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There’s one type of dress that’s as versatile as it is historical — the lace dress. These floaty frocks date back to the seventeenth century, when lace was a symbol of wealth, sometimes even being the most expensive part of an entire outfit. While that’s not necessarily the case today, the best lace dresses have retained their class, making for timeless year-round dressing options, especially with layering come the fall and winter.
Recently, lace dresses have made a comeback, with designers sending them down runways and shoppers everywhere sporting them on sidewalks in major cities. High fashion iterations were seen on spring 2023 runways at Dion Lee and Christopher Kane to fall runways like Mugler and Anna Sui. Fashion tastemakers like Alexa Chung and Chriselle Lim have been spotted in the lace dresses on the streets during fashion week. But it’s not just for models and celebrities; everyone can wear lace dresses.
There are plenty of lace dresses for a variety of occasions; perhaps a slip dress for a garden party or a sophisticated pick for wedding guest attire? Though lacy dresses may read bridal to some, rest assured that you can find a slew of styles in different colorways and cuts to suit your aesthetic.
We consulted with Sarah Edmiston, part of the celebrity stylist duo Zadrian and Sarah, to narrow down a list of the 20 best lace dresses to wear this fall. From delicate, dreamy maxi lace dresses to short, structured options, there’s a lace dress for you.
Top Lace Dresses of 2023
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Simkhai Joy Lace Mini Dress
Best Lace Dress for Winter
- Size range: 0 to 14
- Colorways: Black, white
- Fabrics: Polyester, spandex
- Pros: The hidden zip cuffs on the long sleeves are a nice touch of practicality.
- Cons: The mock neck can feel constraining for those
thatwho prefer a more breathable silhouette. - Retailer Availability: Shopbop, Saks Fifth Avenue
- Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
- Shopbop Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
Sheer mesh comes together with guipure lace to produce a black mini dress that elevates the classic LBD. The A-line cut flares out into a ruffled hem in its geometrically patterned fabric. Sure, winter will be here before we know it, but mini dresses have year-round versatility. Just throw on a pair of sheer tights, and this lace dress with sleeves is perfect for a posh party or evening event.
Price upon publish date of this article: $895
Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue
Sir. Willa Silk Dress
Best Cut-Out Lace Dress
- Size range: 4 to 10
- Colorways: Navy
- Fabrics: Silk
- Pros: Whether it’s worn as an evening gown or a daytime dress, the style is versatile.
- Cons: It’s exclusive to Saks so there’s limited availability.
- Retailer Availability: Saks Fifth Avenue
- Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
A V-neck front and a cut-out design invite intrigue in this maxi design. The navy silk gives a gracefulness to the style, and the lace is used to add a coquettish effect. Sir. has nearly perfected the slip dress, and this style exemplifies that. With some strappy black heels, the next gala awaits.
Price upon publish date of this article: $480
Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue
Maje Ribroda Mini Dress
Best Long-Sleeve Lace Dress
- Size range: 2 to 10
- Colorways: Navy
- Fabrics: Polyester
- Pros: The flowing silhouette makes for increased breathability.
- Cons: There’s no zipper, so it needs to be pulled on over the head.
- Retailer Availability: Saks Fifth Avenue
- Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
A simple, elegant, and versatile dress can be hard to find. Maje has somehow found a way to convey all three qualities in one chic style. A paisley lace motif weaves its way throughout the piece, from the sleeves’ cuffs to the hems’ trim. The comfortable elastic waist cinches the body, flaring out into a single-tier smooth satin skirt. A hybrid of contemporary and classic awaits in this design.
Price upon publish date of this article: $165.57
Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue
L’Agence Scotlyn Slip Dress
Best Lace Slip Dress
- Size range: 00 to 18
- Colorways: Black
- Fabrics: Silk
- Pros: The span of sizes allows for most body types to comfortably wear this dress.
- Cons: With the lace hem, it’s on the shorter side of the midi style to keep in mind for more formal wear.
- Retailer Availability: Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman
- Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
- Bergdorf Goodman Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Lace and slip dresses go hand in hand, complementing each other in form and fabric. I love this L’Agence one because its simplicity makes it so timeless. Eyelash lace silk panels detail the dress to form a delicate and distinguished dress. It’s a bit flirty without being too revealing, so it can be worn to a fancy occasion. Adjustable straps also make for a more tailored fit. If you’re looking for the best shoes to wear with black lace dresses like this one, reach for kitten-heeled mules.
