Chantilly Lace: Not just your grandma’s lace

My grandmother’s table doilies and her Sunday church dress are the first things that come to mind when I think of Chantilly lace. Gentle, soft, and feminine – just like my grandmother. But it’s time for a new outlook on this traditional lace. I’ve been determined to step out of my comfort zone and re-evaluate my preconceived notions. With this new approach in mind, I decided to reinvent how I wear lace. In fact, this time lace would not be so delicate. This time there would be a twist.  Lace will now have a tougher look. Now it’s Chantilly lace with an edge. Probably not grandma approved but sometimes a girl has to break out of her obedient role and introduce a little bit of mischievousness and defiance into her life.

Naughty or Nice: Lace and Leopard

Sugar and spice, naughty and nice, that's what little girls are made of. How do you dress the two sides with one stunning outfit? Masquerading, versatile lace. Feeling subtle, timeless and romantic? Swath yourself in an ivory lace embroidered with delicate beads.  Stepping out for the night in a much more dramatic look? Slip into a black lace with silk accents. No matter how you're feeling or where the night will take you, lace will turn your ensemble from naughty to nice (or vise versa!). And what woman doesn't need an outfit that can express her two sides? 

Though my inner courtesan longed to wear this lace to a grand masquerade ball, I wore it to my office holiday party. Not as grand but still elegant (alas, no invite yet to Orlando's costumed ball).  For this outfit, I paired a black Chantilly lace with an asymmetrical satin shirt and a thin leopard print belt. A touch of class, a touch of wild, all Iris. How do you incorporate lace into your outfits?

Fashion tip: Remember that simplicity is elegant. For a more refined look, I opted for minimal jewelry, my pearl studs and wedding rings were all that I needed. The leopard print speaks for itself.

What I’m Rockin’:

Blouse – A’gaci

Skirt – Gemma via HauteLook

Belt – Forever 21

Shoes – Charles by Charles David via Marshalls