Romantic lace decorating by Jo-Anne Coletti

Innocence of Lace

The allure of lace has captivated the romantic at heart for centuries, whispering quietly to our softer feminine side. Truly the fairest fabric of them all, this delicate veil of romance is most cherished amongst the pure and innocent. Fine Heirloom laces beckons to the hopelessly in love brides to be, a newborn babies christening gown, and a little girls first communion dress, are all celebrations of purity, grace and elegance.

Lace Etiquette

While its not at all proper for a Victorian lady to show off her petticoats, today's collection of lacey pantaloons and lacey under garments can be found peeking from the most unexpected places.

Daily Lace Rituals

Embellish the unexpected with lace. My favorite, adding a bit of nostalgia to a beloved pair of blue jeans or vintage jacket by sewing crocheted trim along the pockets, adding lace and floral fabric patchwork along the cuffs, and the final touch, an abundance of antique buttons.
Dress up your bed each morning with layers and layers of antique lace. Indulge in the comforts of Authentic Antique Linen sheets trimmed in crochet lace to peek out from underneath. Crocheted tablecloths can be used as pretty bed skirts.
Gentle launder bed linens in the sweet fragrance of lavender to enhance its benefits for a peaceful slumber. A nice one to try, Sweet Sheets Lavender Wash and fabric softener by Peace Valley Lavender Farms.
Antique Laces are extremely fragile and delicate. For best results, carefully soak lace with a mild soap recommended for lace and fine linens. A nylon screen placed in the sink is helpful to prevent damage or strain to the delicate fibers. To avoid tears, pat lace dry with a terry towel and lay out doors to dry. Sunlight is natures perfect whitener.

The Feminine Petticoat

Gathering up old vintage textiles is a beautiful and inexpensive way to hide worn sofas and chairs. Take a pretty lace petticoat, or Victorian eyelet skirt and insert a seat cushion inside the opening, while the beauty of the lace drapes over the chair. Layer a vintage crochet tablecloth or lace coverlet over an old sofa to breathe new life into the piece and provide a warm, homespun feeling. Too pretty to pass by, salvage damaged and neglected lace trimming from pillowcases and petticoats and use to edge cupboards and shelf's, accent a window or embellish tea towels and pillows.

Dressing Chambers

A Victorian Ladies Dressing Room captured the essence of feminine elegance. An intimate Place of her own, invites the ageless romance of leisurely time spent dressing, pampering and powdering. Creating thoughtful dressing places of serene beauty, look for antique screens with lace inserts for privacy. Pure white cotton dresses to hang on doors and windows for a bit of interest. Petticoats & pantaloons to drape over chairs and vanities. Pretty perfume bottles, powder puffs and toiletries to enhance a woman's senses. Filter the rooms light with delicate lace panels on windows and lace hankies draped over lampshades for a soft feminine touch.

A Ladies closet can never have enough lace. Nurture your feminine spirit by including something lacey in your morning dressing ritual. Choose pretty soft hues to bring out your gentler side.

Lace In The Garden

Fancy in Lace, a Romantic Garden Statue brought indoors emulates the peacefulness and spender of the garden. Embrace the summer's warmth by bringing your lace outdoors with cozy hammocks dressed in crisp whites, Adirondack chairs and iron benches layered with ruffled euro shams and lace skirts. I can't think of a lovelier way to surround yourself with beauty.