Lace, often celebrated as the most romantic of fabrics, has transcended its traditional associations with lingerie and bridal veils to emerge as a versatile and dynamic textile in Lace, often celebrated as the most romantic of fabrics, has transcended its traditional associations with lingerie and bridal veils to emerge as a versatile and dynamic textile in contemporary fashion. Recent collections from esteemed houses such as Chloé, Valentino, and Alexander McQueen have showcased lace in a myriad of forms, from ethereal ruffled gowns in soft pastels to daring acid green iterations. This resurgence has rippled through the high street, offering a plethora of options for integrating lace into everyday wardrobes. While opportunities to don high-drama lace ensembles may be scarce, the fabric’s adaptability allows for both bold office statements and more subdued, judiciously styled looks.
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Cat Deeley recently demonstrated the winter appeal of lace, pairing a voluminous & Other Stories blouse with terracotta trousers—a masterclass in balancing flouncy femininity with autumnal hues. Similarly, Zara Tindall embraced the fabric in a Leo Lin dress that artfully combined it with floral embroidery, perfectly suited to the balmy climate of Australia’s Gold Coast. For those hesitant to brave colder temperatures in lace, consider its irresistible juxtaposition with cozy wool. Claudia Winkleman, among others, has championed this contrast, highlighting the fabric’s gauzy intricacy against the warmth of winter knits.
This interplay of textures has been ingeniously incorporated into a new wave of knitwear. French label Sézane, known for its coveted designs, frequently integrates it into its sell-out knits, while British brand Wiggy Kit offers a merino-cashmere V-neck adorned with a black lace overlay, elegantly framing the décolletage. Wiggy Hindmarch, the brand’s founder, notes, “Lace is inherently feminine, so I find it looks best paired with something masculine or oversized for a more effortless look. A hint of lace peeking through, rather than a head-to-toe approach, creates a more understated yet impactful aesthetic.”
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For those seeking a subtler nod to the trend, lace trimming offers an elegant solution. Slip skirts and dresses with delicately hemmed lace details have become a perennial favorite on both the catwalk and the high street. The key to modernizing these pieces lies in juxtaposing their softness with tougher, more structured silhouettes. This approach harks back to the Phoebe Philo era at Céline, circa 2015, where silky black-and-white lace-trimmed pieces were artfully paired with chunky leather Chelsea boots and tailored blazers. A contemporary update might feature mid-calf biker boots or a shearling jacket, injecting a fresh edge into the timeless combination.
Perhaps the most accessible iteration of this trend comes from Victoria Beckham’s Valentine’s Day capsule collection, which prominently features it in various forms, including her personal favorite: lace tights. These offer an effortless way to introduce texture and variety to all-black ensembles, proving that they need not be confined to floor-sweeping gowns. Whether through subtle trims, layered knits, or statement tights, lace continues to assert its relevance in modern fashion, offering endless possibilities for those willing to experiment with its delicate allure.
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