We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
Mesh ballet flats are set to dominate this summer, and they actually make a great investment
The sheer ballerina is only building in popularity. Here, we round up our favourite styles from Alaïa, The Row, Dear Frances and more
Move over the naked dress, it’s all about the naked shoe this year. While the resurgence of the ballet flat seemed almost inevitable (as do so many trends that have not, in fact, been left in the Noughties), this recent obsession with a sheer take on the style was something that nobody saw coming. The shoe was first seen last summer, and quickly became the fashion lover’s favourite, rivalling the fisherman's sandal as the shoe of the year. Now, it's set to be even bigger in 2024.
Favoured by the likes of Jennifer Lawrence and Sofia Richie, the mesh flat quickly rose to cult status. According to Lyst's Year in Fashion report, searches increased 56 per cent last February and sheer shoes ranked 7th on The Lyst Index’s hottest products in the second quarter of 2023.
Alaïa's fishnet Mary-Jane ballet pump hit the headlines more than any other, worn by Lawrence and beloved by influencers, including the designer Jeanette Madsen. Meanwhile, Dear Frances' white Balla Mesh style was just as popular; the London-based footwear brand has had to restock several times after the likes of Camille Charriere, Pixie Geldof and Danielle Bernstein were seen wearing them. The Row, Miu Miu, Bottega Veneta, Nensi Dojaka and Khaite also bet big on the unlikely trend with unique options, from embellished to embroidered.
What makes them so popular? "Ballerinas have been a key shoe in recent seasons and the mesh style offers a unique and sophisticated update," explains Jane Frances, founder of Dear Frances. "It is delicate and feminine yet also feels sharp and modern."
With spring on the horizon once again, the mesh trend is set to become even more widespread, with a host of designers and high-street retailers jumping on the ballerina bandwagon. The mesh offers a point of difference and a modern update to such a classic style. Less obvious than a solid leather flat, and dressy enough to wear to evening events, a gauzy, delicate flat can be styled with everything from dresses to jeans – and comes with a welcome comfort factor to boot.
Ready to add a pair to your wardrobe? Below, we round up our favourite styles.
Best mesh ballet flats to buy now
Dear Frances
Our go-to brand for beautifully made shoes with a modern point of difference, Dear Frances has delivered the most dazzling mesh flat of the season. A new take on the original Balla design, this ultra-luxe iteration is studded all-over with glinting crystals. Available in both black and white, they're ideal for wedding guests and brides alike.
Shoes, £450, Dear Frances at 24S
Alaïa
After selling out swiftly last summer, Alaïa's cult fishnet flats are now back in stock in a range of sizes. If you missed out the first time round, don't delay.
Shoes, £650, Alaïa at Mytheresa
Mango
The high-street hit of the season, these lacy flats from Mango's elevated Selection line are as elegant as they are subversive.
Shoes, £49.99, Mango
The Row
For more of a full sock style, look to The Row's black mesh iteration, which will go with everything in your wardrobe.
Shoes, £600, The Row at MyTheresa
Le Monde Beryl
Another great Mary-Jane option, this one is from Le Monde Beryl. We would pair these with everything from denim jeans to office wear.
Shoe, £390, Le Monde Beryl at Mytheresa
& Other Stories
Keep it simple in this cream style from & Other Stories, which has a chic leather trim and rounded toe.
Shoes, £110, & Other Stories
Gucci
You can't beat a bit of Gucci glitz, which is why we love this particular style featuring a slingback and beautiful beading, and would be just as dressy as any pair of heels.
Shoes, £700, Gucci at Net-a-Porter
Loeffler Randall
If you are after something with a little more impact, we recommend Loeffler Randall's baby blue pumps, which have been embellished with crystals.
Shoes, £232, Loeffler Randall
Bottega Veneta
A predictably chic take on the ballet flat from Bottega, featuring a fishnet finish and a gold anklet detail.
Shoes, £860, Bottega Veneta
Miu Miu
Miu Miu has given some real sparkle to its mesh ballet pump with plenty of crystal embellishments.
Shoes, £1,250, Miu Miu at MyTheresa
Magda Butrym
Magda Butrym has put a super ladylike spin on the mesh ballet flat by adding a beautiful floral embroidery to the design.
Shoes, £766, Magda Butrym at MyTheresa
Anthropologie
Add a pop of pink to your spring wardrobe with Anthropologie's affordable option.
Shoes, £98, Anthropologie
