Sheerness is the hottest thing in fashion right nowâand the best mesh ballet flats are taking the see-through look to a chic new level. The shoe trend kicked off in earnest last year, when pricey pieces from high-end brands like Khaite, Alaïa, and The Row went mega-viral. But now, thanks to copycats and new spins by everyone from Amazon to Zara, the breezy ballet flats are even more popular as summer 2025 inches closer. We can hardly scroll through Instagram without seeing a pair.
Thatâs not to say theyâre over, though. Mesh flats are poised to be bigger than ever for the season ahead, if the street style weâve been seeing is any indication. Itâs the perfect time to give this playful summer fashion trend a goâand weâve got plenty of thoughts on how to make it work, plus which pairs you need in your closet this season. Shop our editorsâ favorite finds below.
Glamourâs mesh flats trend wish list
Best mesh flats
Dainty and just a bit cheeky, mesh flats are a great place to start if youâre brand-new to the trend. Whether you go strapless or opt to combine two trends with Mary Janes, switching up the usual leather or satin adds a distinctly feminine edge to any outfit. Thankfully, thereâs a color option for every wardrobe and moodâand itâs so easy to catch a breeze.
Best woven flats
Alaïaâs 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 theyâre still hard to come by, thereâs an entire ecosystem of woven ballet flats to explore: Youâll find lookalike pairs around every corner, while braided leather takes from Madewell and Amazon push the look in a chic new direction.
Best jelly mesh flats
Jelly sandals are officially back, and we couldnât be more excited. Unlike the ones you wore back in elementary school, todayâs options are way more elevated. Some take the form of Mary Janes; others are based on those flats from The Row that brought jellies back last summer; still others make the perfect seaside mules. If you prefer your mesh with a heaping of nostalgia, this is the way to go.
Best mesh espadrilles
Combining one of summerâs most classic silhouettes with trendy mesh results in some very cute shoes you didnât know you needed. Mesh espadrilles bring the beach wherever you go, whether youâre actually on vacation or youâre just daydreaming of one. Paired with a billowing button-down and denim shorts for an easygoing weekend look.
How to style mesh 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 thatâs perfect for low-key occasions like brunch. You can also elevate the ensemble with trendy jewelry, such as sculptural statement earrings. If itâs getting a little chilly, add a light trench coat on top.
When youâre going a little more dressy, pair mesh Mary Janes with a summer dress in a trendy, feminine shade like sky blue or butter yellow. 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, youâll probably prefer plain mesh. If youâre a little more adventurous, on the other hand, try a pair thatâs embroidered, woven from leather, or adorned with crystals or pearls; youâll find plenty of options thatâll make you stand out from the crowd.