TOUCHES OF LACE

Photo: ejones photography/All Rights Reserved
Above:: Chantilly lace bodice and organza shawl with border

Right: Chantilly lace motif

Is there anything more simpatico with bridal wear than lace? Some brides go with just a touch of it on their wedding day, others go all out in allover lace gowns intricately beaded.
The history of lace making is an entire book or docudrama in itself and the art of making it goes back in time further than some fabric weaving. Knotting techniques actually trace back to basket making. As lace making evolved into an art form, so did demand for it.

Like fabric has a weave, lace has different patterns. Here are a few of the most common:

Alencon-Floral patterns on mesh or net background outlined in cording. Has a three-dimensional look.

Chantilly-Floral or foliage designs on a net background. Generally has a scalloped edge.

Cluny-Crocheted lace in heavy cotton also known as Irish lace. Chic in the swinging 1960s for mini wedding dresses and granny gowns.

Eyelet-Actually a woven cotton with eyelet cutouts and embroidery.

Peau d'Ange-Delicate version of Chantilly lace made with a flossier yarn.

Schiffli-Embroidered design on a mesh or organza background. Typically has a scalloped border.

Venice-Heavy lace with raised designs. Usually a single motif with an open background.

Above Left: Allover Chantilly lace wedding dress.

Above Right: Dress detail. Chantilly lace with scalloped edge

Above: Peau d'Ange lace. A delicate version of Chantilly



Eyelet bodice detail: eyelets and embroidery






Full view of eyelet dress







Gowns by Amy-Jo Tatum