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Before You Buy Mesh Flats, Meet the Softer, Cooler Shoe Trend Taking Over Summer

Before You Buy Mesh Flats, Meet the Softer, Cooler Shoe Trend Taking Over Summer

Summer footwear is getting a crafty makeover this season with crochet flats stealing the spotlight from their mesh counterparts.

These handcrafted-looking shoes combine breathability with artisanal charm, making them perfect for warm weather without sacrificing style.

If you’re looking to update your summer shoe collection, these 12 crochet flats offer comfort, character, and a touch of nostalgia that mesh versions simply can’t match.

1. Hvóya Merezhyvni Cotton Flats

Crafted from breathable cotton threads, Hvóya’s Merezhyvni flats blend traditional craftsmanship with modern design sensibilities. The intricate pattern allows for excellent airflow while maintaining a structured shape that won’t lose form throughout summer wear.

The cushioned insole provides unexpected comfort for such delicate-looking footwear. Available in natural ecru and soft pastels, these flats pair effortlessly with linen dresses or casual denim.

A hidden elastic at the heel ensures a secure fit without pinching – something many crochet shoes miss the mark on. Each pair showcases slight variations, highlighting their artisanal quality.

2. Magda Butrym Crochet Ballet Flat

Polish designer Magda Butrym brings her romantic aesthetic to these exquisite crochet flats. Handcrafted using fine mercerized cotton thread, these showcase an intricate floral pattern that references vintage European needlework traditions.

Tiny pearl embellishments adorn the upper, catching light with every step and elevating these beyond everyday flats. The leather lining and sole provide luxury-level comfort and longevity, justifying the investment price point.

Perfect for summer weddings or special occasions, these flats offer the comfort of flat footwear with the specialness of a statement shoe. The cream and pale pink colorways particularly complement summer bridal events, while the black option works year-round for evening affairs.

3. TOTEME Knitted Ballet Flats

Scandinavian luxury brand TOTEME brings its signature minimalism to these sophisticated knitted ballet flats. Unlike typical crochet patterns, these feature a tighter, more refined knit that creates a sleek silhouette without sacrificing the airy quality crochet lovers crave.

The monochromatic design comes in versatile neutrals – black, cream, and camel – making them incredibly easy to style. Round toes and a barely-there bow detail add classic ballet flat charm with modern restraint.

Memory foam footbeds make these surprisingly supportive for all-day city adventures. Fashion insiders particularly love pairing these with wide-leg trousers for an effortless high-low mix.

4. ZARA Crochet Ballet Flats

Fashion-forward without breaking the bank, ZARA’s crochet ballet flats bring this summer trend to the masses. The open weave pattern creates a see-through effect that’s perfect for showcasing cute pedicures or colorful socks for transitional weather.

Available in both neutral tones and bolder hues like cornflower blue and coral, these flats add a playful touch to any outfit. The rubber sole provides more durability than you might expect from such delicate-looking footwear.

A slightly squared toe gives these an on-trend silhouette that sets them apart from typical ballet flats. The cotton-blend material feels soft against bare feet while still maintaining structure throughout daily wear.

5. BIMBA Y LOLA Crochet Ballerina

Spanish brand BIMBA Y LOLA brings playful energy to the crochet trend with these statement-making ballerinas. Bold color-blocking and contrasting trim elevate these beyond basic summer shoes into conversation-starting accessories.

The slightly chunky crochet pattern uses mercerized cotton for extra durability and sheen. A rubber cap on the toe adds unexpected protection against scuffs – a thoughtful detail for preserving these artisanal beauties.

The brand’s signature quirky aesthetic shines through in unexpected color combinations like lavender with orange trim or navy with bright yellow accents. These shoes perfectly embody the joyful Spanish approach to fashion while remaining genuinely comfortable for summer strolls.

6. Jeffrey Campbell Figure Eight Crochet Flats

Known for bold footwear, Jeffrey Campbell reinvents vintage crochet shoes with these eye-catching Figure Eight flats. The distinctive figure-eight pattern creates a gorgeous texture that catches light beautifully while providing surprising structural integrity.

