When the mesh shoe trend started picking up steam in the summer of 2024, I wasn't a fan. I shrugged it off and assumed it would be a micro-trend that would quickly hit its peak and then eventually fall out of existence, making room for another controversial shoe trend to take its place. Lo and behold, a whole year later, the trend is still kicking. It's not easy for me to admit when I'm wrong but—I was wrong. Mesh flats are here to stay.
Last year, the style was synonymous with The Row and Alaïa, but this time, there's an increased variety in options to covet on the market. The see-through shoe is now offered in punchy prints and colors and designed with a silhouette for any individual's preference. (Trust me, they even have made a mesh flat sneaker!) Let's not forget the additional embellishments and fabrications. You can find a baby-pink mesh mule at COS, a hardware-adorned pair from Tory Burch that could double as artwork, and a woven style from Madewell that's meant to be brought on a summer vacation.
I originally wasn't on board with the style, because I thought it lacked versatility in the wardrobe, but I'm now realizing how much of a wardrobe staple the shoe actually is in the summer. And as someone who prefers not to wear sandals but feels like her regular footwear feels bulky in the summer, I think I've found my perfect match. I've yet to make the purchase, but if you're in the same boat as me, keep scrolling to see the top-rated mesh flats on the market currently. They are a lot, but these are the best of the best.
It actually was Loeffler Randall that convinced me to give mesh flats a try, not The Row. This pair was the one, to be exact! It just makes the ballet-flat style feels much more appropriate for summer.
Some people may find this shoe incredibly weird, but those who get it, get it.
It's just as good in black. Tory Burch knows how to make a great shoe!
A combination of my favorite S/S 25 trends in one.
Most jelly flats end up looking incredibly similar, but the open back on this one makes it stand out. Also, they're easier to slide off so function over everything!
This vivid hue was made for the summer.
If you're looking to test out the trend for yourself, H&M has got you covered with an affordable option to gauge whether you truly like the mesh style on you.
Dare I say, the OGs that started it all?
COS had mesh cobalt-blue mules that sold out immediately, but these baby-pink ones are still available. I predict that won't be for long.
These are a great more affordable alternative to the Loeffler Randall or Mansur Gavriel pair!
Madewell's Mary Jane flat is a tried-and-true shoe style, and I'm always thrilled when the brand releases it in a trendier fabrication.
I never ended up purchasing a pair of Miu Miu ballet flats, but these, on the other hand, I'm really considering. This olive green is the perfect pop of color that still feels like a neutral.
Party in a shoe!
Gap's jelly flip-flops are already out of stock, and I predict the same fate for these flats.
Just the smallest hint of silver. It makes the perfect subtle statement.
Picnic date, anyone?
Many mesh flats feel delicate and dainty, but the buckle on this one adds an edgier touch.
Khaite has a wide assortment of mesh shoes, but this one still reigns as my favorite.
Taking my love for woven bags a step further with a woven mesh shoe.
Leave it to Mango to always make a version that's both affordable and fun.
I couldn't possibly curate a mesh-shoe roundup with the king of all mesh flats.
This deep rust color is gorgeous.
There's no such thing as too much leopard.
Can someone do the really odd yet incredibly cool thing and make these their wedding shoes?