Transparency has been a sweeping trend across the fashion industry in 2023. Now, that also includes shoes — and literally so, as sheer styles in mesh, lace and clear fabrications have soared in popularity throughout the year.
“It provides a very skin-baring, almost naked look to the wearer so you can see your toes through the shoe,” shares designer Britt Netta, who launched her namesake footwear brand this spring. “It’s really taken off this past season because it’s elevated, it’s modern, it’s edgy, and it’s a very versatile shoe to wear.”
Sheer shoes have coincided with an industry-wise rise in both values and aesthetics this year. Throughout 2023, a desire to play with fashion authentically overlapped with a desire for brands to improve their values and sustainability — just look at Thom Browne’s winning lawsuit with Adidas and Shein’s paid influencer trip to visit factories in China, to name prime examples. This has made transparency a look that shows both strength and vulnerability, as well as a sense of whimsy and romance.
“It has a lot to do with overall aesthetics,” says trend forecaster Kendall Becker. “A lot of these mesh shoes we’re seeing are very staple silhouettes, like a very classic pump or a ballet flat, that are typically more modest. This is a really fun and romantic way to showcase a little extra edge and make something a little bit more daring, but it’s a nice balancing act.”
Netta agrees, citing the trend both aesthetically pleasing and practically breathable. Indeed, versatility is key when wearing transparent shoes. Labels including Manolo Blahnik, Sandy Liang, Bella Belle and Christian Louboutin have released styles ranging from ballet flats to pointed pumps, allowing consumers options when finding a pair that best fits their individual style — as seen firsthand by stars like influencer and author Caroline Vazzana.
“I always say there’s no rules when it comes to fashion — so always do what feels right to you,” says Vazzana, who’s worn sheer shoes with jeans, dresses and more this year. “It definitely is not for the faint of heart because you can see your feet, so you want to make sure you have a pedicure done.”
See-through shoes are already making sheer headway as 2024 begins. Spring collections by Aquazzura, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Givenchy and more showcased transparent sandals and heels, while new holiday offerings by Netta, Betsey Johnson and Dior have also utilized the trend. As the 2020s continue, transparency is clearly sticking around.
“I do think that this is a trend that will stick around even for next holiday season, and I think we’re going to see it expand into different categories,” shares Becker. “The lace look is very cool as well — and then lightening this up for the warmer months, this is going to be really pretty in pastels like ice blue, lavender and apricot crush in 2024.”
About the Author:
Aaron Royce is the Digital Editor for Footwear News, where he writes stories on trending news, celebrity style, collaborations and in-depth profile interviews. Prior to joining Footwear News, Aaron wrote for publications including PAPER, Grazia and the Daily Front Row. He currently holds a B.S. in mass communications from Virginia Commonwealth University.
