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Guide to wearing the latest 80s trend: lace
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Fashion trends. They're a funny thing, totally unpredictable.
One season everyone is crazy about the resurgence of the denim bell bottom, the next they're squeezing themselves into the skinniest jeans possible, then a couple seasons later, they're swanning around in "flares," (a.k.a. 21st century bell bottoms). I'm not sure if any rhyme or reason exists that can explain why certain fashions become trends, but I find the phenomenon most curious. As much as designers like to think themselves unique, isn't it interesting how many seem to include the same hot new thing in their collections in the same season. A trend is born.
Thurley Strapless lace dress, $610, net-a-porter.com.
That said, the latest movement in the fashion world is the '80s redux. Yes, those shoulder pads that make us cringe when we look at photos of ourselves in 1980s garb—they've surfaced again, renamed as the sharp shoulder. Skinny belts are popping up here and there, and big hair has also made an appearance. And that's not all. If you think fashion has sufficiently channeled the '80s, think again. Because lace is back too. But here's the thing about it: unlike the shoulder pads many of us just cannot bring ourselves to revisit, lace is an 80s trend that can be enjoyable—and more appropriate—this time around.
Lace: a style guide
If you thought animal prints were a tricky trend to pull off, lace is even more so. Lace done wrong is wholly inappropriate at best, and can make one look like a pro at worst. But don't be afraid; the key is to treat it like you would an animal print: use sparingly. One piece at a time. Below are some pointers on weaving lace into your wardrobe.
Do:
- Wear black or nude lace tights with a monochromatic outfit, making doubly sure that your hemline and pumps are demure, not daring. Nothing says streetwalker like lace tights, stilettos, and a mini.
- Carry a lace-covered or lace-printed clutch. Clutches are very now, and you'll have absolutely no worries about sending mixed messages.
- Wear a lace-inspired jewelry. Throw on a lacy gold cuff or a cocktail ring with lace embedded in it, and pair with anything.
- Slip on a lace-covered pump or bootie. Imagine a crisp white shirt tucked into a simple black pencil skirt paired with an ultra-feminine black lace-covered stiletto. Sassy, yes. But also classy.
- Top bootcut jeans with a lined-lace top. Add simple heels and a wrap and you have the perfect date night outfit.
- Throw a lace bolero over a neutral shift or sheath dress. Lace takes a tailored dress to the next level. Add a statement ring or sparkly jewels to a day dress and watch it transform into cocktail party perfection.
- Top a ladylike lace dress with a short faux fur or leather jacket. A little leather jacket provides contrast and keeps the look from being saccharine; faux fur is not only a glamourous topper, but it makes the look season-appropriate, and keeps you warm, too.
By all means, do not wear:
- Unlined lace clothing. Being provocative has its rewards, but wearing a peek-a-boo lace shirt or dress might spell promiscuous instead of provocative.
- Red or white lace tights. For some reason, red or white lace tights just reek of cheapness. Maybe that's cause somewhere in the back of our minds, they conjure up images of red-lace-stocking-clad models in the Frederick's of Hollywood catalog.
- Lace gloves. Exceptions are leather gloves with lace accents, or being forced to wear them with some hideous bridesmaid dress in your least-favorite cousin's wedding. Or you're 10 and it's Easter.
- Lace lingerie as clothing. Lady Gaga can do it. Madonna has done it. But they are entertainers. You might be mistaken for an entertainer of a different sort if you decide to sport a lace corset or bustier during banker's hours.
Be sure to view the slideshow for more lace inspiration.
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