Lace is the summer uniform: how delicate trim is dominating the season
The relentless heat of summer demands a certain freedom – a wardrobe that whispers ‘effortless’ rather than shouts ‘formal.’ This season, that translates directly into a pervasive obsession with lace.
A delicate shift in style
Forget the austere elegance of the little black dress. This summer, it’s all about the lightweight dress, a breathable, adaptable staple demanding both comfort and a touch of romance. Designers, from Fendi to GCDS, have embraced the slip silhouette, layering long and mini lengths with a signature detail: a delicate lace trim. It’s a subtle yet potent statement, injecting a dose of femininity into what would otherwise be a purely functional garment.
Lace’s unexpected rise
We’re seeing this trend manifest across the board – from the runways of Fendi and GCDS, showcasing everything from knee-length lace-trimmed dresses to flirty mini silhouettes, to the streets. Neutral palettes are punctuated by this intricate embellishment, and bolder prints are enhanced by the same delicate touch. Don’t even get me started on the accompanying accessories: lace shorts and asymmetrical lace tops have seen a significant uptick in popularity.
Street style embraces the look
The impact isn’t confined to the established fashion houses. Street-style stars are instantly adopting the lace-trimmed dress, pairing them with everything from flip-flops and minimalist jewelry for a casual, sun-drenched vibe, to stiletto heels and oversized sunglasses for a more glamorous evening look. The beauty lies in its versatility; it’s a piece that can truly be dressed up or down.
A zara find – and a personal obsession
I’ve become utterly captivated by this trend, diving deep into online shopping to locate the perfect piece. And I've landed on a Zara design: a pistachio green lace midi camisole dress. The colour is undeniably on-trend, and the longer length elevates the look, creating an illusion of effortless sophistication. The double-layer construction – featuring lace strategically placed – is a clever detail that adds both texture and flattering fit. Frankly, I predict I'll be sporting this four times a week.
Shop the look
Zara Contrasting Lace Midi Camisole Dress – £39.99
Abercrombie & Fitch Bra-Free Lace-Trim Button-Through Midi Dress – £82
New Look Light Yellow Lace Trim Bias Cut Midi Dress – £39.99
Reformation Jessalyn Silk Dress – £278
Mango Satin Lace Dress – £55.99
Source: Cosmopolitan US
Megan Uy, Associate Shopping Editor at Cosmopolitan, and Alexandria Dale, Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, contribute to this piece.