Lovely Lace

Lace is one of my favourite types of fabrics, I love that it is so pretty and delicate and yet can be so versatile, used in different colours it conjures up all sorts of images from the saintly to the not so, it is a fabric that is with us from Birth in the form of Christening Gowns and Wedding Dresses, taking us from one generation to the next. For me it began with a vintage 1930’s lace top I bought as a teenager and is still a favorite today which is fortunate as it is a strong trend for adults and kids alike this season..

Originally first made in the late 15th century from linen or silk, lace was used to make tablecloths, doilies and in both men’s and women’s clothing on cuffs and collars, some designs being very elaborate in gold and silver threads. Traditionally a hand made item, the demand for it led to the development of machine lace in the late 18th Century which made it possible to produce intricate patterns more quickly. It became more and more difficult for the skilled hand lace makers to make a living and most of the handmade industry had all but disappeared by 1900, there are now only a few places in the world where handmade lace is still for sale, it now mainly being a hobby.

A strong trend for SS14 it has been seem on the catwalks at Marc Jacobs in a Victorian style blouse (first image,) at Rachel Zoe in New York in lovely ice cream shades (third image,) on trainers at Chanel (fourth image,) and at Peter Pilotto with this wonderful Radical Orchid Lace skirt (fifth image.)

For children, there are some great pieces available from the very high end Dolce and Gabanna all over lace (second image,) to the very wearable styles with a hint of lace such as the Ralph Lauren lace cap sleeve top (sixth image,) and the Angels Face Mist Lace Petti Skirt with the lace trim hem detail (seventh image.) Also available if true lace is not your thing are some pretty Broidreie Anglaise styles from Emma Levine, the Elsie Lace Dress (eighth image,) the Ava Cotton Dress in green with lace trim collar (ninth image,) or this fresh white one from Hey Joe (tenth image.)

To get the best wear out of lace items, dress up with sparkly tights and ballerina pumps, or my favourite, rock it with denim and biker boots…