Gone are the days when lace was reserved solely for lingerie drawers or daring nights out. It may once have been considered too risqué for every day, but we now live in a world where lace has well and truly infiltrated our wardrobes – appearing as an added detail on the hems of satin skirts or dancing along necklines of blouses. In fact, lace has taken on a whole new role of femininity and chicness. But the trick can be knowing how to style it for everyday wear.
Enter, Olivia Kali Ayres, a London-based fashion stylist, with a background working with some of the biggest names in the industry including Net-A-Porter, Stella McCartney and Burberry. With an expert eye, Olivia shows us how to style one of 2025’s biggest fashion trends and make it work for every occasion.
You can also follow Olivia for more styling inspo at @oliviaayresx on Instagram.
How to Style Lace with Denim
Denim is a great way to tone down a lace look. Pairing lace with your favourite jeans instantly gives a more relaxed feel, making it more appropriate for the day without scrimping on looking put together. This is a look you might’ve seen a lot during the recent spring/summer 2026 shows – from Ermanno Scervino and Ulla Johnson to Stella McCartney and Zimmermann.
Layering Lace with Trousers and Knitwear
For Olivia, this is her go-to fail-safe option. Want to look chic and effortless? Layering a lace piece with trousers and a fine knit jumper is the way to go and makes for an ideal autumn outfit. It’s a great solution for office-appropriate wear, whilst still maintaining a fashion-forward approach.
How to Wear Lace with a Blazer
If you are looking for lace outfit ideas, try adding an oversized blazer for that androgynous contrast. The structure of the blazer offsets the femininity of the lace, creating a balanced outfit, while it still remaining dressy. It also adds an element of sophistication and modesty. Extra points if the blazer has shoulder pads!
Lace Outfits With Leather
For evening wear or a night out, Olivia loves pairing lace with leather, noting the juxtaposition between tougher materials and more romantic ones. It brings a touch of coolness to the look and is Olivia’s go-to for an evening out. Saint Laurent is the perfect example of this.
How to Layer Lace Over a T-Shirt
This look is easy, laid-back, yet still on trend. Layering the lace over the top of a plain tee helps to keep the focus still on the main piece whilst also adding an air of interest and unexpectedness.
The Bottom Line: Lace is Here to Stay So Shop These Must-Have Pieces
Take this as your sign to add lace to your wardrobe. Whether you’re dressing it up or keeping it casual, lace has proven to be one of the most adaptable fabrics of the decade. The options are endless!
Topshop Asymmetric Top With Lace
M&S Satin Skirt With Lace
Nobody’s Child Lace Cami Top
Massimo Dutti Contrast Lace Skirt
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