While many trends have ruled the year, one descriptor that immediately comes to mind when summing up 2022 is "see-through." It has definitely been the moment for risk-takers—from delicate mesh knits to unlined slip skirts, skin-revealing pieces have been dominating every corner of the fashion landscape. Yet another racy trend that has recently emerged (and seemingly out of nowhere) is the return of black lace.
While lace as a trend is hardly anything new, it's hard to ignore just how prevalent the motif has been among fashion It girls as of late. Bella Hadid wore a lacy black dress for her birthday celebrations last month, styling it with a leather jacket and black undergarments. Her outfit showcases just how this "grandma" trend has been transformed into one of the most controversial right now: Instead of the motif playing second fiddle as a trim or overlaying piece, designers have made sheer black lace the main star, using the material for unlined dresses, blouses, and even pants.
Among the designers to give the trend a big high fashion boost include Saint Laurent and Alaia, who both have included black lacy flared pants and tops within their fall-winter runway collections. Needless to say, the buzz over black lace is only going to up from here. If you're looking for ways to wear it IRL, I've included all of the best pieces on the market now, as well as some outfit inspiration below.
If you look closely, you'll notice the pretty butterfly details.
Lace tights are always a classic, but now's the time to remix them in an experimental way.
The ruching here is a cool touch.
Wear a black tank top underneath for added coverage.
This closely resembles Saint Laurent's version, which is primarily why this blouse is already in my cart.
You could also go with a collared version for a more polished approach.
This is selling out quickly.
As seen above, fashion girls have fully embraced lace pants into their winter party wardrobes.
A part of Mango's collection with influencer Camille Charriere, this minidress looks so expensive.
Ruffles really amplify the romance of this piece.
If high-waisted pants are a regular part of your uniform, you'll want to go with a blouse in a cropped length.
According to the product description, this cami comes with some subtle shaping.
Lace pants are for the bold, but what's fashion without risk?
I'll be wearing this all holiday season.
You'll want to find some good undergarments to wear with this.
For those not ready to completely dive into black lace, consider this shrug an appetizer.
Fashion people love a black lace catsuit.
Wear it as a cami or a minidress.
I've been dreaming about this dress since forever.
This top highlights how versatile this trend can really be: Style it with jeans or tailored trousers and it looks just as elegant.
I'm just waiting on someone like Bella Hadid to wear this.
As racy as the black lace trend is, here's a more approachable way to wear it IRL.
The pants that started it all.
You honestly can never go wrong with Alaia.
A girl can dream.
Next: Sheer Knits: The "Naked" Trend That Will Take Over in 2023
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