Mesh shoes, resembling socks fashioned from cling film, are literally everywhere. The mesh flat trend is a culmination of two of this year’s biggest trends: sheer clothing and ballet flats. The trend, which started percolating a few seasons ago, is now taking over with more styles available at every price point. The sight of toes subtly showing through mesh or fishnet is delicate and a tad eccentric. However, mesh ballet flats are also empowering, freeing women from the constraints of the conventional high-heel pumps typically worn to project a sensual image.
- Sandy Liang remade her popular Mary Jane in mesh (available in black or pink), showcasing her new appearance with an Instagram shot of a mesh shoe on her left foot.
- The Row is offering a style that encapsulates the foot entirely, like a chic invisible sock basking in its moment of glory.
- Christopher Esber’s almost out-of-stock Minette flat is designed like a net, charmingly ensnaring the toes in a flurry of crystal adornments.
- Bottega Veneta’s version appears to be a pair of fishnet stockings with everything above the ankle meticulously chopped off.
- Alaïa’s version, also crafted from fishnet, includes a buckled strap draped across the top and is just as elusive as their studded counterparts.
All these shoes are designed to harbour toes while still offering them a peek-a-boo moment.
Over the past two years, Margiela’s split-toe Tabi transitioned from niche to mainstream. During Fashion Week last September, the Row featured models wearing lace cocktail dresses and long leather opera gloves with basic leather thong flip-flops. At Miu Miu’s most recent show, the stretch Nappa thong boot attracted attention for its peculiarity and potential heralding of the unexpected resurgence of the peep-toe boot.
Even with the proliferation of “no free feet pics” jokes online, we seem to have gradually embraced just that on our Instagram feeds. Bare toes aren’t just commonplace. They’re the moment!
However, unlike the Tabi or the flip-flop, the mesh shoe trend isn’t something that has seen multiple waves of popularity. Except for a brief appearance on the Row’s runway in 2019, they seem like a novelty that could have emerged only in 2023, amidst the peak of the toe acceptance. Designers like Rick Owens and Dilara Findikoglu have shown that there isn’t a single, definitive way to define beauty or sensuality and that confidence in one’s uniqueness is often the most attractive quality.
From being showcased by high-end brands to being flaunted by fashion influencers, these see-through shoes are becoming a major statement. Here’s a recap of the main style choices under this trend:
Minimal Mesh Flats
This style provides a less grand version of the ballet flat, ideal for anyone who prefers a less fussy look. They can be paired with any outfit that you’d usually wear with ballet flats.
Leather Ballet Mesh Flats
These Mary Jane-style flats provide a charming look with a twist. Made of black leather and fishnet fabric, they add a cool, edgy vibe to even the most basic outfit.
Mesh Flats with Ankle Straps
Perfect for those wanting to project a bohemian vibe. These shoes work well for vacations, sightseeing, or other culturally-rich activities.
Mesh Booties
These fall under the category of block heels but are low enough to feel like flats. They are a great way to engage in the quirky sock trend.
Featured image ©instagram/sandyliang, other images ©blancamiro, ©limelightnova, ©honeybelleworld
