There's No Doubt About It—These "Controversial" Flats Have Officially Reached Cult Status

As editors, we constantly survey the moving trends to ensure that you're up to date with all the latest fashion news. The funny thing about the fashion world is that most of the time we're working ahead, so normally we have a pretty good idea about what trends will appear in the next six months. But, occasionally, a new trend appears that is completely unexpected, and I'll be honest, I never expected the mesh shoe trend to take off like it has in recent seasons.

Celebrities and influencers alike have been testing out the new flat-shoe trend, and with each image, I'm growing more convinced of their chic prowess. Take a look at Jennifer Lawrence, who stepped out in a pared-back ensemble that epitomises quiet luxury through the simple pairing of a white tee, black crossbody bag, blue jeans, and of course, mesh shoes, from none other than Alaïa.

When new trends seemingly appear out of nowhere, they're generally a metamorphosis of an existing must-have style that has developed into the latest iteration. Of course, ballet flats have been back on fashion's radar for the last couple of years, and the mesh shoe trend seems to be an evolution on this. Designer brands like Khaite, Alaïa and The Row have all been toying with the trend and have released early mesh versions; some embellished, some pure and simple. Since these designs arrived, there's been a slow and steady rise of styles appearing across more mid-range independent brands like Dear Frances and Loeffler Randall too. To start with, I can't deny the whole WWWUK team were a little taken aback by this controversial, toe-baring trend, but we can now officially say we've retracted our initial reservations and (most of us) have been fully won over by the surprisingly delicate and refined look that a sheer shoe shoe can add to an outfit.

Those of us with tighter budgets who still love to try a trend and have been waiting patiently for a high street alternative, you'll be pleased to hear that they have arrived in swathes. Across Mango, COS, Zara, & Other Stories, the new season trend is finally available at our favourite high street brands.

They may not be the most practical of shoes (they're not ideal for the rain, after all!). But for those of us who are ready to jump in feet first, keep scrolling to shop the mesh shoes we're loving this season.

Shop the Mesh Shoe Trend