Lace is flirting its way back into fashion’s spotlight

Lace—once confined to grandma’s tablecloths and old-fashioned doilies—has made a sultry return. No longer prim or proper, this once-demure fabric has slipped into something far more daring. Think sheer lace skirts layered under sharp blazers, lacy socks peeking out of heels, and headbands with just the right amount of sass. The once-staid textile is no longer merely nostalgic; it’s been reimagined with rebellion, romance, and a teasing dash of sex appeal.

The return of a timeless icon

Lace’s heyday in high fashion was cemented in the iconic Dolce & Gabbana collections of the ’90s, when lace-drenched dresses dominated the runways. It became shorthand for sensuality and elegance, imbued with the mystique of Italian glamour.

Fast forward to today, and lace is once again stealing the spotlight. Dakota Johnson turned heads at the Golden Globes in a show-stopping sheer black Gucci gown with black lingerie underneath, proving the fabric’s enduring power to seduce. Kylie Jenner and Bella Hadid have worked lace accents at Fashion Week, while Zendaya and Gigi Hadid have spun it effortlessly into street style. Meanwhile, designers like Valentino, Dior, Prada, and Chanel continue to reinvent lace on the runway. The verdict? Lace is back, and it’s misbehaving.

The many ways to wear lace

Lace is no longer confined to lingerie. Today’s fashionista knows how to play with it, mix it up, and elevate it into something that’s not just feminine but undeniably chic. Here are several ways to style it in 2025.

Lace bloomer shorts

Lace bloomers aren't just reserved for sleepwear. Now, they’re the perfect balance of playful and polished. Pair them with a crisp shirt for an unexpected contrast between prim and provocative. For a fresh twist, style them with a leather bomber jacket, a pair of strappy heels, and a cropped blouse for an elevated look. Lace bloomers offer a unique way to showcase your creativity without sacrificing comfort or style. They’re versatile, breezy, and undeniably eye-catching.

Jaded London Tulle Lace Bloomer Shorts, ₹9,999

All Saints Ophelia Cropped Bonded Leather Jacket, ₹69,999

Sheer lace skirts

A sheer lace skirt is one of the most effortlessly seductive pieces you can add to your wardrobe. Its barely-there elegance makes it perfect for a casual date night or an elevated brunch. Pair it with an oversized tee and sneakers for a casual fit with a romantic twist, or soften the look with a silky camisole and block heels. For the more daring, layer the lace skirt over tailored trousers or even leggings for a street-style take on high fashion. It’s the ideal piece to show off your unique style while keeping things light and airy.

Self-Portrait Black Floral Lace Midi Skirt, ₹30,981 approx.

Zimmermann Luminosity Relaxed Fit Linen Patch Lace Shirt, ₹29,250

Lace dresses over trousers

Who says you can’t wear a dress over pants? Because when the dress is lace, it’s even easier to break the rules. A lace dress worn over tailored trousers strikes the perfect balance between softness and structure. The contrast of soft lace against the clean lines of tailored trousers creates the most sophisticated silhouette in the chicest way possible. Add thong-strap flats or a sneaker to ground the look, and finish it with minimal jewellery for a laid-back, fashion-forward ensemble. For a twist, throw on a long-sleeve shirt to add a fun mix of textures, and style the dress with a belt for a nod to the Y2K aesthetic.

David Koma Asymmetric Lace-Trimmed Minidress, ₹134,228 approx.

Dhruv Kapoor Crushed Balloon Pants, ₹44,000

Lace stockings

Unexpected and iconic, lace stockings may sound daring, but styled right, they can easily transition from edgy to elegant. Pair them with an oversized knit sweater and glove boots for a fall-ready look or dress them up with a sleek, tailored jacket and kitten heels for a more sophisticated take. The great thing about lace leggings is that they create an unexpected texture contrast when layered under skirts, dresses, or even shorts. Lace leggings aren’t just for the bold; they’re for the confident.

Valentino Floral Lace Tights 29,721 approx.

Dolce & Gabbana Double-Breasted Satin-Trimmed Corded Lace Blazer, ₹4,30,013 approx.

Lace appliqué

Lace appliqué is the quickest way to turn any piece of clothing into a work of art. Whether it’s added to a simple tee, denim jacket, or even a pair of sneakers, lace appliqué brings an instant touch of high-fashion femininity. For a modern twist, pair a lace-embellished top with distressed jeans and a sleek leather blazer. Or, try a lace-stitched bag to add a sophisticated, romantic touch to any outfit. The beauty of lace appliqué is its ability to elevate even the most casual looks with minimal effort. If you're feeling extra adventurous, why not try DIY-ing lace appliqué on a plain dress or jacket to create something uniquely your own?

Essentiel Antwerp Striped Lace-Patchwork Shirt, ₹28,399 approx.

Adidas Gazelle Clot Linen Khaki, ₹19,000

With lace making its way back into the world of high fashion, it’s clear that this romantic fabric is far from over. Whether you’re looking to add a playful touch or create a bold statement, lace can be styled in countless ways. Its versatility, combined with its timeless allure, means that it’s here to stay, and 2025’s fashion landscape is all the more fabulous for it.

Lead image: Getty

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