What reviewers say: “So chic and subtly sexy. Perfect fit.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $525
Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue
Endless Rose Lace Mini Dress
Best Affordable Lace Dress
- Size range: XS to L
- Colorways: White, black
- Fabrics: Organza
- Pros: The concealed buttons make for convenient changing.
- Cons: There aren’t many larger sizes (only going up to L).
- Retailer Availability: Saks Fifth Avenue
- Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Coming in at $100, this dress is a great option for those who don’t want to break the bank on a lace style. The organza fabric is super lightweight, perfect for warmer weather and seasons. A flared design also makes for premium comfort in its breathability. Choose the black lace dress for an option that can transition into the fall with some combat boots.
Price upon publish date of this article: $100
Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue
Saylor Darian Dress
Best Lace Dress for Petite Women
- Size range: XS to L
- Colorways: Blue
- Fabrics: Nylon, polyester
- Pros: This dress can be hand washed so the dry cleaners can be avoided if desired.
- Cons: It’s not great for those wanting bigger sizes.
- Retailer Availability: Revolve
- Revolve Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
This darling dress takes lace to the max in an all-over fabric that’s exquisite in its complex patterning. A slightly open back contrasts the high neckline, and the sleeves are cut to complement the hem of the dress. This is a stellar option for those looking for something understated but luxe. The blue is also striking but subtle at the same time.
Price upon publish date of this article: $231
Courtesy of Revolve
Zimmermann Chintz Doily Lace Dress
Best Lace Dress for the Beach
- Size range: 0 to 4
- Colorways: Ivory
- Fabrics: Polyester
- Pros: The belt is removable, letting the fit be customized with each wear.
- Cons: The coloring can get dirty quickly, so be sure to be extra careful while handling food and drink around this dress.
- Retailer Availability: Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Net-a-Porter
- Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
- Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
- Net-a-Porter Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Known for its adventurous fashion, Zimmermann takes lace to a new level. This romantic style from the Australian brand is apt for any beachy vacations and destination dinners. Lace effortlessly plays between the skin and a cotton slip to create a cut-out effect that evokes intrigue. For some accessory inspiration, the woven belt would perfectly pair with a straw tote bag.
Price upon publish date of this article: $1,600
Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue
A.L.C. Soleil dress
Best Lace Dress for Wedding Guests
- Size range: 00 to 14
- Colorways: Cyan/Regal
- Fabrics: Viscose, polyester
- Pros: An extensive size range makes it very inclusive for all body types.
- Cons: The blue is very bold so you might get tired of it after a few wears.
- Retailer Availability: Shopbop, A.L.C.
- Shopbop Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
Mid-weight satin material gives way to a flowing silhouette for an elegant look in this lace dress. The asymmetrical hem elongates the style. There are lace trims to give the dress a feathery finish. It’s ideal for any special occasion, with radiant blue making an entrance.
Price upon publish date of this article: $595
Courtesy of A.L.C.
Alexander Wang Lace Detail Slip Dress
Best Lace Dress for Parties
- Size range: 0 to 14
- Colorways: Black
- Fabrics: Silk, polyamide, nylon
- Pros: The straps are adjustable so the fit can be tailored.
- Cons: Because the lace on the top creates a lot of volume, it can be difficult to accessorize with statement pieces.
- Retailer Availability: Nordstrom, Net-a-Porter, Shopbop
- Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
- Net-a-Porter Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
- Shopbop Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
Alexander Wang puts its spin on lingerie in a lace dress that ventures outside the bedroom. The juxtaposed lace and silk create a contrast in texture for a stunning finish. The bodice detailing is incredibly intricate and transitions into the slip silhouette with a minimalistic flourish. A tasteful open back is the perfect level of flirtiness for any party, keeping it playful, yet polished.
Price upon publish date of this article: $995
Courtesy of Net-A-Porter
Self-Portrait Green Cord Lace Midi Dress
Best Lace Dress for Fall
- Size range: 0 to 12
- Colorways: Green
- Fabrics: Polyester, polyamide, elastane
- Pros: A hidden zipper makes it easy to slip this dress on and off.
- Cons: The high neckline and capped sleeves can feel restricted on the upper body.
- Retailer Availability: Farfetch
- Farfetch Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.1/5 stars
Self-Portrait is beloved for its creative utilization of lace, and the brand does not disappoint in this carefully constructed midi dress. The cap sleeves add an air of sophistication, furthered by the collared neckline, dainty bow, and crystal button placket. Falling at a mid-calf length, the style is perfect for fall festivities in its demure green hue.
