Lace has the curse of versatility: It's a fine, fine line between looking dishy and looking like a doily, and nothing kills romance faster than memories of your grandmother's parlor. But assuming you don something that doesn't reek of a Victorian Valentine, lace dresses can be sexy, sweet, or both. White over a nude-colored lining hints at what lies underneath, while black evokes naughty lingerie. We like wearing our lace with edgy ankle booties or a pair of oxfords to avoid looking too doll-like, and avoiding laces in acid-tones and clownish colors—we'll save that look for a Friday night (crave color? Stay tuned! Our red dress roundup is next!). And please, skip the pearls—we're quite sure the last thing your date wants to see is anything that remotely resembles a blushing bride.
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Above, from left: Marc by Marc Jacobs Floral Lace Dress, $209, available at Bloomingdale's; 3.1 Phillip Lim Lace Shift Dress, $750, available at Net-a-Porter.
Above, from left: Topshop Vintage-Inspired Lace Dress, $90, available at Topshop; Kimchi Blue Lace Dress, $60, available at Urban Outfitters
Above, from left: ASOS Lace Mono Two in One Dress, $82, available at ASOS; Thistlepearl Lace Dress, $30, available at Urban Outfitters.
Above, from left: Opening Ceremony Gathered Front Lace Dress, $209.30, available at La Garçonne; Kova & T Madeline Dress, $429, available at Ssense.