Choosing lace is the single biggest design decision in a wedding gown — it sets the price, the silhouette, and the photographs. Here's the guide we give designers and DIY brides at our Los Angeles Fashion District store, where we stock Lace USA's full bridal line.
The three main bridal lace types
Embroidered lace has its motifs stitched onto a fine net ground. It's the most versatile: florals, vines, and geometric designs with beautiful scalloped borders, at the friendliest prices for full-yardage gowns and overlays.
Corded lace adds a raised cord outlining every motif. That relief catches light and shadow, giving gowns dimension in photos — the "couture" look. Slightly stiffer hand; superb for structured bodices and mermaid skirts.
Beaded & corded lace layers hand-sewn beads, sequins, or pearls over corded motifs. Maximum luxury and sparkle. It's heavier, so plan support in the bodice, and always line it — the beaded back needs a barrier against skin.
How much lace does a wedding dress need?
- Lace bodice with fabric skirt: 1.5–2 yards
- Full lace overlay gown: 4–5 yards
- Lace-trimmed cathedral veil: 3–4 yards of edging or matching appliqués
- Sleeves and back details: add 0.5–1 yard
Buy all your lace at once from the same bolt — dye lots vary, and ivory tones especially can mismatch between production runs.
Using appliqués to stretch your budget
A designer trick: build the gown in a quality satin or crepe, then place beaded appliqués at the bodice, waist, and hem. You get the beaded-lace look at a fraction of full-yardage cost — and your veil can carry matching appliqués so the set coordinates perfectly.
Planning your scallops
Most bridal laces carry a scalloped selvage. Lay out your pattern so scallops fall at hemlines, necklines, and sleeve edges — a finished scallop needs no hemming and looks intentional. This affects yardage, so map it before cutting.
White, ivory, or champagne?
Under warm light, true white can read cold and blue in photos; most brides photograph best in ivory. Hold candidate laces against the dress base fabric in daylight — lace over satin shifts a full shade warmer.
FAQ
What is the difference between corded and embroidered lace?
Embroidered lace is flat stitching on net; corded lace adds a raised outline cord around each motif for dimension. Beaded lace adds bead and pearl work on top of either.
Can I mix lace types in one gown?
Yes — keep the motif family consistent (all florals of similar scale) and match undertones. A corded bodice with embroidered skirt panels is a classic combination.
How do I care for beaded lace?
Dry clean only, specified as hand-finished beadwork. Store flat or rolled — never fold beaded yardage along the same crease for months.
Exquisite Fabric — Lace USA bridal laces, beaded appliqués, and tulle by the yard. 1024 Santee Street, Los Angeles. Est. 1999. Ships worldwide: 213-222-8285.
