Home / Lifestyle / Barely-There Shoes: Fashion's Risky New Trend
Barely-There Shoes: Fashion's Risky New Trend
12 Jun
Summary
- New 'sock shoes' offer a unique fit, but raise foot health concerns.
- Mesh ballet flats gained popularity after Alaia's 2022 release.
- Podiatrists warn these fashionable shoes lack support and cushioning.
The fashion world is embracing a new trend of "barely-there" footwear, including Dear Frances' "sock shoes" and mesh ballet flats. These designs, inspired by the desire for intimate and exposed looks, cover the foot with minimal material, creating a delicate frame. This movement gained traction following the 2022 success of Alaia's fishnet ballet flats, which offered a familiar silhouette with a novel, slightly exposed feel.
Trend analysts note that these shoes are becoming integral to styling, blurring the lines between dress and undress, and creating intentional tension in an outfit. Extreme interpretations were even seen on the runway, reducing footwear to its absence. However, this avant-garde approach raises practical concerns.
Podiatrists caution that these fashionable shoes offer little to no support or shock absorption, potentially leading to foot strain and fatigue. Individuals with conditions like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendon issues are particularly advised against them. While visually striking and attention-grabbing, the "naked shoe" is deemed functionally inadequate by medical professionals.
