Searching for that one breathtaking wedding dress, for many brides, results in lovely lace. Wedding dresses that include lace can ensure that your dress will always be classic for your Philadelphia wedding. There are many different types of lace and some things to keep in mind while dreaming of or looking for the perfect lace dress.
Photo credit: The Wedding Shoppe/Rosa Clara
Lace wedding dresses are expensive, which is representative of the quality of the lace. This might be one case where spending less money is likely a bad idea; you do not want to be wearing a cheap wedding dress on your special day. Your Philadelphia bridal salon consultant can help identify the types of lace you should choose for your wedding dress and how to tell if the lace is well made or not.
There are many different kinds of lace, but some are more popular for wedding dresses than others. There is Alençon lace, which was invented in the 1600s by a woman attempting to replicate Venetian lace. It is an elaborate needlepoint lace that originated in France. Alençon lace is also known as French Leaver’s lace and is very soft and cotton-like with a fine background, elaborate edging and distinct patterns that are typically floral.
Another popular style of French lace is Chantilly lace. Unlike Alençon lace, which is made by needlepoint, it is made by twisting and braiding lengths of thread around bobbins. Other types of French lace, including Valenciennes lace, are also bobbin lace. Chantilly lace dates from the 1600s, like Alençon lace. It is identifiable because of its rich detailing and patterns, which are outlined in fine strands. The background of Chantilly lace is made in a geometric pattern that is joined in such a way that it is unnoticeable. Most Chantilly lace is made of either linen or silk.
Eyelet lace is a light and airy fabric, perfect if you want a lace dress but are worried about wearing a more heavy lace for a summer wedding. Eyelet lace is created by making holes via a buttonhole stitch. Eyelet lace was typically made with cotton fabric, but can currently be made with a wide variety of fabrics, including silk and satin. The history of eyelet lace is long and closely related to that of embroidery, but may date as far back as ancient Egypt.
Irish lace comes in a number of different varieties. If you are planning a St. Patrick's Day wedding or simply want to find a way to honor your Irish heritage, Irish lace is a good choice! The creation of Irish lace surged during the potato famine of the mid-nineteenth century when many women who already knew how to do needlework were taught how to make lace. There is crochet lace, Youghal lace, and Limerick lace, among others; crochet lace features patterns designed in a three-dimensional fashion. Youghal lace is a form of Italian needle lace which features knotted borders, buttonhole stitches, floral motifs, and hexagon designs. Limerick lace, one of the oldest forms of Irish lace, features a handmade net background, different patterns and thread thickness that are used to make the design, and a light, dainty quality.