Lace has been around for centuries and is undeniably one of history's most popular bridal fabrics. This versatile, lightweight, and delicate cloth adds a romantic and ethereal feel to every bridal ensemble, whether used in a stunning wedding dress or bespoke wedding veil.
Wedding lace can be customised based on the bride's preferences and crafted in various patterns and textures. To most people, a Chantilly lace may look the same as any embroidered bridal lace, but look closer, and you'll find that the details and thread-work distinguish it from the others.
Simply put, lace can make or break a bride's look. Looking plain is one of the most crucial mistakes a future bride should avoid on her big day. It’s not every day you can be the centre of everyone’s attention, right? You wouldn’t want to miss out on the opportunity to showcase your unique style and personality during the event. Below are some valuable insights on using lace to turn any wedding dress into a masterpiece.
Ways to use a wedding lace
Wedding lace is made from various fibres and patterns. They can be sewn on the different sections of your gown and veil or adorned with embellishments, including crystals, beads, and sequins, to make a gorgeous piece. Lace trim veils are especially a popular choice for adding a touch of timeless elegance to a bride's ensemble on her special day.
Here are the best ways to use bridal lace and achieve your desired look:
-
Wedding dress overlay
Because lace is sheer and delicate, designers often use other fabrics to create a finished look. It's often mixed with tulle to create different wedding dresses and veils. Other luxurious base fabrics, like organza, silk, and chiffon, are likewise used for a fuller and more structured shape. Brides can have lace overlays added to the wedding dress’ bodice, skirt, or train.
-
Lace appliques
An applique describes a threadwork technique that attaches one or two fabrics to a garment base and creates different patterns from them. Wedding dressmakers typically use this method to make lace wedding veils and add stunning details to an otherwise simple gown.
CAMILA | Lace Appliqués Veil
-
Lace insertion
Lace insertion involves using any lace trim and sewing it by hand or machine onto the base. This type of needlework is predominant in the Edwardian era, but the timeless appeal of this design lingers to this day.
-
Lace trim or border
A lace trim is used to add an interesting hem detail on a bridal dress or a wedding veil. Laces with scallops and other edging details are ideal for these projects.
EMMALINE I | Mantilla Veil
Wedding lace options
Lace was first made by Europeans in the 16th century and primarily crafted from linen and silk. Five centuries later, it's still a staple in many wedding gowns and formal dresses but sourced from a wider range of fibres, including cotton and rayon. Modern techniques have been added to traditional threadwork alongside an extensive range of embellishments to accentuate a bride's overall look.
Considering that lace traces its roots in Europe, it’s unsurprising to see that most types of lace are named after specific areas in France and Italy.
-
Chantilly lace
Chantilly lace is named after a French town where the fabric comes from. It's one of the most preferred choices in Sydney and the rest of the world. Chantilly often features a detailed floral pattern, making it a great addition to any wedding dress.
Best uses: Chantilly lace is best for making bridal dress overlays and sleeves, bringing a traditional and romantic look. It can add a dreamy and glamorous detail to the edges of your bridal veil or dress.
COLETTE II Lace Edged Veil
-
Alencon lace
Another immensely popular lace type named after a French town, Alencon lace is marked by bold and raised motifs and corded trims on a sheer background. Because of its look, Alencon lace was a highly-coveted garment among the royals. Despite requiring heaving threadwork, this lace remains flowy.
Best uses: Alencon can hold heavy embellishments like beads, pearls and sequins and works best as an applique. It's a great option for brides who want a timeless and elegant look.
-
Guipure lace or Venetian lace
Guipure lace features raised floral or geometric designs linked together by loops and with no background or netting. Also called Venetian lace, this detailed fabric is stiff and firm and is, therefore, heavier than other lace options.
Best uses: This fabric can be used as an overlay or as lace trims to a bridal dress or veil. Some designers use Guipure as lace insertions or embed beads and sequins to enhance its regal look, allowing the bride to shine on her wedding day.
-
Point D'Esprit lace
Another lace option with French roots, Point D'Esprit lace, is a lightweight netted fabric with a dotted design. Its sheer look makes it a great addition to any bridal gown and veil.
Best uses: Often mistaken for tulle, this lace choice can be used as a wedding dress overlay in the gown's skirting. Regardless of its location, Point D'Esprit adds volume to any formal wear and a flirty and fun vibe to any bridal head cover.
-
3D lace and embroidery
As its name implies, 3D lace is an innovation that makes certain designs, for instance, flowers, leaves, and butterflies, more alive and striking. Much work is required to make one. After cutting the patterns, each must be sewn onto a base textile, usually tulle, to incorporate each component.
Best uses: Brides with unconventional tastes will love 3D lace owing to its modern and artistic look. 3D lace is best used as a bridal dress or wedding veil applique or trim for a more vibrant appearance
Concluding thoughts
To most, a wedding dress isn't complete without lace integrated into its design. Whether sticking to traditional options like Chantilly, Guipure, Alencon, or the more advanced 3D lace, there's always one that aligns best with your look and the gown's design.
Note that the choices above may differ from the options available in your area. It's highly recommended to speak with a wedding designer to explore and find the best wedding lace options. They're your best allies in getting the perfect wedding date ensemble.
