Mesh Well with Summer

How to weave breathable mesh shoes into your seasonal wardrobe

Trending now... | Jul 5, 2024

The mesh ballet flat was the unlikely beau of the Spring/Summer 2023 shows a little while back, with Alaïa leading the charge with its initially polarising pump. Now, the so-called “naked shoe” is the breathable staple tiptoeing its way into many of our summer wardrobes.

Rendered in open-weave netting and gossamer-thin fabric – formerly reserved for techy trainers – and embellished with sequins, buckles, ankle ties and beading, the mesh shoe is a practical solution to breezy summer strolling.

Fashion behemoths like Bottega Veneta, Valentino Garavani and Manolo Blahnik have imagined the mesh shoe, merging the fabric with bold accents – like polka dots, neon colours and metallic finishes. Khaite’s viral version was punctured with diamante studs, while The Row recently revived its superfine mesh flat in candy-coloured rubber netting (yep, jelly shoes are back too apparently).

Independent London-based brand IZIE, lifts the trend off flat ground and applies the same sheer sensibility to its signature towering mules, fit with sculptural heels and geometric-cut toes, fitting for an al fresco summer’s eve.

Even though slipping into a mesh shoe might require a pristine pedicure, its appeal lies in its chic versatility and comfort.