Price upon publish date of this article: $519
Courtesy of Farfetch
For Love & Lemons Cayne Maxi Dress
Best Lace Dress for Spring
- Size range: XXS to XL
- Colorways: Lavender
- Fabrics: Polyester
- Pros: The lining is made from recycled polyester, making for a sustainable component that we love.
- Cons: Sells out fairly fast, so grab your size while it’s still there.
- Retailer Availability: Shopbop
- Shopbop Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
A lace dress roundup isn’t complete without a style from For Love & Lemons. In fact, there’s hardly a piece from the brand that doesn’t incorporate lace in some form or another. All of that to say, the brand is a lace expert. In this dress, lace appears in a ruffled trim that adds a dainty femininity.
Price upon publish date of this article: $201.60
Courtesy of Shopbop
City Chic Trendy Sweet Love Lace Dress
Best Lace Dress for Plus-Size Women
- Size range: 14W, 24W
- Colorways: Teal
- Fabrics: Cotton, nylon, polyester, elastane
- Pros: It’s super easy to clean given that it’s machine washable.
- Cons: There are not many sizes that are available.
- Retailer Availability: Macy’s, Target
- Target Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
- Macy’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
In a faux wrap style, this dress is as versatile as it gets. Dress it up with a pair of kitten heels, or down with some white sneakers for a casual Friday. The crochet lace trimming on the sleeves and all-over lace fabrication make sure that the refined material is at the forefront of the design. Short flutter sleeves further the flowing effect.
What reviewers say: “The weight of the fabric and lining feel luxurious. It’s very comfortable, and stayed in place all night. I would buy this again.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $83.49
Courtesy of Target
Zadig & Voltaire Crystal Lace Dress
Also Consider: Best Lace Slip Dress
- Size range: S to L
- Colorways: Black
- Fabrics: Silk, polyamide
- Pros: The material is very lightweight and minimizes overheating.
- Cons: The straps are not adjustable and could require tailoring to create an ideal fit.
- Retailer Availability: Farfetch
- Farfetch Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.1/5 stars
Take a page from the French and choose a dress that has a refined quality to it. The brand brings its signature rock and roll edginess to the classic slip style with its crystal embellishments. Go from a casual lunch to a wild night on the town simply by changing accessories. The dress is versatility at its finest.
Price upon publish date of this article: $498
Courtesy of Farfetch
Honorine Gilda Lace Dress
Best Lace Dress for Vacation
- Size range: XS to L
- Colorways: Cream
- Fabrics: Nylon, cotton
- Pros: The adjustable ties allow for a custom fit.
- Cons: Without an undergarment or slip, it can appear see-through.
- Retailer Availability: Net-a-Porter
- Net-a-Porter Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
We also turn to lace in swim cover-up form — like this casual lace dress from Honorine. Worn with neutral undergarments, it can even transcend the beach, going from sand to street. Lace ties at the neckline can be adjusted for a tighter or looser fit. The breathable fabric isn’t going to trap the heat either, so spend time in the sun without sweating it.
Price upon publish date of this article: $325
Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
Danielle Frankel Lilia Double-Breasted Lace Dress
Best Lace Dress for Formal Occasions
- Size range: 0 to 12
- Colorways: Ivory
- Fabrics: Cotton, polyamide, silk
- Pros: Concealed buttons on the cuffs are a delicate detail.
- Cons: The pockets don’t actually hold anything.
- Retailer Availability: Net-a-Porter
- Neiman Marcus Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
There’s nothing like a bridal label to show how lace should be done. Danielle Frankel’s blazer dress can be worn to bridal showers and engagement parties, sure, but also to work functions or deluxe dinners. The padded shoulders and oversized lapels add a structured sophistication, while the hourglass shape flatters the figure. A cotton-blend corded lace creates the smooth fit and feel of the style.
Price upon publish date of this article: $2,950
Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
Oscar de la Renta Guipure Lace Cocktail Dress
Best Designer Lace Dress
- Size range: 2 to 12
- Colorways: Fuschia
- Fabrics: Polyester, cotton, viscose
- Pros: The fuschia pairs well with gold, silver, white, and black accessories, so there are options for creative styling.
- Cons: Given the color, it’s not as versatile and may get less use.
- Retailer Availability: Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus
- Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
- Neiman Marcus Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
For a splurge, Oscar de la Renta makes high-quality dresses that epitomize the peak of luxury. This fit-and-flare fuschia style is all about vibrant glamor, with a guipure lace bodice that pours into a flouncy skirt. The intricately-placed material results in a stunning garden of fabric that makes a statement. There’s nothing else like it.
