It's All About That Lace
Who doesn't love lace? Originally made of linen, silk, gold or silver threads, this delicate fabric has been around for centuries and can now be made from a variety of fibers such as nylon, polyester, linen, wool, cotton, silk and rayon.
The only difference is that while lace was used to decorate everything from dresses to door knobs in the 17th century, today it can be seen primarily used in bridal gowns and lingerie. Because of the way lace can transition from ethereal and romantic to lush and opulent, it’s the perfect fabric for a wedding dress. And the fact that it looks amazing in white doesn't hurt either.
You would be surprised to know that there are numerous types of lace and each has a specific origin and history. Let me tell you about a few of them.
Alençon lace or point d'Alençon lace was first made in France in the 16th century, and is renowned for its fine netting ground, corded outlined floral patterns, and heavenly detailing. Alençon lace is superlative as trim for wedding gowns and bridal veils and consists of a floral design on a sheer or net background and has a soft, cotton-like texture.
Possibly the best known type of wedding dress fabric, Chantilly lace or Galloon Lace, as it can be known, is very fine and delicate and is made on a lightweight hexagonal mesh background. The motifs are sometimes outlined in a heavier silky thread or exhibit shading effects and usually have doubled scalloped edges.
Guipire lace is also known as Venetian lace and is a firm, stiff lace without a net background. Patterns are created by a series of close, embroidered stitches onto fine fabric.
Picture credit - maggiesottero.com
Embroidered Lace: Delicate patterns tightly stitched onto an illusion base, forming the appearance of an applique. Often, pieces of embroidered lace are on top of a separate tulle layer.
Bet you didn't know that there was so much variety and history behind this iconic fabric. Thanks to its intricate construction and romantic floral and geometric details, lace looks fresh season after season, and this is why it has been favored by designers year after year.