A leather sole and lightly padded footbed elevate these beyond typical crochet shoes into proper everyday footwear. The slightly elongated toe and minimal vamp create a flattering silhouette that lengthens the leg.

Available in both muted tones and vibrant colors, these flats work equally well with casual weekend outfits or summer wedding guest attire. Fashion enthusiasts appreciate how these reference 1960s crochet footwear while feeling thoroughly modern.

7. Staud Alba Ballet Flats

LA-based brand Staud brings its cult-favorite aesthetic to summer footwear with these refined Alba ballet flats. The tight, uniform crochet pattern offers a more sophisticated take on the trend, creating an almost woven appearance that maintains its shape beautifully.

A leather cap toe adds structural integrity and visual interest, while a padded insole ensures comfort that lasts from morning meetings to evening drinks. The color palette skews sophisticated – think espresso brown, navy, and cream – making these ideal for office-to-weekend versatility.

Fashion editors particularly love these paired with cropped trousers or midi skirts for a polished summer look. The shallow cut vamp creates a leg-lengthening effect that flatters all foot shapes.

8. MANGO Soft Mesh Shoes

Spanish fast-fashion brand MANGO offers these budget-friendly mesh shoes that capture the essence of the crochet trend without the handcrafted price tag. The synthetic mesh mimics crochet patterns while offering machine-washable convenience – a practical perk for summer footwear.

The sleek silhouette features a pointed toe that dresses up casual outfits effortlessly. Available in both neutrals and bold colors like fuchsia and turquoise, these affordable flats let you experiment with the trend before investing in pricier versions.

Memory foam insoles make these surprisingly comfortable for all-day wear. Fashion-conscious shoppers appreciate how these capture the airy, textured look of crochet while maintaining structure and shape better than some authentic crochet options.

9. Hvóya Chaotic Ballerinas

For the fashion risk-taker, Hvóya’s Chaotic Ballerinas deliver on their name with a deliberately unstructured crochet pattern that appears beautifully random. Multiple thread weights and textures create dimensional interest rarely seen in footwear.

Despite their artistic appearance, these flats feature a surprisingly practical design with a reinforced heel counter and cushioned footbed. The multicolored thread work makes these a versatile statement piece that pulls together various colors in your outfit.

Limited production runs mean each design variation is relatively exclusive. Fashion enthusiasts particularly appreciate how these photographable shoes instantly elevate simple outfits like white button-downs and jeans into social media-worthy looks.

10. J.Crew Square-Toe Crochet Ballet Flats

J.Crew combines its preppy heritage with current trends in these charming square-toe crochet flats. The moderately open weave pattern provides breathability while maintaining a classic silhouette that works with everything from chino shorts to summer dresses.

Available in versatile neutrals and seasonal colors like cornflower blue and tangerine, these flats add personality to summer basics. The rubber-injected sole provides unexpected durability and water resistance – perfect for spontaneous summer sprinkler runs or beach walks.

A small ribbon detail at the heel adds a feminine touch without being overly precious. These have quickly become a weekend favorite among the brunch crowd who want comfortable yet Instagram-worthy footwear for summer socializing.

11. ALAÏA Crochet Ballet Flats: Heritage Luxury for Discerning Collectors

Legendary fashion house ALAÏA brings its signature craftsmanship to these investment-worthy crochet ballet flats. Drawing on the late Azzedine Alaïa’s Tunisian heritage and expertise with intricate textiles, these showcase a proprietary crochet technique that’s instantly recognizable to fashion connoisseurs.

The densely worked pattern creates a leather-like durability while maintaining breathability. Meticulously hand-finished edges and a leather sole with the house’s signature laser-cut pattern elevate these beyond typical summer shoes into wearable art.

Available primarily in black and nude, these timeless flats will remain stylish long after seasonal trends fade. Collectors appreciate how these reference the house’s iconic 1990s footwear while feeling thoroughly contemporary.