Everybody’s Wearing Mesh Ballet Flats
For 2025, everyone’s favorite ballet flats come crafted in cool mesh, says GEORGIE LUCAS
Elegant, comfortable, eminently versatile – alongside a trusty blazer, great denim and a button-down shirt, ballet flats are firmly on the list of capsule-wardrobe essentials that you’ll wear for years to come. If you’ve been paying close attention over the past few seasons, you’re sure to have spotted many well-heeled women wearing a more directional riff of this dependable design: enter the mesh ballet flat. Like its classic leather sibling, the mesh ballet flat is truly versatile; elevating denim, pairing beautifully with tailoring, and the perfect finish for an easy-breezy summer dress.
Alaïa kick-started things back in 2022 with its sell-out fishnet ballet flats and have since served up several different takes on the design – and this black suede cut-out pair is a case in point: perforated with the brand’s signature ‘Vienne’ motif, with a thick buckle strap, they’ll work as well with wide-legged jeans as a tailored dress. Alternatively, for something with a touch of color, try Khaite’s buzzy ‘Marcy’ design: the minimal ballet shape is cut in supple mesh, then reimagined with studding and embroidery – here, tiny red flowers make a subtle statement.
These days, Le Monde Béryl is a key footwear name to know. Founded in London, the brand’s carefully designed styles are handcrafted in Italy. This woven leather Mary Jane version of the traditional ballet silhouette is crafted in crisp white, and makes for a refreshing finishing touch to summer tailoring and maxi dresses. Alternatively, tap into the SS25 trend for red accessories and slip on the brand’s ‘Regency’ style; also woven in leather, they look chic with crisp denim or your favorite neutral linen layers.
When it comes to events, flats deliver crucial comfort as well as elegance. For megawatt engagements, look first to Aquazzura: the Florentine house excels at crafting refined, evening-ready footwear. This chic ‘Juliette’ design balances classic design with a contemporary appeal, trimmed in velvet, with the brand’s signature polished metal heels. They will work with everything, from your trusty LBD to a floor-sweeping evening gown.
Much is made of day-to-night dressing, and Gucci’s horsebit-detailed flats illustrate the concept perfectly. The timeless ballet shape will find a home in your workwear wardrobe (office-ready summer shoes can be a particular pain point, so major points here), while the hardware and detailing will transition neatly to a post-work dinner. Elsewhere in our edit, Ancient Greek Sandals’ ‘Aerati’ flats are woven in neutral raffia, then trimmed in camel leather. Pack them for your next vacation as a versatile, space-saving shoe.