Lace can be the perfect blend of sweet and sexy when done right. TODAY style editor and Bobbie.com’s Bobbie Thomas shares tips for trying this pretty and popular trend:
'Work' it
Both the beauty and the challenge of wearing lace lies in the fact that it can look a little lingerie-like at times. Thankfully, you can combat looking overly sexy at the office by pairing lace with more structured pieces like a blazer or a pair of well-tailored trousers. You can also take a cue from recent red carpets, where celebrities have been slipping into modest lace styles, including tea-length dresses with delicate lace overlays and blouses with high, Victorian-influenced necklines. (ASOS Curve Lace Top $50, Madisonplus.com; I.N.C International Concepts Bootcut Pant $80, Macys.com)
Dress it down
For moms on the go, teens, tweens and anyone else with a more casual lifestyle, you can add a touch of romance to your usual look by incorporating lace. For weekends, I love pairing a black or cream lace dress with a chunky knit cardigan and cozy sweater tights. Top it off with a scarf, hoodie or even combat boots for an effortlessly chic bohemian ensemble. (Waltz Dress $27, Necessaryclothing.com; Cardigan $90, Bananarepublic.com; Makayla Lace Tank $19, Necessaryclothing.com; Julia Grey Striped Hoodie $43, BrandyMelvilleusa.com; Loyal Boot-Cut Jeans $40. Hm.com)
Toughen up
Last but not least, "sweet meets street" in the runway favorite combo of leather and lace. Anyone can pull off this fashion-forward style for an evening out; the trick is to keep at least one garment classic. Sleek leather pencil skirts and leather jackets are favorites that'll keep things modern and sophisticated; otherwise, you may end up in territory that's a tad too trendy. (Victoria's Secret Rezrekshn Leather jacket $90, Ebay.com; Coincidence & Chance Revel Dress $79, Urbanoutfitters.com).
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