No fabric can compete with lace for romance and beauty. This special fabric was once only the domain of royalty, but today any woman can choose to feel royal for a day in a gorgeous lace gown. The wonderful thing about lace is that it can be used to create so many different styles of wedding gowns, from classic and demure to sensual dresses with a modern romantic feeling. These are some of the most elegant lace wedding gowns.While most people get a specific image in mind when they hear the word lace, there are actually many distinctive varieties of lace. Some are stiff and formal like Alencon lace, some are more lightweight and fluid, such as Chantilly lace, and some are whimsical, like some Venise laces. Much depends on how the lace is used.If a lightweight lace is draped over a silk charmeuse, the result will be a body conscious gown with more sex appeal than you might expect lace could ever have. To really help accentuate curves, consider a beaded lace, which will help to pull the fabric down, and therefore closer to the body. The great part is that the texture of the lace will make this form fitting gown much more forgiving than the same silhouette in a smooth material like crepe or charmeuse. The lace sheath strikes the perfect balance between a contemporary sophisticated cut and a traditional bridal fabric. It works well for brides of all ages, with or without a veil.Another very appealing way to use lace is as a whole piece of cloth. While an all-over lace gown might sound busy, the lace ends up reading more as a rich texture than a giant piece of lace. In other words, set aside any fears that you will look like you are wearing your grandmother's lace tablecloth. As long as the lace is a good quality, the effect will be absolute luxury, not table linen. Alencon lace is a favorite for this technique. If draped over a stiff lining it will create a very defined and formal bridal gown, which is perfect for a bride with a very romantic style. Wear it with pearl bridal jewelry and a long veil trimmed with a matching lace border. On the other hand, when the heavy lace is draped over a fluid lining fabric, the result is a gown with a marvelous weight, yet a surprising amount of movement; truly spectacular.1950s inspired wedding gowns are very popular these days, and it was certainly an era which revered lace. Take your cue from the '50s with a classic strapless bridal gown in a stiff taffeta which is embellished with lace applique on the bodice and around the hem. A satin bow at the waist of the gown will make the effect absolutely darling.In the '50s, a bride would have worn something over her strapless gown for a church wedding, such as a fitted lace bolero jacket. Do the same if your church is conservative, or simply wear the gown strapless. Classic pearl bridal jewelry such as a strand of pearls and coordinating earrings will complete the look beautifully.The open nature of lace means that it can be used to create lovely contrasts with the lining fabric. If you are interested in a wedding gown with a hint of color, try layering ivory lace over a soft pink lining for a garden wedding. For a very sophisticated style, cream lace over a deep sand or champagne color is marvelous. Another option is to select a lace which is a deeper color than the lining. A lightweight Chantilly lace in pale gold over a cream lining is positively regal. A dash of color is a wonderful way to take a classic style like a lace bridal gown and give it a unique personality. Laura Firenze
