How are we feeling about mesh flats? Khaite and Alaia were early leaders, but the look has taken off; it has been a big street style trend this year, and you know it’s sticky when J. Crew offers its own take. I was circumspect for a long time and then Courtney Grow (wearing two different pairs in this Instagram carousel) said something to the effect of: “Don’t blame me when, in six months, you NEED the mesh shoes that are now sold out,” and I could tell she was forecasting truth! Not for the faint of heart, but very cool — c.f. Jenny Walton if you need proof!
I’m personally contemplating this pair from Loeffler Randall (more sizes available for preorder here). Loeffler has a magical touch with trends, making them feel more feminine and attainable. In the case of these sheer flats, I feel as though the rhinestones make the mesh feel a bit less…pulp fashion? Borderline goth? Edgy? than other variations I’ve seen. But all my top picks for getting the look below.
01. KHAITE // 02. LOEFFLER RANDALL // 03. MANGO // 04. LE MONDE BERYL // 05. SANDY LIANG //
06. J. CREW
If true mesh is too intense or out there, walk it back with a woven style. A few I absolutely love…
01. ALAIA // 02. LOEFFLER RANDALL // 03. MARGAUX // 04. LE MONDE BERYL // 05. STEVE MADDEN
Two other flat footwear trends to contemplate: denim (!) and satin (!). I frankly want all of these trends in my closet! For denim flats, I love these from Larroude, these from Porte & Paire, and these from Veronica Beard. For satin…
01. MIU MIU // 02. J. CREW // 03. ZARA // 04. MANOLO // 05. ZARA
My major styling tip for any of these shoes — from mesh to satin — is to dress them down. This is a look that thrives on friction and intentionality. I would pair any/all of these with trendy denim, like these Citizens, a denim shirtdress, like this Tibi or this Aligne, or a denim midi/maxi skirt.
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I will probably be eating my words in six months, but I can’t seem to get behind this trend! If I want a flat that exposes my toe, I’d just do a sandal. Maybe I’m weird about feet and that’s not why I’m buying into this yet… we’ll see. I also fear that they won’t work outside of late spring/summer/early fall because of inclement weather/cold. What do you think, Jen?
Agree! Highly impractical. Also wouldn’t try this if you are doing a lot of city walking — when I first spotted the trend being worn in Manhattan, my stomach churned thinking about it. Yuck! BUT. This trend is not practical and not for the faint of heart AND I find it chic?!
xx