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Mesh ballet flats remain the hottest footwear for spring/summer for another year running. The shoe trend kicked off in earnest in 2024, when premium buys from luxury brands like Khaite, Alaïa, and The Row went mega-viral. Now? They're still very much a runway-fave, with brands like Loewe and Stella McCartney joining in on the fun, and a high-street must. Seriously: I can hardly scroll through Instagram without seeing a pair.
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Fashion trainers and loafers are the predictable spring footwear of choice, as everyone knows, but dare I say it, mesh shoes are coming for their crown. Three's a trend, folks, and this season marks it.
The mesh shoe trend is poised to be bigger than ever for 2026, and with jelly and woven/crochet iterations making a mark, it’s the perfect time to give the playful trend a go and get plenty of wear. Luckily, I’ve got countless thoughts on how to make them work, plus which pairs you need on your shoe rack this season…
Best mesh flats
The OG style that captured everyone's attention. They're sheer (think 10-denier sheer), but they're cool. And if you don't like getting your toes out in a pair of sandals, these offer a more modest way around it. Whether you go strapless or opt to combine two trends via a pair of Mary Janes, switching up the usual leather or satin on your ballet flats adds a distinctly feminine edge to any outfit.
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Save when you shop for the best mesh ballet flats with these Arket discount codes at checkout.
Best woven flats & crochet 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 slightly easier to come by these days, there’s an entire ecosystem of woven ballet flats to explore if you need something more affordable.
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Save when you shop for the best mesh ballet flats with these Net-A-Porter discount codes at checkout.
Best jelly mesh flats
Jelly sandals are officially back, and I couldn’t be more excited. Unlike the ones you wore back in elementary school, today’s 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.
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Save when you shop for the best mesh ballet flats with these Marks & Spencer discount codes at checkout.
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 that’s perfect for low-key occasions like brunch. You can also elevate the ensemble with trendy jewellery, such as sculptural statement earrings. If it’s getting a little chilly, add a light trench coat 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. Take things in a more polished, office-ready direction with tailored trousers, a white button-down, a structured blazer, and minimal jewellery.
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.
This article originally featured on Glamour US but has since been adapted.
