Blissfully Embrace Just a Little Bit of Lace

photo by Mike Yoder

Thank you, Miucca Prada, for resurrecting lace as a modern trend.
Most fashion followers recognize that where Prada goes, most will eagerly follow; thus, this winter, lace has taken over entire designer collections and clothing racks, and spring 2009 collections are following suit, blissfully lacy.
This new lace is nothing like your granny’s. Lace has been modernized. Wider, looser textile patterns and bold colors dominate.

Along with Prada, check out Roberto Cavalli, Giorgio Armani, Catherine Holstein—even TopShop—for killer ideas and wearable lace. Add funky, lace-patterned trousers, girly headbands, and elbow-length, lace gloves to your shopping list, too.

Day Lace:
Lace is not just for eveningwear. Layer a sheer lace dress over turtlenecks and long-sleeved, structured shirts for a prominent, sculpted shape. Or, if you feel overwhelmed by pattern, lace separates may feel more versatile, and picking a nontraditional, bright-colored lace won’t feel as formal.

Lace doesn’t have to be all frills:
A lacy top beneath a masculine, military bomber jacket offers great contrast, and lace patterned tights paired with an opposite fabric or bright patterned top show off the unique textile designs in each individual lace fabric.
Black lace dresses are more romantic and dramatic—very film noir. Still, though, black lace should be worn with sophistication—subtle sensuality and a classic cut. Trust me, the lace will speak for itself.

Don’t go overboard, drowning in lace:
The intricate pattern in lace is just enough—don’t don pieces plastered with trendy sequins or too many sewed-on jems and jewels.
Pick a few accessories, such as lace-trimmed shoes or a hand bag for one solid outfit, and a statement lace dress for another.

Give your lace a break:
To avoid looking like a tablecloth or valentine’s doily, wear bold, big belts and jewelry. Accessories worn with lace not only provide a bit of rest, but also promise the lace’s pattern stand out, juxtaposed by different materials, fabrics, and colors. For example, a black belt worn around a white lace mini-dress will have a stark, urban appeal.
Furthermore, don’t insist on matching your shoes to your dress trim. Try a stacked heel or ankle boot to bolster an outfit’s modern appeal.
Wear black belts, shoes, or jewels against white lace for a stark, urban take.

Truly, lace is versatile, and just one lace piece can easily transform; from rocker-chic Madonna to sassy, sophisticated film starlet…embrace a little frill, a little burlesque, a little lace.