15 Types of Lace Fabric: A Sourcing Guide for Designers

Navigating the complex world of bridal textiles? This guide categorizes the 15 essential lace types, comparing texture, price points, and best applications to help you make informed sourcing decisions.

1. Classic European Lace Types

The foundation of bridal couture. If you are designing for the luxury market, these are your go-to references for elegance and tradition.

1. Chantilly Lace

Features intricate floral patterns outlined with "cordonnet" on a semi-transparent net ground. Very delicate.

Best For: Veils & Overlays

2. Alençon Lace

"Queen of lace." Features raised motifs on fine net backgrounds, creating substantial weight ideal for structure.

Best For: Structured Bodices

3. Guipure Lace

Also known as Venetian lace. Offers bold patterns without net backgrounds. Motifs connect directly to each other.

Best For: Boho Styles

4. Venetian Lace

Heavy needlepoint lace featuring geometric patterns and high relief work. Very luxurious and substantial.

Best For: High-End Couture

2. Modern Synthetic & Technical Laces

Contemporary manufacturing allows for laces that offer superior durability, stretch, and cost-effectiveness without sacrificing beauty.

5. Stretch Lace

Incorporates elastane or spandex fibers. Essential for comfortable fitting garments that need to move with the body.

Best For: Lingerie & Sleeves

6. Embroidered Lace

Patterns are stitched onto a base fabric (mesh or tulle). Offers unlimited design possibilities for custom patterns.

Best For: Custom Motifs

7. Beaded Lace

Combines traditional grounds with sequins, pearls, and crystals. Heavy and glamorous, requiring careful handling.

Best For: Evening Gowns

8. Metallic Lace

Threads are wrapped in metallic foil or made from metallic fibers (Lurex) to create a shimmering effect.

Best For: Party Wear

3. Application-Specific Laces

These laces are chosen based on the specific visual effect or structural requirement of the garment.

9. 3D Floral Lace

Laser-cut petals or appliqués are attached to the tulle base to create real dimension and volume.

Best For: Modern Bridal

10. Sequin Lace

Similar to beaded lace but focused exclusively on light-reflecting sequins for maximum sparkle.

Best For: Prom Dresses

11. Crochet Lace

Mimics hand-hooked knitting. Has an open, breathable construction with a bohemian aesthetic.

Best For: Summer Casual

12. Chemical Lace

Embroidered on a soluble stabilizer that is washed away, leaving only the thread pattern. Very clean edges.

Best For: Trims & Edging

4. Specialty & Hand-Crafted Styles

For projects requiring unique textures or historical accuracy, these specialty laces offer distinct advantages.

13. Rhinestone Lace

Combines lace fabric with precision-placed crystal elements for high-impact shine and luxury weight.

Best For: Pageant Gowns

14. Tatting Lace

A durable lace made of knots and loops. Historically used for doilies and collars, now a vintage detail.

Best For: Vintage Details

15. Bobbin Lace

Made by braiding and twisting lengths of thread wound on bobbins. Complex and historically significant.

Best For: Heritage Reproduction