Mesh Ballet Flats Will Be Everywhere This Summer—Here’s How I Style Mine

Sheerness is the hottest thing in fashion right now—and the best mesh ballet flats are taking the see-through look to a new level. It’s the latest shoe trend to come for our feeds; after high-end brands like Khaite, Alaïa, and The Row showed the breezy ballet flats a few seasons ago, A-listers, including Jennifer Lawrence and Dakota Johnson, jumped on board. Now, we can hardly scroll through Instagram without seeing a pair.

That’s not to say they’re over, though. Mesh flats are poised to be bigger than ever for summer 2024, if the street style from Fashion Month is any indication. Brands from Miu Miu to Steve Madden are offering the shoes at every price point, meaning the look is finally on an even playing field. It’s the perfect time to give this playful summer fashion trend a go. And we’ve got thoughts on how to make it work, plus the pairs you need in your closet this season.

Our favorite mesh ballet flats

• The Everday Pair: Loeffler Randall ​​Landon Soft Ballet Flats, $150
• The Affordable Pair: The Drop Pepper Ballet Flats, $45
• The Mary Janes: J.Crew Quinn Mary Jane Ballet Flats, $138
• The Designer Pair: Gucci GG Slingback Ballet Flats, $990
• The Alaïa Dupes: Doeyg Mesh Ballet Flats, $60
• The Bracelet Pair: Mango Ballerinas with Mesh Bracelet, $80
• The Sparkly Pair: Sam Edelman Michaela Shine Mary Jane Flats, $160
• The Leather Pair: Madewell Greta Ballet Flats, $148

Best mesh ballet flats

Dainty and just a bit cheeky, classic mesh flats are a great place to start if you’re brand new to the trend. Whether you go strapless or opt for Mary Janes, switching up the usual leather or satin adds a distinctly feminine edge to any outfit. Thankfully, there’s a color option for every wardrobe and mood.

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Best woven ballet 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 hard to come by right now, there’s an entire ecosystem of woven flats to explore: Amazon and Steve Madden offer lookalike pairs, while Mango and J.Crew stock the trendy bracelet sandal silhouette.

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Best embellished mesh ballet flats

Inspired by Khaite and other designer labels, seemingly every brand now offers mesh flats studded with crystals, pearls, and embroidered accents. If you’re the type to make a statement with your ensembles, these high-drama pairs are perfect for your summer shoe rotation.

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How mesh ballet flats feel

“Despite their humble origins as house shoes, mesh ballet flats are just as sophisticated as they are relaxed,” says Glamour commerce producer Leilani McQuay. “I own a fishnet pair from SourceUnknown (similar to the Alaïa ones seemingly every celebrity has), and they’ve quickly become my go-tos. As long as there’s no precipitation in the forecast, they’re surprisingly great for all-season wear; I’ve worn mine with tights and leg warmers in the winter and miniskirts in spring.”

“Of course, they’re especially ideal for warmer weather, when your feet need all the fresh air they can get,” she continues. “They’re incredibly lightweight, making my feet feel so free and easy to move around. I will admit that after a full day of wearing them, I often notice a bit of discomfort in the arch of my foot—these shoes are indeed flats. But hey, even with that, I’m still head over heels for a good mesh ballet; they’re more interesting than leather or satin, and I love that they’re just a bit revealing while still offering coverage.”

How to style mesh ballet 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 statement jewelry, such as chunky gold earrings. If it’s getting a little chilly, add a light trench coat or bomber jacket 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. Keep the romantic vibes going with bow accessories in your hair—it’ll be the school uniform you always wished you could wear. Take things in a more polished, office-ready direction with tailored trousers, a white button-down, a structured blazer, and minimal jewelry.

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.