Sporty, Slightly Unattractive, and Already Spotted on Elsa Hosk: The Season's First Viral Flats Have Emerged
As summer nears its end, the popularity of crochet, woven, and mesh flats is expected to continue gaining momentum into the next season. In fact, we already have information on the specific pair that will be widely worn or at least discussed and added to wish lists this fall: Alaïa is the brand behind it. After the buzz surrounding the Alaïa mesh Mary Jane flats, the label returns with an even newer design, which we anticipate will achieve similar best-seller status. Like the original style, the new flats feature a fishnet material, but their Velcro slip-on design provides a sportier vibe reminiscent of the water shoes we used as kids at the beach. These designer water shoes are beginning to appear in key tastemaker wardrobes, including that of Elsa Hosk, who showcased them during her vacation in the English countryside, pairing them with a light white maxi skirt. We've also spotted them on Arielle Charnas in New York City's Upper East Side and at Copenhagen Fashion Week, all of which are strong signs of an emerging fashion staple. Given that we haven't seen a pair of "ugly" shoes trend in some time, this season may signal the comeback of controversial footwear within the fashion industry, and we're betting that water shoe-inspired flats will take the spotlight. Check out how fashion insiders are styling the Alaïa water shoes and shop for similar options from The Row, Christopher Esber, Mango, Reformation, and others.
**How Insiders Are Styling the Viral Flats**
**Shop the Alaïa Fishnet Flats**
- Alaïa Fishnet Slip-On Shoes
- Alaïa Flex Leather-Trimmed Mesh Ballet Flats
- Alaïa Fishnet Thong Sandals
- Alaïa Flex Mesh Thong Sandals
- Alaïa Patent Leather-Trimmed Fishnet Mules
**Explore More Water Shoes**
- *Tory Burch Patos Mesh Flats*: Tory Burch brings a sculptural twist to the water-shoe aesthetic.
- *Christopher Esber Mesh Water Flats*: This is a go-to for fashion enthusiasts vacationing in places like Ibiza and Hydra.
- *Loro Piana Floaty Fishnet Ballet Flats*: A future must-have for Sofia Richie—no doubt about it.
- *TOTEME Crochet-Knit Flats*: The crochet texture adds an elegant touch to this pair.
- *The Row Sock Mesh Flats*: Ahead of their time, yet still incredibly relevant.
- *Reformation Britt Ballet Flat*: More attractive than "ugly," fitting perfectly into this trend.
- *ALOHAS Gill Mesh Ballet Flat*: The drawstring cord details are appealing here.
- *ME+EM Asymmetric Mesh Slipper*
- *Proenza Schouler Tee Perforated Ballet Flat*: Designed to resemble mesh but made from leather—brilliant.
- *VIVAIA Square-Toe V-Cut Flats*: This brand receives high praise for comfort.
- *Mansur Gavriel Open Weave Ballet Flat*: This color choice is always a winner.
- *House of Harlow 1960 X Revolve Clay Flat*: These flats rise higher on the foot, making them suitable for this trend.
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Sporty, Slightly Unattractive, and Already Spotted on Elsa Hosk: The Season's First Viral Flats Have Emerged
Get ready to encounter them everywhere.
