Trendspotting: Arsenic and Old Lace

It should come as no surprise to readers of this blog that I like lace.  (Not quite as much as I like sequins, but some relationships are best left unchallenged.)  Lace is feminine, stylish and most importantly, versatile.  Whether your style is pretty like Dakota Fanning, rocker chic like Rihanna, or sultry like Blake Lively, you can make a lace piece work for you. 

Unless you want to crazy with lace leggings or can afford a lace jacket, you basically have three options: skirt, dress, blouse. Here are my favorites:

The BB Dakota Isaac Skirt is probably the most perfect lace skirt ever (Shopbop, $50).  I like that the pattern is a bit different and that it’s not a standard pencil skirt.  Of course, if you prefer a pencil or a mini, J.Crew has options for both.

If black lace is a bit too Twilight for your tastes, Tracy Reese makes a lovely off-white lace dress ($325).  This would be perfect for a winter wedding rehearsal dinner dress (bride only) or a transition piece that can be worn year round.  Black tights and pumps for cold weather, a chic black sandal for Spring and Summer.

If you opt for a lace blouse, I suggest you choose either a 3/4 or short sleeve top.  Long sleeve black lace can look a bit constricting/Dracula for comfort, and sleeveless tops aren’t very utilitarian.  This top from MM Couture ($70, Revolve Clothing) is the perfect balance.

Whether you choose any of these pieces or not, lace is a trend that you should try for Fall.  If you aren’t sure it’s for you, try to find a less expensive piece at Forever 21, H&M or Zara and give it a test run.  There are plenty of options available in every price point and taste.