Mesh ballet pumps and see-through flats have become unlikely footwear heroes among the fashion set, beloved for their unusual appeal. Unlike regular ballerinas, which have also taken prime position on the catwalks in recent seasons, these semi-sheer styles are gossamer thin, ensuring breathability – the ultimate warm-weather selling point.
Jennifer Lawrence has become the unofficial poster-girl of the trend, having invested in The Row’s Ozzy slippers, which Vogue has called “non-shoes” thanks to their barely-there silhouette, and Alaïa’s bestselling fishnet flats. The latter have claimed cult status, and can be found in the wardrobes of many a fashion insider – and have repeatedly sold out. “The moment I saw them, I was in love!” says British Vogue’s fashion editor Eniola Dare, who was an early fan of the label’s divisive, hosiery-esque flats.
.JPG)
“As well as it being super comfy, they can literally be worn with anything,” she continues. Eniola’s styling tip? Daytime calls for simple tailoring or jeans, while for the evening, she likes to wear them with a maxi dress or co-ords. Elsewhere, Khaite’s delicate Marcy pumps and Bottega Veneta’s Atomic flats are equally versatile, while bright-red Mary Janes from Proenza Schouler will add a flourish of colour to a simple outfit.
More daring dressers, meanwhile, have gravitated towards the glassy pumps debuted at Jonathan Anderson’s spring/summer 2023 show, Valentino’s vertiginous PVC heels and Amina Muaddi’s transparent wedges. Like the “naked dress” trend, “naked shoes” can be ranked on a scale of extremity, so it’s up to you how much you wish to bare.
Shop the best mesh ballet flats
