The Trendy Flat Shoes People Who Just Aren't Into Sandals Are Wearing With Jeans and Skirts Instead
Suddenly, white mesh ballet flats are in all of the chicest summer outfits. Discover the growing shoe trend below.


Last night, as I slipped off the strappy sandals I'd been living in all season, I noticed something unexpected—a sharp tan line etched in the exact silhouette of my go-to pair. It was practically a stamp of overuse. That was the moment I knew: it’s time to broaden my summer shoe horizons. Despite a season full of exciting footwear trends, I’d been stuck in a sandal rut, overlooking all the fresh styles surrounding me. Not anymore. I'm set on mixing things up, starting with the chicest contender of the moment: white mesh ballet flats.
From London to Florence to Paris, this elegant shoe has quickly become the style set’s favourite switch-up. Polished yet playful, white mesh ballet flats add a lightness that emulates sandals to summer outfits, without the heightened risk of blisters (is it just me that fears a multi-strap sandal?). I’ve spotted them paired with everything from breezy dresses to slouchy jeans, stepping in where flip-flops or chunky sliders once reigned.
Although mesh ballet flats have been gaining momentum for a few seasons, this summer’s take in crisp, optic white feels like a breath of fresh air, offering a lighter, breezier alternative to chunkier footwear. The translucent mesh gives an airy look and, much like a sandal, won't let your foot overheat, while the white finish adds a sharp, clean contrast that makes summer styling feel more directional.
If, like me, you're ready to retire your overworked sandals and try something new, consider this your sign. Scroll on to shop the white mesh ballet flats trend.
Shop White Mesh Ballet Flats:

Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer and has worked in the fashion industry since she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of the Arts London. Natalie’s experience in the industry spans journalistic and styling roles that have seen her work for publications including British Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Reporting on a daily basis, Natalie focuses on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.
-
Better Than Ballet Flats (and Loafers): The Shoe Trend It Girls in NYC and Paris Will Be Wearing This Fall
They're classic but fresh at the same time.
-
Back to School: 5 Collegiate Shoe Trends That'll Be Everywhere This Fall
-
Sorry to My Classic Black Shoes, But This Printed Shoe Trend Is Defining Fall 2025
Spotted on fashion people in Venice, NYC, and Copenhagen.
-
I Live in Murray Hill—Here Are the 8 Places I Like to Shop for a Fashionable Fall Closet
Stylish sweaters and suedes ahead.
-
These 32 Chic Zara Fall 2025 Shoe Finds Are the Key to Looking Like a Fashion Person—Good Luck Picking Just One Pair
Prepare for endless compliments.
-
The 6 Shoe Trends Well-Dressed People Are Wearing With Pants and Jeans (Instead of Sneakers)
Flat and heels to pair with pants and jeans.
-
Say Goodbye to Kitten Heels—This Even-Shorter Shoe Is Suddenly Showing Up in Every Fashion Person's Closet
It has just the right amount of height to make you stand a little taller.
-
Ballet Flats Look Downright Dated in the Face of These 7 New Flat-Shoe Trends
Someone had to say it.