Ballet flats are wildly popular right now, but the most coveted shoe of the season in particular is the mesh flat. If you’re familiar with the trend, you’ve most likely seen brands like Bottega Veneta and The Row showcasing sheer shoes on the runway, and/or A-list celebrities including Jennifer Lawrence and Sofia Richie Grainge sporting the style on the go. Tapping into the trend, more brands than ever are offering their takes on the unexpected statement footwear for spring and summer, with the likes of Mango and Reformation creating wearable styles for the warmer months. If you’re intimidated, know that you can style the sheer shoes in a range of ways with items you most likely already have in your wardrobe—and we’ve got you covered with inspiration. Read on to learn all about the trend and see 13 pairs of mesh ballet flats to shop now, complete with styling tips.
About the Trend
Mesh flats have taken the footwear world by storm, with the reason for their sudden popularity being fairly simple: Mesh ballet flats are a visually interesting take on a classic style, finding a way to incorporate the ongoing sheer trend into comfortable footwear. Unlike high heels, mesh flats have a more wearable, understated profile and are easy to dress up or down, depending on the occasion and your personal tastes. Sheer shoes will also keep your feet cool all summer with an easy, breezy feel.
Ballet flats overall are trending due to their comfortable nature and Y2K feel, and brands have created countless irresistible styles for us to choose from. And while those who aren’t used to the sight of mesh flats might be unsure of what to think about them, it’s just one of the many “ugly” shoe trends circulating right now, from orthopedic dad sneakers to elevated Birkenstock-inspired styles from the likes of Chanel and Prada. While jumping into the mesh flats trend full-on might necessitate some extra attention to your pedicure, we think it can be totally worth it and are welcoming the daring footwear choice with open arms. Read on for 12 of our favorite pairs of mesh ballet flats, with style and color options to fit every preference and budget.
The Best Mesh Flats to Shop
Floral Frenzy
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Khaite The Marcy Flat $950.00
Khaite’s Marcy flat, which debuted on the label’s spring 2023 runway, reimagines the classic ballerina flat for modern times. Featuring a stunning mesh material paired with purple floral embroidery, this style is a quintessential addition to a spring wardrobe.
Pastel Pink
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By Anthropologie Mesh Ballet Flats $150.00
Add a pop of color to your look with Anthropologie’s pink mesh flats, which play into the balletcore aesthetic. Designed with a rubber sole for exceptional comfort, these shoes are ready for all-day wear.
Mesh Mary Jane
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Zou Xou Eugenia Flat in Indigo Mesh $268.00
If you prefer to stick to darker colors even in the warmer months, some mesh Mary Janes may be just what you need to give your style a summery twist. Pair them with wide leg trousers and your favorite tee for an effortlessly chic look.
Standout Studs
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Jessica Rich Alea Flat $215.00
One of the biggest footwear trends of the season is mesh flats featuring studs or crystals: Khaite, Christopher Esber, and Alaia all offer iconic takes on the glitzy style. We’re loving this pair from Jessica Rich, featuring a classic almond silhouette with silver studs and a breathable mesh fabric.
Metallic Mesh
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Le Monde Beryl Mesh Mary Jane Ballerina Flats $520.00
Take a walk on the wild side with these metallic mesh flats by Le Monde Beryl. Silver jewelry is having a major moment, so we love the idea of taking the trend one step further with a pair of silver mesh shoes.
Embroidered Mules
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Allegra K Pointed Toe Floral Embroidery Mules $61.00 $46.00
We had to include a pair of flat mules in the mix for variety’s sake, plus you can’t go wrong with the price of these mesh beauties. White lace with delicate floral embroidery makes for a great everyday spring or summer slide. Style the shoes from day to night by pairing them with a midi dress and a blazer for a great transitional look.
Sock Shoe
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The Row Sock Shoe $690.00
Quiet luxury takes on a whole new meaning when it comes to The Row’s sock shoe. Perhaps the most iconic of the mesh flats on our list, the minimalist, slip-on style is a cult favorite among it-girls. It’s available in both black and nude for all your neutral needs.
Playful Fishnets
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Mango Ballerinas with Mesh Bracelet $80.00
If you’re like me, the word “fishnet” probably sparks flashbacks to the tights and going-out tops of the early 2000s and indie sleaze eras, but we can assure you that one thing is not like the other. Mango’s fishnet flats, featuring a rounded toe, are a summer dream, and the ankle bracelet detail adds a delicate touch. Pair these with a mini skirt and a blouse for an understated yet on-trend outfit.
Lavender Haze
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3.1 Phillip Lim ID Mesh Ballerina Shoes $395.00
In honor of the release of The Tortured Poets Department, it’s only fitting to include a Taylor Swift reference—after all, the musician references a lilac short skirt in her new song “imgonnagetyouback.” This 3.1 Phillip Lim design, in mesh with purple leather trim, pairs well with white denim on a warm spring day.
Bedazzled
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Dear Frances Balla Crystals $730.00
This season, it’s time to swap out your stilettos for bedazzled party flats so you can dance all night long. Dress to impress in sheer Italian mesh finished with leather trim. This style from Dear Frances is available in eight colors, with both crystal and crystal-free options.
Ruby Red Slippers
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Dolce Vita Cadel Ballet Flats $115.00
Scarlet red took over in recent seasons (especially for shoes), and there’s no denying that the bright trend is continuing to dominate this spring. Add a pop of color to your wardrobe with a ruby red slipper that’s sure to turn heads.
Sporty Chic
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Bottega Veneta Atomic Ballerina $790.00
If you’re looking for a sporty style to wear as an everyday shoe, look no further. This lightweight knit ballet flat feels like a second skin and is on trend with one of summer’s biggest styles: crochet.
Bring the Drama
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Aminah Abdul Jillil Bow Flat $578.00
If you can’t get enough of the bow revival, these flats bring a mesh material together with an oversized ribboned ankle detail for a statement that hits upon two trends in one. Pair it with your favorite spring dress to lean into the coquette of it all, or allow the piece to be the most fanciful part of an all-black outfit.
