Mesh
For a dainty option, we love Le Monde Beryl’s “Luna” slipper. And we’re particularly partial to the red colorway.
Balla Mesh Flats
Dear Frances embraced a classic ballerina silhouette for their black mesh flats for the minimalists in the room.
Sock Shoe
The Row’s “Sock” shoe is the paramount mesh flat. If you’re going to invest, this is where we suggest doing so.
Marcy Crystal-Embellished Mesh Flats
Khaite’s crystal-embellished flats are a great pair of statement flats to indulge in this summer. Pair yours with anything from jean shorts to white trousers.
Mesh-knit Loafers
Nanushka embraced a more utilitarian approach to the flats with a slightly thicker mesh. But the slinky silhouette and pull tab keep the overall feel more dainty.
Antonia in Gold Leather
Andrea Gomez’s “Antonia” flats mix oxfords into the silhouette cocktail. This is the perfect version of the trend to embrace for fall.
Stretch Ballerina Flat
Bottega Veneta’s flat rendition of their chain-embellished mesh footwear is another buy-now-wear-forever investment. They might even look best with jeans and a white T-shirt.
Tremaine Mesh Ballerina Shoes
We love the cap-toe detailing of Piferi’s mesh ballerina’s—the nude elastic strap completes the ballet mood.