Lace has forever been a favourite in the fashion world, and it’s very easy to see why! This beautiful, effeminate fabric is intricately made, soft and carries an air of old-world elegance that you can’t quite put your finger on. These lovely qualities make lace the perfect place to start when you’re looking at putting together a gorgeous formal outfit. Lace dresses are always going to be on-trend and in style, so you should feel confident in investing a bit of money into a flattering, form-fitting lace number. But what about after you’ve found that dream dress? Styling can be tricky for most, and these outfit ideas for a jaw-dropping formal ensemble are going to lend you a helping hand in putting together your best events dress yet!

Classic Chic

A lace dress is kind of the epitome of classic, and sometimes it’s actually best to stick to what was fashionable a hundred years. Pearls and lace are a match made in styling heaven, so reach for your most decadent pair of drop-down earrings to start. For your shoes, opt for some striking pointed stilettos. Your clutch bag should be a buttery leather in neutral cream, natural tan or inky navy. A graceful shawl draped around your shoulders will add the final touch of opulent elegance to your classic look. A bold red lip, slick of eyeliner and a neat bun will tie this whole outfit together perfectly.

Embrace the Fabric

It can be tempting to try and tone down the tone of your lace dress but embracing it can create a truly breathtaking outfit that totally stands out from the crowd. Now, this does take some calculation to avoid looking more kitsch than cool. For shoes, opt for a subtle pair of strappy heeled sandals in the same tone as your dress. Your shawl is really going to lay the foundation of your match, so look for a lace pattern that works with your dress in a complementary tone. A delicate lace choker, stud earrings and a lace-covered clutch will really emphasise the beauty of your fabric. Keep it glowy and light with your makeup and simply tuck your hair behind your ears to keep the focus on your get up.

Boho Beauty

Lace is the perfect material for all the bohemian babes out there! Once you embrace the traveller vibe you start to see just how fun lace can be to style. Choose a pair of chunky platform heels, layer on the metallic and resin bangles, add some oversized hoop earrings and pull your hair into a whimsical side braid. An intricated beaded shawl and a macramé clutch go perfectly with this outfit.

Dark Romance

A moody, romantic look has been at the height of fashion for a long time now, and your lace dress is perfect for captivating it! Opt for some satin black kitten heels, a velvet burgundy headband, some hammered brass earrings and layer up the dainty chain jewellery. A muted nude or rich wine lip colour with smudgy brown eyeliner and loose mermaid waves will look awesome here. If you really want to up the ante, slip on some sheer nude lace gloves – you’ll be the most unique woman in the room!

These are just a couple of charming ideas to get your styling inspiration flowing! Switching up the tone and mood of a dress is so easy with a few switch-out accessories and beauty tweaks.

Shown David