Let’s talk about the footwear causing quite the stir this season: mesh shoes. Yes, those see-through, barely-there creations have fashion enthusiasts divided into passionate camps of love and hate.
And no, these are not the jelly shoes of your youth.
I first noticed them popping up on runways last fall, but now they’ve infiltrated boutiques and department stores everywhere. And let me tell you, people have OPINIONS. Our managing editor, Alissa Harb, wore a pair at the Panama City Beach UNwineD festival a few weeks ago. Her friend also wore a pair, and they were suddenly double trouble — people could not stop staring and asking questions.
“I cannot overstate the reaction to these shoes at the festival and around town,” says Alissa. “That weekend, these shoes were LOVED by women and men … but we had to wonder if this was a fluke.” She wanted to pose the question to a larger audience, so she conducted an Instagram poll.
Love or hate?
According to the poll, it was 85% hate.
Don’t worry, I’ve rounded up nine options — just a few scrolls away — so you can decide which side you stand on.
These shoes will predictably cause a commotion, with expressions ranging from fascination to horror.
Here’s the thing about mesh shoes – they’re undeniably practical for the warmer months. They’re lightweight, breathable, and prevent that dreaded summer foot sweat (you know what I’m talking about). But practicality doesn’t automatically translate to style points.
The design world has embraced this transparency trend wholeheartedly, giving us everything from barely-there mesh flats that whisper “I’m sophisticated but edgy” to chunky mesh platforms screaming “LOOK AT ME!” Some designers have incorporated delicate embroidery or strategic opacity panels, while others have gone full exhibitionist with crystal-clear meshes that hide absolutely nothing.
Speaking of hiding absolutely nothing, I wear closed-toe shoes in the summer to hide my need for a pedicure. With these shoes, that need is on full display.
No, they are not for everyone. And some people will forever view them as fashion’s equivalent of a bad joke.  But that’s precisely why they’re worthy of discussion. Fashion that provokes is part of the fun. Fashion that makes us question our preconceptions about what looks good is why fashion is also an art.
If you’re brave enough to try the trend, I’ve curated a selection of mesh options below, ranging from subtly stylish to outrageously bold. Remember, confidence is your best accessory when sporting these conversation-starters.Â
But are they even cute? That’s the million-dollar question that you must answer for yourself. If you decide they are, be prepared for strangers to stare at your feet and comment; it comes with the territory.
Here are nine mesh shoe options to tempt you, or dare you.
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So, what do you think?
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