Sneakers have always been the most-worn shoe in my travel wardrobe, whether at home in New York City or exploring somewhere new. While they’re often the most practical option for walking, they aren’t always the cutest or most breathable. This summer, I’ve been finding myself gravitating towards a new shoe trend instead.
Mesh ballet flats are just as versatile and comfortable as sneakers, with one major advantage: Their airy design, which generally involves a netted look with mesh underneath, allows your feet to breathe. I first noticed their presence on the stylish streets of NYC earlier this summer and have been reaching for Journee Collection’s Casha Mary Jane Flats ever since. Gigi Hadid was even recently spotted wearing similar white fishnet flats by Alaïa.
In addition to being breathable, mesh ballet flats add instant style to any outfit. As a frequent traveler, versatility is one of the most important factors in deciding which shoes to bring on a trip. I’ve already worn my flats with everything from denim shorts and a white tee to linen dresses. Plus, they take up less suitcase space than sneakers. If you’re looking for a shoe that combines style and function for your next getaway, read on for my top mesh ballet flat picks.
Comfortable Mesh Ballet Flats
Journee Casha Mesh Mary Jane Flats
Journee Collection
These dainty flats are lightweight and breathable, but still offer support to keep your foot comfortable while walking. They have a cushioned bottom and an adjustable strap that holds your foot in place. It’s no wonder they’ve been on heavy rotation in my wardrobe this summer. Whether I’m wandering around New York City during a heatwave or getting dressed up for a nicer dinner, I constantly find myself reaching for these mesh ballet flats.
I opted for the black colorway because it feels like the perfect combination of feminine and edgy, but these shoes come in five styles total. Plus, they’re currently marked down to just $52, making now the best time to try them.
Travel + Leisure
Doeyg Buckle-strap Mesh Ballet Flats
Amazon
A shoe that’s classic but still statement-making, these mesh Doeyg flats are finished with bold gold hardware. (But they also come in 10 other colorways if you prefer a simple shoe.) I would pack them for a cool European getaway. “These shoes look amazing right out of the box—sleek, well-made, and very on-trend,” said one shopper, adding, “I was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable they are, even after wearing them for hours.”
Dolce Vita Rodni Mary Jane Flats
Nordstrom
Dolce Vita is one of my go-to brands for comfortable ballet flats. This mesh Mary Jane style has a flattering square toe and chic leather piping. Shoppers note that they run small, which makes these a great option for anyone with narrow feet. Perhaps my favorite detail about these flats is the colorways they come in: ‘Light tan’ and ‘creme’ are match-everything neutrals, but they’re also offered in red or blue if you’re looking to add more color to your travel outfits.
Sam Edelman Michaela Shine Mary Jane Flats
Nordstrom
After a long day of sightseeing, I don’t always want to put on high heels for dinner or a night out. These mesh flats from Sam Edelman are adorned with rhinestones and have a small heel, so they can be paired with dressier outfits for evenings in a new city. “These shoes feel so well-made, and the mesh makes them feel like Cinderella’s glass slippers,” said one shopper. Another called them “a dream for traveling,” adding that they are “super lightweight and compact, so they don’t take up much space in my suitcase.”
Aerosoles Palma Flats
Nordstrom Rack
In my shoe collection, I consider gold a neutral. These metallic mesh ballet flats are versatile enough to match jeans, dresses, and trousers, while still making a statement—though they’re also available in four other colorways, ranging from white to orange. For added comfort, they have Aerosoles’ signature ortholite foam insole and arch support. Plus, they are made to be flexible, which makes them easier to pack
Wnshonzy Mesh Ballet Flats
Amazon
Want to feel more secure in your ballet flats? This style at Amazon features an adjustable ankle strap so you won’t have to worry about stepping out of them during walking-heavy days. “They are lightweight, great quality, and easy to travel with,” raved one shopper. With seven different hues to choose from, there’s bound to be a style you love.
Birdies Hummingbird Mary Jane Flats
Birdies
Okay, I’ll admit it—I’ve already added a second pair of mesh flats to my collection. I’ve always been a fan of raffia shoes, but they tend to be scratchy and uncomfortable. These Mary Jane-style flats from Birdies have a mesh upper so the raffia doesn’t directly touch your foot and won’t cause blisters. I walked 13,000 steps in them through Madrid on a 100-degree day, and my feet still felt great at the end of the day. Birdies’ signature quilted footbed provides thicker cushioning than some sneakers I’ve owned, and truly made me feel like I was walking on a cloud.
Cushionaire Studded Mesh Ballet Flats
Amazon
Black flats are a timeless addition to any wardrobe, and this bejeweled mesh style adds a fun flair. The elastic strap gives these flats the flexibility to move with you, no matter how long you’re on your feet. And for less than $50, we won’t blame you for grabbing a pair for yourself and a friend to match.
Free People Mesh Mania Bow Flats
Free People
I feel most like myself when I add feminine touches to my outfits, which is why I’m currently lusting over these pretty Free People flats. They pair a big bow with delicate mesh for an on-trend but still versatile ballet flat. Plus, these flats come in fun colors such as red and lavender for the ultimate girly-girl travel shoe. They’re lightweight enough to slip into a carry-on, yet stylish enough to dress up everything from jeans to sundresses, making them the kind of shoe you’ll reach for again and again.
Rothy’s Max Buckle Mary Jane Flats
Zappos
These Mary Jane-style flats from Rothy’s are made with a perforated mesh upper, so they’re bound to keep your feet cool on a hot day. Gold hardware, thick buckles with grommets, and a V shape give them a cool-girl look. Constructed with heel-to-toe cushioning, they will keep your feet comfortable and supported on even a long walking tour.
Vivaia Margot 2.0 Square-toe V-cut Mesh Flats
Vivaia
Vivaia is known for combining sneaker-like comfort with trendy footwear—and these comfy mesh flats are no different. You’ll be able to walk miles in them thanks to a padded insole with arch and heel support. These flats are also machine washable, which will come in handy after you reach for them on every day of your next trip. Plus, they’re made from recycled plastic bottles, so they’re a shoe you can feel good about wearing.
Steve Madden Alara Floral Mesh Flats
Zappos
Just when I thought I couldn’t be more obsessed with the mesh ballet flat trend, I discovered this style. These nude Mary Jane flats are covered in the prettiest embroidered flowers. While patterned shoes may seem intimidating at first, they’re easier to style than you might think. Just choose an outfit in one of the colors in the flowers—and when in doubt, you can never go wrong pairing them with a white dress.
Abercrombie & Fitch Mesh Balletic Flats
Abercrombie & Fitch
The ultimate neutral shoe, these almond-toe ballet flats have all-over mesh and a slight heel. Reviewers say they’re sturdy and comfortable thanks to the padded insole. “These flats are so comfortable and don’t slip off,” raved one shopper. They’re basically an elevated slipper that you can wear out.
AE Raffia Mesh Mary Jane Flats
American Eagle
A more budget-friendly raffia option, these mesh flats have a woven upper in either bone or tan. They add a coastal touch to any outfit, making them ideal for end-of-summer trips. A braided strap is the perfect finishing touch to these Mary Jane flats, completing their effortless, beachy vibe.
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