Explore more wedding ideas & advice
Lace Wedding Dress
Explore
Our service has assisted tens of thousands of couples worldwide in planning their dream weddings!
The Lace Wedding Dress: A Guide to This Timeless Bridal Look
Whether it's applied to long sleeves, appliquéd over a bodice or used to create an entire gown, lace brings an elegance no other bridal material can. It's iconic, used for centuries by brides who want to express their femininity and create a romantic look. We always recommend trying at least one lace dress during shopping — 9 times out of 10, even the most minimalist bride ends up choosing a style with a little lace. It's too charming to resist.
The beauty of lace is that it can feature without being the main event — just a nod to classic bridal styling on a modern gown makes the whole look feel timeless. But with so many patterns, textures and varieties, the scope can be bewildering. This guide helps you navigate the intricate world of lace and decide which style is right for you.
Lace brings romance and timeless elegance to any bridal gown.
PLANNING . WEDDING — is easy to remember and even easier to use.
The Different Types of Bridal Lace
These are the lace styles modern brands and designers use most. Chantilly lace is deeply intricate with detailed floral patterns — the most romantic finishing touch, ideal for a vintage-inspired look. Alençon lace, dating to the 16th century, is a soft floral style recognizable by its raised patterns that add flair without distraction.
Guipure lace (also called Venetian) stitches detailed motifs together for a bolder, heavier, statement effect. 3D floral lace is more modern, making gowns 'pop' with detailing that stuns up close.
From delicate Chantilly to bold Guipure, each lace has its own character.
Cotton lace is what an entire lace gown is usually made from — delicate, boho and comfortable, though heavy when damp. And lace appliqués are how most brides wear lace, with strategically placed pieces elevating a tulle skirt or bodice for that fairytale finish.
Which Bridal Silhouettes Suit Lace?
Lace works on almost any gown, but a few silhouettes really suit it. On an A-line — everyone's favorite flattering shape — lace is best on the bodice, drawing the eye to your torso, with appliqués along the skirt trim to keep things balanced. On a mermaid, lace creates drama by hugging every curve; it works best on the sleeves, especially paired with an off-the-shoulder neckline.
A fit-and-flare has the flattering qualities of an A-line with the extra drama of a fuller skirt — a lace fit-and-flare with a low back is a perfect place for framing appliqués.
An A-line shows lace beautifully on the bodice and skirt trim.
And the ball gown — fitted on the bodice before billowing into a statement skirt — is made for a fairytale moment, with 3D floral lace stunning across the whole gown and even the sleeves.
3D floral lace gives a ball gown its dramatic fairytale finish.
Organize your wedding in one place
Lace Sleeve Styles
A popular way to wear lace is on the sleeves, either added during alterations or chosen ready-made. Long sleeve lace is such an elegant look it can turn an average dress into a dream gown — explore more in our long sleeve wedding dresses guide.
Lace bell sleeves flare from the elbow for a touch of boho and can be slipped on or off as the day goes on. Off-the-shoulder is one of the most popular lace styles, whimsical and flirty. And the flutter sleeve — cropped, loose and fluttering at the elbow — gives a lace gown a wistful, bohemian finish.
Lace bell and flutter sleeves add a soft, bohemian finish.
Explore unique and unconventional wedding dress styles
Step outside the traditional with not ordinary wedding dresses, featuring bold styles like jumpsuits, vintage-inspired designs, elegant satin, lace, and long sleeve options. Whether you’re drawn to a mermaid silhouette or looking for something truly unconventional, find a dress that reflects your distinctive style.