CONTEMPORISING LACE
Now that we've entered the embellishment wonderland that is Vinka's Archives, it's time to start thinking about what we could be making. While lace and trims often have a formal feeling, there are plenty of ways to incorporate them into contemporary, everyday garments without feeling over dressed. If you don't receive our emails (firstly, you're missing out) then you will have missed our write up about the legendary designer Vinka Lucas (Vinka Design).
We've received an exceptional collection of European lace, beading and trims from the 'Queen of Queen Street' during her reign as NZ's most covetable couturier. A fashion pioneer from the early 60's onwards, Vinka was internationally regarded as one of NZ's most successful designers, with a vibrant legacy collected by Te Papa and The New Zealand Fashion Museum.
While it's a no brainer to peruse our Vinka Archive if you're planning a wedding, there's plenty of ways to incorporate these trims and experience a little bit of everyday couture.
Add to your cuffs
A small and subtle cuff embellishment is all you need to take a plain cotton or linen shirt and make it fancy. You could appliqué directly onto the cuffs, sandwich it with a placket, or even create a faux cuff using wider lace.
Add to your neckline
A classic collar goes a long way on it's own, but soften those sharp edges with a frilled or floral lace and you've instantly upgraded your outfit. Attached a soft Chantilly lace to collar stands or bound necklines to add volume without the weight.
Add to your hem
An inconspicuously glamorous addition to any garment? A touch of lace at the hem. Try inserting into a side split, or layering onto a sheer base for a quietly luxurious touch.
Add as structure
What better way to create unique garment shapes than by defining them with lace? Draw the eye with bodice inserts, create an off the shoulder look with difference, or create mock sleeves with crossing panels.
Add back detailing
An open back gets that much better when it's trimmed. Draw the eye down a plunging V, border a keyhole back or layer strips to create a voluminous blouse with a feminine touch.
Add to your sleeves
Adding partial or full trims to your sleeve gives a gentle but effective detail to any garment. Define a dolman sleeve with an insertion lace, create a sheer panel and break up a fuller sleeve, or add just above a cuff for small but special touch.
Add small details
Even the smallest amount of lace can have a big impact. A simple addition to a bodice, a button stand or the back of a dress makes all difference in taking your piece from everyday to exceptional.
If you're feeling inspired to use lace in your next project, check out our archival trims collection here - and be sure to tag us @drapersfabrics on instagram with your creations. If you're looking for more reasons to love lace, check out our Vinka inspired pinterest board.