Lace gets a bad rap. More often than not it falls into one of two categories: bridal or too feminine. Both are things that aren’t helpful when you’re standing in front of your closet trying to figure out what to wear to actually go somewhere.
We think that’s mostly bullshit, and this edit is our proof. As far as we’re concerned, lace does one thing that no other material really achieves. It creates texture and interest without heaviness or formal feeling like beading or embroidery can sometimes do.
Done in the right silhouette a lace dress feels dressy without feeling stiff. It’s the sort of thing that has people asking where you bought it vs. if you are going somewhere special. Here we’ve focused on lace dresses that aren’t just for the obvious occasions.
Sure there are some that would be dreamy for weddings, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners and summer evenings when you want to look like you put some thought into your outfit. But we’ve also included options that would work for everyday. Midi lengths in softer ivory and blacks, styles that are relaxed enough for a lunch date that turns into a night out and a stroll home when the sun has gone down.
Lace doesn’t have to be precious. It’s usually styled that way, which is where we take issue. We’ve also been super particular about construction here.
Lace that isn’t lined properly or cut with movement in mind can look cheap very quickly. Every piece here was chosen because the construction was as impressive as the fabric. Lining that lays how it should.
Hemlines that hit flattering points on your legs instead of awkward ones. Sleeves and necklines that have been carefully considered. With lace more than any other material these little things matter.
There’s noplace to hide. We wanted this edit to include everything from going out dresses; the kind of dress you buy for an occasion but end up wearing again and again because you loved it that much, to quiet pieces that you’ll wear on repeat. Especially in black.
It photographs well, layers well over slips or under blazers and wears well through a wider variety of occasions than most people think. Done right lace should not be an edit you browse cautiously. It’s one you should learn, master, and then invest in.
