Photo: Showbit
Lace has always been tricky to pull off. Not a material for mere casual wear, it’s known to be the stuff for lingerie, wedding dresses or formal dinner party dresses. It’s alluring, sensual and luxurious — all thanks to Queen Victoria, who got married in a white lace dress, causing lace to forevermore be intricately tied with notions of femininity.
But what if we told you that this arabesque design fabric need not be relegated to the bedroom or evening wear? It’s suitable for the office too — with the right accessories and styling.
If you’re as much in love with the fabric’s details and feminine charm and you want to rock a piece to work, here’s a list of some of our favourite work-appropriate lace dresses.
Splurge:
Local label Aijek is known for its ethereal lace dresses and slim feminine silhouettes. This strapless number from Aijek features a soft pastel shade and can be worn for work with a blazer and nude pumps. Finish with delicate necklaces and rings.
Photo: Aijek
Singaporean brand Whole9Yards gave a simple LBD the lace treatment with this piece. The interesting ‘leaf’ lace and ‘ladder’ waist trim elevates the dress to a whole new level. Opt for statement bracelets, earrings and shoes to add colour to the outfit.
Photo: Whole9Yards
Founder Han Chong uses soft pink cream satin guipure to offset the harsh architectural elements of the piece. The effect? Something feminine, modern and edgy. Keep with the theme and go with a pink clutch, white slingbacks and delicate rings.
Photo: Net-a-Porter
Give off a vintage vibe with this inventive cream-coloured silk creation from British label Alexander McQueen. Featuring a high neck and laddered frills on a tiered skirt and neckline, the dress has many details and can stand on its own. Go feminine and simple by pairing with nude pumps or channel McQueen punk rock with its signature statement leather belt and studded boots.
Photo: Alexander McQueen
With a high neck and long sleeves, this darkly romantic piece is modest enough for work. Channel Americana vibes with this black silk dress and finish with studded leather boots. Better yet, add a cowgirl hat. Yee-haw.
Photo: Coach
Inspired by rebrodé lace from the Renaissance period, this floral lace Gucci number references vintage details but can be easily modernised with lace-up knee-high leather boots and a crossbody bag.
Photo: Gucci
Steal:
Made with unique laser cut lace, this is a quirky take on the trend. This stone white Zara dress can be quickly dressed up with layered bracelets and black strappy heels.
Photo: Zara
Not only is it in an appropriate length for work, the neutral blush pink hue of this Mango dress will flatter any skin tone and it is a quick fuss-free outfit to throw on for those tired mornings. Finish the look with kitten heels and chunky rings.
Photo: Mango
Boasting a cute asymmetric hem and a sultry low back, wear this Topshop dress to the office but wear a shirt or jumper over it, which you can shed after work. This piece is also versatile enough to transition easily from weekend brunch to electronic dance party — just finish with slinky gold heels and some statement earrings.
Photo: Topshop
With its long sleeves and dark colour, this girly piece is definitely boss-friendly. Wear this piece with black pumps and a shoulder bag.
Photo: H&M
Get this canary yellow pleated dress from Lulus that incorporates a little crochet lace trim for extra feminine vibes. We adore the open back and tie straps that make the breezy piece perfect for a weekend brunch or picnic. For work, wear with a vest or denim jacket and go simple with the accessories.
Photo: Lulus
Pair this slip dress with a blazer to make it appropriate for work, and take it off after for a sexy after-hours date. Wear with booties for an edgy touch and throw on the necklace your partner got you for V-day.
Photo: Bershka
Featuring a cute fit and flare silhouette and a flirty see-through portion at the limbs, the neutral orange tones of this Pomelo creation will suit both warm and cool-toned people. Best worn with rose gold jewellery to play up the orangey-brown tones.
Photo: Pomelo Fashion
ALSO READ: WHAT TO WEAR TO WORK: COLOURS TO MAKE YOU FEEL LESS STRESSED