Why Everyone’s Suddenly Wearing Mesh Ballet Flats

6 months ago

Ballerinas just got breezier

This post may contain affiliate links. Learn more

We’re no stranger to a sheer fashion moment – but never did we think it would become such a hit in the realm of footwear. But, with mesh ballet flats now an official SS24 staple, we can’t see the movement going away anytime soon.

The Country & Town House Responsible Buyers’ Guide

The Mesh Ballet Flats Movement, Explained

Think back to The Row’s pre-fall 2024 runway show; this was the moment we would witness the rebirth of the jelly sandal, but not as we might have expected. The Olsen Twins’ take consisted of jellified cage flats, peeking out from underneath the hems of tailored trousers and maxi skirts – and while it was branded a ‘sandal’, the ballet flat fans among us quickly took notice.

And then came French label Alaïa, which gave us the design we recognise today: a sheer exterior, comprised of dainty leather netting, with a slim, buttoned-up strap crossing over the top. And so, the mesh ballet flat was born.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Steve Madden (@stevemadden)

But, really, the current craze for the trend all started with Jennifer Lawrence. The star has had a streak of viral streetstyle moments over the last few months – we’re still thinking about her quiet luxury-approved Totême trench from earlier this year – but none have hit quite as hard as the pair of mesh ballet flats on her feet. Lawrence has been spotted on numerous occasions walking around New York City wearing her signature Alaïa flats, teamed up with a slouchy pair of jeans and a basic white t-shirt.

Since then, the A-list seal of approval has also been given by the likes of Dakota Johnson, Sofia Richie and Jennifer Lopez. They’ve quite quickly convinced us that the mesh ballet flat is the go-to dress-up-dress-down shoe; whether worn with casual denim or a slinky slip dress, we can see these shoes working for pretty much any occasion.

Alongside a classic pair of Alaïa’s, you can find mesh ballet flats having a moment with the likes of Steve Madden, Miu Miu, Reformation and Stine Goya – although we’re sure it won’t be long before a whole slew of brands put their own spin on the trend.