Mesh vs Fishnet Shoes: When to Wear and How They’re Different

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It doesn’t get more multifaceted than mesh and fishnet shoes. The designs can be edgy, sexy, or sporty, depending on the style and the wearer.

Once linked to distinctive subcultures, these ultra-modern fabrics have made their way into the high fashion world for good in the past decade. Despite their newfound status, many people still get mesh and fishnet shoes confused.

Below we’ll be explaining the difference between the two while highlighting some of the best designs for both shoe styles.

Mesh vs. Fishnet: What’s The Difference?

The two fabrics are alarmingly similar with their synthetic materials and tiny cut-out detailing. Many people believe that mesh and fishnet shoes are the same, but there are a few key differences between the two.

Mesh is made from interconnected strands of fiber, while fishnet has an open, diamond-shaped knit, named after the nets that fishermen cast into the oceanMesh is made from interconnected strands of fiber, while fishnet has an open, diamond-shaped knit, named after the nets that fishermen cast into the ocean

Mesh is made from interconnected strands of fiber. The holes are extremely small and create a sheer appearance. Mesh is generally considered a performance fabric and is often used for activewear due to its properties of enhanced breathability and flexibility.

Fishnet has an open, diamond-shaped knit. They are named after the nets that fishermen cast into the ocean to catch fish since they share the same appearance.

Although the holes can greatly vary in size, they are more noticeable than mesh. Fishnet is considered a decorative fabric and is popular for hosiery and lingerie.

What Are Mesh Shoes?

Mesh shoes have been popular for several decades now but mostly in an athletic sense. The sporty material is a favorite of activewear designers for its performance-related benefits.

Eventually, mesh trickled from the world of sports into the world of raves and parties. After all, breathability and flexibility are good qualities to have for dance sessions that last all night!

Mesh material is often used in athletic shoes because of its performance-related benefitsMesh material is often used in athletic shoes because of its performance-related benefits

In recent years mesh has officially become a staple for high fashion footwear. Mesh shoes became a natural progression in the ‘naked shoe’ trend, thanks to the fabric’s sheer appearance.

Bottega Veneta kickstarted the trend in 2019 with their mesh Stretch pump – a design that simultaneously launched the chain shoe obsession.

The airy mesh material has eventually become a staple for high fashion footwearThe airy mesh material has eventually become a staple for high-fashion footwear

The mesh shoe trend is still going strong, with styles appearing on the SS2023 runways of Proenza Schouler, Jonathan Simkhai, and Emporio Armani.

Next year’s mesh shoes are even more eye-catching, with glamorous details such as crystal accents.

What Are Fishnet Shoes?

Fishnet shoes are very similar to mesh shoes but are less common since the material is thinner than mesh. The netting can sometimes be set in PVC for structural support.

This alluring fabric has long been linked to intimate apparel and the goth and punk subcultures. Shoe designers such as Bottega Veneta (once again) and Jimmy Choo have made fishnets wearable for all through their elegant designs, although this striking style is best suited for evening and special occasion looks.

Several high-fashion brands have incorporated fishnets in their shoe designsSeveral high-fashion brands have incorporated fishnets in their shoe designs

DIY fishnet shoes can be created by wearing fishnet socks or tights with transparent shoes, as displayed by Kendall and Kylie Jenner.

In some cases, there are fishnet shoes that are made from genuine fishing nets from the ocean. The Adidas and Parley Collection was created to reduce plastic waste from the ocean and features shoes created from recycled waste and discarded fishnets.

Tretorn and Verdura Shoes are more sustainable footwear brands that upcycle discarded fishnets to create shoes.

Adidas, in partnership with Parley, created fishnet sneakers in 2015 made from intercepted and upcycled marine plastic debrisAdidas, in partnership with Parley, created fishnet sneakers in 2015 made from intercepted and upcycled marine plastic debris (Credit: Parley)

Whether you opt for mesh or fishnet, the fabric will surely add an intriguing element to your footwear!