If flip-flops aren’t your thing, let me introduce you to the summer shoe trend that stylish dressers come back to every summer. Offering the breezy comfort of an open sandal with the practicality of a closed-toe shoe, mesh ballet flats are, in my opinion, one of the chicest alternatives to flip-flops this season.

Stepping out in New York, Anne Hathaway wore the trend with a pair of navy wide-leg trousers. Whilst flip-flops might have felt a little too casual against the weight of the tailored trousers, Hathaway’s mesh ballet flats brought balance to the look, creating a polished finish without sacrificing comfort.

Where flip-flops can sometimes feel a little insubstantial for city dressing, mesh flats offer a little more coverage and protection without feeling heavy. Their perforated finish keeps them breathable during warmer weather, whilst adding texture that elevates summer outfits.

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Although Anne’s look caught my attention, it’s far from the only place I’ve been spotting the trend. Across Europe, some of the chicest dressers have been styling mesh ballet flats with jeans, knee-length skirts, as well as, of course, this season’s favourite light cotton dresses.

If flip-flops aren’t for you, this is the summer shoe trend I’d recommend investing in instead. Inspired? Keep scrolling to shop my edit of the best mesh ballet flats to buy now.

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