Lace is back in the spotlight — and this time, it is bringing more than romance. The fabric is showing up in structured corsets, body-skimming dresses, matching sets and going-out pieces that feel confident, modern and very AFTER FIVE.
Once reserved for lingerie details or special occasions, lace has moved into the wardrobe in a much more wearable way. It can be soft, sharp, sheer, dramatic or barely there. The mood depends on how you style it.
Why the lace trend is back
Fashion always comes back around, but lace never really disappears. It keeps returning because it adds texture to a look instantly. A lace panel can make a simple silhouette feel considered. A full lace dress can turn a night-out outfit into a full entrance.
The new way to wear it is less about looking traditionally pretty and more about contrast. Try delicate lace with structured tailoring, a corset with an oversized jacket, or a romantic dress with a sharper shoe. The tension is what makes the look feel current.
How to style lace for a night out
Make a corset the hero
A lace corset does all the styling work for you. Pair it with a clean mini, wide-leg trousers or a matching skirt and keep the accessories intentional. For a softer finish, add a barely-there heel. For more attitude, go for a strong boot or an oversized blazer.
Let a lace dress do the talking
A lace dress is the easiest route into the trend. Choose one with a sculpted silhouette, keep the jewellery minimal and let the texture carry the look. It works for dinner, drinks, parties and every plan that starts with “just one”.
Try the matching-set approach
Lace separates make the trend feel more flexible. Wear the set together when you want maximum impact, then break it up with denim, tailoring or a simple tank when you want to take the pieces somewhere new.
The AFTER FIVE lace edit
These active pieces feature lace fabric, lace overlay, lace panels, lace trim or genuine lace detailing:
- GEORGIA CORSET TOP
- POSEY DRESS
- LUCEN DRESS
- SLICK DRESS
- LANA CORSET
- LANA SKIRT
- GIGI DRESS
- GLORIA CORSET SET
- GARDENIA CORSET
- SCALA SET
- KYLIE DRESS
- RACHEL CORSET
- CARA SKIRT
- PURPLE DRESS
- GINGER DRESS
- KAISA SKIRT
Our favourite way to wear lace right now
Keep the silhouette fitted, add one unexpected layer and let the fabric bring the drama. Lace is not fragile anymore. It is a statement, a texture and a reason to get dressed up on a night that was never supposed to be a big one.
The lace era is not over. It is just getting better.