Price upon publish date of this article: $5,490
Courtesy of Neiman Marcus
Iro Emsy Patterned-Lace Mini Dress
Best Lace Dress for Evenings
- Size range: 32 to 38
- Colorways: Black
- Fabrics: Cotton
- Pros: The long-sleeves allow for multi-seasonal wear as it isn’t too breezy or warm.
- Cons: The dress isn’t available in bigger sizes so it’s more limited.
- Retailer Availability: Farfetch
- Farfetch Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.1/5 stars
Iro is always on the cutting edge of fashion, making contemporary styles with subtle flair. The brand’s newest collection uses fabrics to create unique cut-outs. This dress highlights that with the intricate wave-like lace pattern on the sleeves. With some over-the-knee boots, the dress goes from day to night effortlessly.
Price upon publish date of this article: $685
Courtesy of Farfetch
What to Look For in a Lace Dress
When choosing a lace dress, there are multiple factors to consider. The most important are material, style, and occasion.
- Material/Fabric: Because lace doesn’t have too much stretch or give to it, selecting breathable and lightweight materials is critical to being comfortable in the dress. Look for silk, polyester, or viscose when checking the fabrication. For the actual lace, guipure lace is a great option that doesn’t fall on top of mesh. Chantilly lace is also a wonderful material, but it has more of a net backing, so it can appear to be more outlined. While guipure lace is a more elegant choice, both are sound options; it comes down to the desired look.
- Style: Ultimately, the dress should feel like an extension of the wearer. If you are more comfortable in a midi or maxi length, go with that. If you like a mini look or a more fitted bodice, look for dresses that follow suit. There are lace dresses in any and every style, so pick the one that feels most like you. At the end of the day, it’s all about the confidence that you wear it with.
- Occasion: Think about when and where you intend to wear the dress. For example, if you’re headed to a wedding, you might want a more formal style (perhaps a midi or capped sleeve). For an office-ready option, Edmiston says, “A lace dress is the perfect choice as a smart casual option as it inherently has a smart feel to it because of the intricacy of the fabric. It’s the perfect choice for a workwear option for this reason.”
Lace Dress Outfit Ideas: How To Style A Lace Dress
Let the lace speak for itself. When styling the dress, you want the fabric at the forefront of your look. Edmiston adds, “Choose a heel and a gorgeous bag, and your look is complete! That is what we love about a lace dress — we let the incredible detail do the talking and pair it with minimal accessories to let the lace be the statement.” We’ve also added some thoughts on seasonal inspiration.
- Winter: Find accessories that are warm but don’t compromise on style. These may include a pair of over-the-knee suede boots, sheer tights, a faux fur shawl, or a cashmere wrap. Think elegant but cozy. Achieving the balance is the most important part of winter wear — a lace sheath dress is always a good idea.
- Spring: Smart sneakers are a great way to turn a lace dress into a chic work option. Throw on a lightweight jacket or layer with a long sleeve underneath to transition your look into the warmer weather. A leather shoulder bag or structured tote bag can enhance the detail of the lace.
- Summer: A pair of strappy sandals or wedges are light accessories that won’t distract from the design of the dress. Choose a thin pearl necklace or minimalist jewelry for something that complements the lace.
- Fall: Start stomping around in combat boots or ankle boots that add a bit of edgy practicality to your look. A shacket is also great for the changing of seasons, and you can throw on an oversized one over your dress.
How We Selected the Best Lace Dresses
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail, and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
Through interviewing experts, researching the contemporary fashion market, and comparing customer reviews, we rounded up the best lace dresses for 2023. We also tested and picked products from brands that we have extensive experience with. Therefore, we can speak to the quality of the brands and the items, so that we ensure our readers are getting an expertly curated selection that won’t disappoint. Each item chosen has been vetted to make up the twenty dresses that we see as the best today. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Expert
Sarah Edmiston is part of the celebrity stylist duo Zadrian and Sarah. Edmiston has advised on many shopping and trend stories, lending her market experience and styling tips to us. Her comprehensive knowledge of the fashion industry makes her a go-to source for expertise.
Meet the Author
Gabriela Keiderling is a freelancer based in New York, covering fashion, travel, lifestyle, sports, and more. Her work can also be found in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Esquire, Oprah, Observer, and more. Keiderling owns many lace dresses, but she also canvassed the market and interviewed a celebrity stylist for input on the most important factors to consider when selecting a lace dress.
