Trend Alert: Mesh Chinese Slippers Are Back!
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Accumulating millions of views on TikTok, the Chinese Slippers seem determined to overshadow espadrilles this summer. Among the various styles of this shoe, those in Mesh appear to be the most popular! Pearls, embroidery, and other vibrant colors adorn these shoes that are sure to surprise. Discover how this pair from the 2000s is making a strong comeback in today’s trends.
What are Chinese slippers?
Fisherman sandals and other babies better watch out, as the Chinese slippers are set to turn the trends upside down this summer!
Now viewed from a couture perspective, these shoes were long considered low-quality items. Purchased for just a few euros or dollars, they quickly gained popularity due to their economic advantage (notably among immigrant households in the United States in the 90s, cf. @thenewsmovement). Practical and comfortable, they continued to charm in the 2000s, becoming a signature piece of the Y2K looks of the time.
However, despite some attempts (like at Balenciaga in 2016), the Chinese slippers failed to last and fell into obscurity… But, the trend is about to change. Because, yes, our love for retro offers a new era of glory for these Chinese mules, especially for one of their variations: the mesh slippers.
How are mesh slippers carving their niche in trends?
Among the mules that will shine this summer, the mesh slippers are set to be the must-have piece. This airy fabric, reminiscent of mesh or crochet, aligns directly with the trend for transparent pieces (dictating the creations of the latest collections). It is adorned with pearls, diamonds, and other sequins, and comes in multiple colors.
These mesh slippers are now walking down the runways, moving away from their low prices to become trendy and more expensive pieces. We discover them priced at 40-50 € in stores like Mango and Topshop, or exceeding a hundred euros at brands riding the wave of this phenomenon.
On the side of renowned houses and designers, Alaïa has made it a signature piece for over 500€. Meanwhile, Nodaleto, which has named it the icon of the season, offers the pair in various forms for 275 € – 550 €. And the Bulla Rina in Multicolor Flower Mesh is already sold out…
How are designers reinventing Chinese slippers?
Although the traditional form of Chinese slippers is that of flat mules with a rounded toe, we are rediscovering them this season in different silhouettes.
Similar to the original version, open-toe Chinese sandals reveal a beach slide vibe. Meanwhile, heeled models add a touch of glam to the ensemble. Stiletto or wedge heels provide height to the pair while maintaining its sought-after kitsch spirit.
Moreover, mesh slippers seem to offer a revival to this fabric that extends beyond just the shoes. Designers are inviting this material into their creations and reinterpreting classics. We discover mesh babies or ballerinas, such as those from The Row, the Olsen sisters’ brand.
In colorful and beaded spirit or classic reimagined, which Chinese slippers will you succumb to?
Photos: Pinterest
