ahthe mesh footwear trend. This trend began in late 2018 when industry darling Bottega Veneta introduced see-through stretch pumps in its Pre-Fall 2019 collection (created by former creative director Daniel Lee). The flat silhouette then appeared as a sock-like version at The Row, and Alaïa followed suit with its now-famous fishnet version in 2022. The sophisticated yet somewhat polarizing style arguably officially peaked last summer, with nearly every It girl posting mesh flats from luxury designers and indie labels on their Instagram feeds. And now, with summer fast approaching, this trend, which is actually super wearable, is picking up steam again.
Is it any surprise that such a statement shoe has remained popular on the fashion scene for so long? Dione Davis, a New York-based stylist who works with brands like Agmes, The RealReal, and Another Tomorrow, doesn’t think so. “It’s a fresh take on a ballerina-style shoe that’s not as flashy,” the expert tells TZR, while also touching on the balletcore trend. She’s right: the silhouette exudes a sweet, feminine vibe without making you look like you just came out of dance rehearsal.
But we won’t sugar coat it: Baring your toes in see-through flats can be a bit daunting and controversial for some. So if you’re hesitant to wear them, Davis has some styling ideas. “Try pairing them with long, flowy trousers in linen or cotton poplin in summer,” she says. “A little bit of mesh showing through can be really chic.” Or, if you’re interested in getting into the burgeoning shorts trend, Davis says the shoes would also work well with sexy bottoms.
Scroll through to see five ways content creators can rock the buzz look.
Cozy and cute
Mesh flats instantly elevate a casual hoodie and straight-leg jeans combo—even better if your shoes are a vibrant, fiery red, like this Proenza Schouler style (Davis-approved) below. For an extra style boost, tote around a roomy leather carryall.
A little preppy
If you’re in the preppy era, start your look with a button-down top, like this baby blue one from Polo Ralph Lauren. Next, pair it with stirrup leggings and mesh shoes for a cool styling idea. Finally, accessorize with a fabric headband. Though subtle, as we saw above, this accessory makes all the difference.
Color Splash
Pair your head-to-toe black outfit with colorful flats in colors like green, blue, or purple. Your bright shoes will draw all eyes, so be sure to schedule a pedicure beforehand (plus bonus points if they match your nail polish).
Attention to detail
Bold stripes! Girly ruffles! This ensemble is the height of maximalism. But if you want to keep it a bit more toned down, opt for a pair of translucent white flats (for some reason, The Row’s aforementioned style is still available).
Short Story
Davis is right: see-through shoes and hot pants are a match made in heaven. To balance out this skin-baring combo, layer a fitted ribbed tank top with a cool button-down. All you need to do is add a few accessories: a stylish leather bag and shiny jewelry are our picks.
