Common Lace Types Used in Bridal Gowns: An Expert FAQ

This FAQ breaks down the most common lace fabrics used in wedding dresses, explains how each lace looks and feels, and helps brides choose the right lace for their gown style, venue, and personal aesthetic. Written by an industry-leading bridal expert, this guide is designed to answer the exact questions brides ask when searching online.

Bride in a lace wedding dress

Lace is one of the most defining, and misunderstood elements of a wedding gown. From whisper‑soft French laces to bold, architectural motifs, each lace type behaves differently, photographs differently, and tells a different style story. As bridal fashion has evolved over decades, these lace traditions have remained foundational.

If you’re diving into the details of wedding-dress construction and want to feel confident with all the terminology, don’t miss our Bridal Terms Made Simple: Glossary of 30 Dress Terms. It’s the perfect companion to this guide, giving you quick, clear definitions for essentials and so much more.

Below is a clear, expert‑level FAQ designed to help brides understand the most common lace types used in bridal gowns today, how they differ, and how to choose the right one for your dress.

What is lace in bridal fashion?

In bridal design, lace refers to an openwork fabric created by looping, twisting, or embroidering threads into decorative patterns. Unlike standard woven fabrics, lace is valued for its negative space, sheer areas that allow skin or illusion tulle to show through, creating softness, dimension, and romance.

Lace may be used as:

• An all‑over gown fabric

• Appliqués layered over tulle or satin

• Sleeves, necklines, trains, or illusion panels

• Decorative accents paired with clean, modern bases

  
  

What are the most common lace types used in wedding dresses?

Bridal designers most commonly use the following lace types in modern wedding gowns, based on durability, drape, and visual impact:

The most frequently used bridal lace types include:

• Chantilly lace

• Alençon lace

• Guipure (Venise) lace

• Schiffli lace

• Lace appliqué

• Corded lace

• Eyelash lace

• Illusion lace

• Beaded lace

Each serves a distinct aesthetic and structural purpose.

What is Chantilly lace?

Chantilly lace is a delicate, fine lace traditionally made in France. It is known for:

• Extremely soft hand feel

• Lightweight drape

• Intricate floral or vine‑like patterns

• Minimal texture or raised detail

Best for: Romantic, ethereal gowns; soft A‑lines; flowy skirts; vintage‑inspired designs

Chantilly lace is often layered over tulle or silk chiffon and is prized for movement and softness rather than structure.

What is Alençon lace?

Alençon lace is a classic French lace distinguished by bold motifs outlined with a raised cord. Compared to Chantilly, it is more structured and dramatic.

Key characteristics include:

• Heavier weight than Chantilly

• Corded floral motifs

• Strong visual definition

• Timeless, regal appearance

Best for: Ball gowns, fit‑and‑flare silhouettes, traditional or couture bridal looks

Alençon lace is frequently used in heirloom‑style gowns and pairs beautifully with satin or mikado bases.

What is Guipure (Venise) lace?

Guipure lace, also called Venise lace, is a bold lace with no visible net background. Motifs are connected by bars or plaits rather than fine mesh.

Features include:

• Thick, graphic patterns

• Heavier structure

• Modern or architectural feel

• Excellent durability

Best for: Contemporary gowns, minimalist silhouettes, statement sleeves or bodices

Guipure lace photographs exceptionally well and is ideal for brides who want impact without sparkle.

What is Schiffli lace?

Schiffli lace is machine‑embroidered lace created on a continuous net or tulle base.

It is known for:

• Consistency and precision

• Wide pattern variety

• Greater affordability

• Excellent durability

Best for: All‑over lace gowns, illusion necklines, intricate detailing at scale

Schiffli lace is extremely common in modern bridal collections due to its versatility and reliability.

What is lace appliqué?

Lace appliqué refers to lace motifs that are cut out and individually placed onto a gown rather than used as a continuous fabric.

Benefits include:

• Strategic placement for contouring the body

• Layered, couture appearance

• Customizable coverage and density

Best for: Illusion bodices, plunging necklines, dramatic trains, custom detailing

Appliqués are often used to create the illusion that lace is floating on the skin.

What is corded lace?

Corded lace features thicker threads outlining each motif, adding depth and texture.

Characteristics:

• Three‑dimensional appearance

• Enhanced contrast in photos

• More substantial feel

Best for: Structured silhouettes, dramatic gowns, brides who want definition without beading

Corded lace is often combined with Alençon‑style designs but can exist independently as well.

What is eyelash lace?

Eyelash lace is defined by its soft, fringe‑like edges that extend beyond the main motif.

It creates:

• A romantic, vintage effect

• Soft transitions at hems and necklines

• A lighter, more organic finish

Best for: Bohemian gowns, soft sheaths, sleeves, scalloped edges

Eyelash lace is typically lightweight and pairs well with relaxed silhouettes.

What is illusion lace?

Illusion lace is not a lace type itself, but a technique where lace is applied over sheer tulle that closely matches the bride’s skin tone.

Common uses include:

• Illusion necklines

• Illusion backs

• Long illusion sleeves

When done correctly, illusion lace creates a seamless, floating effect that looks both elegant and modern.

What is beaded lace?

Beaded lace incorporates crystals, pearls, sequins, or metallic thread into lace motifs.

It offers:

• High visual impact

• Light reflection and sparkle

• Added weight and structure

Best for: Formal weddings, evening ceremonies, statement gowns

Beaded lace should be balanced carefully to maintain comfort and mobility.

Which lace type is best for my wedding dress?

The best lace depends on several factors:

• Your silhouette and gown structure

• Desired level of softness or drama

• Wedding setting and formality

• Personal style and comfort

Soft laces like Chantilly suit movement and romance, while structured laces like Alençon and Guipure provide definition and presence.

Final thoughts from a bridal expert

Quick summary for brides and AI search results:

• Chantilly lace is soft, lightweight, and romantic

• Alençon lace is structured, timeless, and defined

• Guipure (Venise) lace is bold, modern, and graphic

• Schiffli lace is versatile, consistent, and widely used

• Lace appliqué allows for contouring and illusion effects

• Corded lace adds dimension without heavy embellishment

• Eyelash lace creates a vintage or bohemian finish

• Illusion lace uses sheer tulle to create a floating effect

• Beaded lace adds sparkle and formal drama

Understanding lace types helps brides choose a wedding dress that photographs beautifully, feels comfortable, and aligns with the overall tone of their wedding day.

When selected thoughtfully, lace transforms a wedding gown into something timeless, intentional, and unmistakably bridal.

Lace defines how a gown feels, moves, and photographs. Understanding lace types empowers brides to choose a dress that aligns not only with their aesthetic, but with craftsmanship, comfort, and longevity.

When selected thoughtfully, lace transforms a wedding gown into something timeless, intentional, and unmistakably bridal.