Thick lace laid over a skin-tone lining
Black lace can be worn two ways: over black lining, it becomes a simple dark patterned fabric; over flesh-tone lining, each flower stands out as if drawn on the skin. This dress chose the second option. It adds a collar of pearls set with rhinestones, a centre front panel scattered with small shining bows and a slim belt closed by a large rhinestone-set bow. Cut close to the body down to the knee, it then flares into a scalloped hem that moves with every step.
Wearing Experience
- An elongated silhouette: the solid black front panel descending from the collar to the hem traces a continuous vertical line that visibly slims the figure
- An adjustable waist: the slim belt buckles at the desired position and can be removed for a straighter look
- A hem that allows free movement: the skirt is fitted over the thighs but flares below the knee: you can walk and sit down comfortably
- Sleeves that remain light: short and unlined, they leave the skin visible under the lace and end with a picot edge
Craftsmanship & Material
Composition: 95% polyester, 5% cotton, according to the label, over a skin-tone lining. The lace is a corded lace: each motif is outlined with a cord, a thick thread laid along the outline of the flowers and leaves, which gives them relief and structure. This is what distinguishes it from fine Chantilly-type lace, which is flatter and more transparent. The cord also makes the lace more resistant: it catches less and holds its shape when worn.
The flared hem is created by cutting the skirt panels, straight over the thighs then distinctly widened below the knee: this fullness, distributed between the seams, forms the flare. The hem is not a sewn hem but the scalloped selvedge of the lace itself, finished with picot edges, like the bottom of the sleeves. The centre front panel is decorative: the dress closes with an invisible zip in the middle of the back, under a pearl collar that goes completely around the neckline. Our article on lace evening dresses details the different laces and their properties.
Styling Tips
- Black patent leather pumps with back strap, no jewellery: the collar and buckle are enough.
- For a wedding or formal occasion, a light black stole over the shoulders and a silver clutch that echoes the rhinestones.
- Hair swept up in a high chignon to fully expose the pearl collar.
It joins our lace dresses section and our wedding guest dress selection.
Care for Your Piece
Hand wash at 30°C, inside out, or dry clean. Fasten the belt and remove it before washing: the rhinestone buckle must never go in the machine. No bleach, no tumble dryer. Dry flat on a towel, reshaping the flared hem. Iron with a cool iron on the reverse side, using a pressing cloth, avoiding the collar and buttons.
