Blog

Aug 18, 2023

20 Best Lace Dresses

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, WWD may receive an affiliate commission. There’s one type of dress that’s as versatile as it is historical —

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, WWD may receive an affiliate commission.

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.

Sign up for WWD Shop’s newsletter to get the scoop on the best in beauty and style with in-depth reviews of exciting new releases and buyer’s guides to find the products you need to try ASAP.

Related:Best Denim DressesBest Linen DressesBest Amazon DressesCute Sweater Dresses

Best Lace Dress for Winter

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

Simkhai Joy Lace Mini Dress $895 Buy Now At Saks Fifth Avenue

Simkhai Joy Lace Mini Dress $895 Buy Now At SHopbop

Best Strapless Lace Dress

Add a touch of timelessness to your wardrobe with this guipure lace maxi dress that dusts the ankles. A vintage floral pattern stirs up nostalgia and class, and the strapless silhouette is all things elegant. The corseted bodice hugs the chest, while the pleated skirt allows for movement. Also, the soft cream delivers sophistication that’s irresistible.

Price upon publish date of this article: $698

Courtesy of Neiman Marcus

Cult Gaia Solia Strapless Dress $698 Buy Now At Saks Fifth Avenue

Cult Gaia Solia Strapless Dress $698 Buy Now At Net-A-Porter

Cult Gaia Solia Strapless Dress $698 Buy Now At Neiman Marcus

Best Cut-Out Lace Dress

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

Sir. Willa Silk Dress $480 Buy Now At Saks Fifth Avenue

Best Long-Sleeve Lace Dress

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

Maje Ribroda Mini Dress $415 $165.57 Buy Now At Saks Fifth Avenue

Best Lace Slip Dress

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

L’Agence Scotlyn Slip Dress $525 Buy Now At Saks Fifth Avenue

L’Agence Scotlyn Slip Dress $525 Buy Now At Bergdorf Goodman

Best Affordable Lace Dress

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

Endless Rose Lace Mini Dress $100 Buy Now At Saks Fifth Avenue

Best Lace Dress for Petite Women

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

Saylor Darian Dress $231 Buy Now At Revolve

Best Lace Dress for the Beach

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

Zimmermann Chintz Doily Lace Dress $1,600 Buy Now At Saks Fifth Avenue

Zimmermann Chintz Doily Lace Dress $1,600 Buy Now At Nordstrom

Zimmermann Chintz Doily Lace Dress $1,600 Buy Now At Net-A-Porter

Best Lace Dress for Wedding Guests

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.

A.L.C. Soleil dress $595 Buy Now At Shopbop

A.L.C. Soleil dress $595 Buy Now At A.L.C.

Best Lace Dress for Parties

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

Alexander Wang Lace Detail Slip Dress $995 Buy Now At Nordstrom

Alexander Wang Lace Detail Slip Dress $995 Buy Now At Net-A-Porter

Alexander Wang Lace Detail Slip Dress $995 Buy Now At Shopbop

Best Lace Dress for Fall

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

Self-Portrait Green Cord Lace Midi Dress $519 Buy Now At Farfetch

Best Lace Dress for Summer

Alice + Olivia always offers whimsical styles that exude happiness, and this dress delivers just that. A multicolor floral print panels this dress, trimmed with lace at each tier. Perfect for a garden party or summer soirée, this style achieves an effervescence without trying. A crisscross back ensures the plunging neckline stays in place without diving too low.

Price upon publish date of this article: $278

Courtesy of Net-A-Porter

Alice + Olivia Karolina Paneled Maxi Dress $695 $417 Buy Now At Shopbop

Alice + Olivia Karolina Paneled Maxi Dress $695 Buy Now At Net-A-Porter

Alice + Olivia Karolina Paneled Maxi Dress $695 $278 Buy Now At Alice + Olivia

Best Lace Dress for Spring

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

For Love & Lemons Cayne Maxi Dress $288 $201.60 Buy Now At Shopbop

Best Lace Dress for Plus-Size Women

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

City Chic Trendy Sweet Love Lace Dress $129 $83.49 Buy Now At Macy’s

City Chic Trendy Sweet Love Lace Dress $129 Buy Now At Target

Also Consider: Best Lace Slip Dress

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

Zadig & Voltaire Crystal Lace Dress $498 Buy Now At Farfetch

Best Lace Dress for Vacation

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

Honorine Gilda Lace Dress $325 Buy Now At Net-a-Porter

Best Lace Dress for Formal Occasions

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

Danielle Frankel Lilia Double-Breasted Lace Dress $2,950 Buy Now At Net-a-Porter

Best Designer Lace Dress

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

Oscar de la Renta Guipure Lace Cocktail Dress $5,490 Buy Now At Nordstrom

Oscar de la Renta Guipure Lace Cocktail Dress $5,490 Buy Now At Neiman MArcus

Related:Best Cocktail DressesBest Pink Dresses

Best Lace Dress for Evenings

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

Iro Emsy Patterned-Lace Mini Dress $685 Buy Now At farfetch

Best Lace Dress for Work

Headed to the office and want a lace style that feels professional yet elevated? Look no further than Phillip Lim’s pleated piece that delivers modish modesty. The bonded-lace brings delicacy to the crisp structure of the pleats, and the belt cinches the waist for a fitted feel. This is one of the best white lace dresses, so pair it with loafers or mules to wow at work.

Price upon publish date of this article: $850

Courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman

3:1 Phillip Lim Lace Pleated Midi Dress $850 Buy Now At Bergdorf Goodman

3:1 Phillip Lim Lace Pleated Midi Dress $850 Buy Now At Farfetch

When choosing a lace dress, there are multiple factors to consider. The most important are material, style, and occasion.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sign up for WWD news straight to your inbox every day