Linda Loves Lace*

By DIY Maven

While at an upscale home decorator fabric store earlier this week, I asked the receptionist/greeter (yes, this shop has a receptionist/greeter) if she could point me in the direction of their lace. A worried look came across her face.

"Oh, I’m afraid we don’t have much lace," she said and then proceeded to escort me to the two options they had, both available in the archetypal white and ecru.

This exchange started me thinking. When did lace lose favor in the world of home decor?

A Generational Thing

First examples of lace, called mummy lace, have been found in Egyptian tombs. From the land of Pharohs, lace-making moved northward through Europe. So important to the economy, France actively seduced lace makers from Italy, who in turn levied sanctions on any lace-traitor who might succumb to France’s courting. So, with all its past popularity, what happened? Of course, lace is still appreciated among brides and Victoria Secret models. I’m sure those Italian craftsmen threatened with assassination if they wouldn’t return from France would be pleased to know this.

An Argument for Lace

Lace doesn’t only provide a peek-a-boo, hide-the-stretch-marks-in-a-sexy-way effect on a woman’s body, it does so to a window as well. Lace curtains drawn over windows with worn moldings and cracked paint still provide ample light. They also provide privacy as they create a mosaic effect from the point of view of would-be peeping Toms.

Lace does double duty in giving texture to a room. Its pattern on the window provides visual interest at the window, and, with the benefit of sun, its motif is cast upon the objects in the room as well.

As sexy as a slinky nightgown, lace diffuses light, softening the edges of any decor. And because it’s generally lighter weight than most window treatment fabrics, lace is more responsive to breeze, thereby providing movement in a room.

Cyber-Lace

For a beautiful selection of anything lace, check out www.decoratingwithlace.com. Particularly lovely are the Cottage, Shabby Chic and Vintage offerings. Also, harking back to the fabric’s roots, take a look at their Scottish examples.

*For further edification regarding the title of this post, go to www.completelindalovelace.com. (And cue the porn music.)

Tagged:
lace curtains shabby-chic

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November 17, 2006

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baconthecat

April 18, 2007

You know, that's very interesting... Now that I think about it, I've hardly seen lace anywhere other than my mother-in-law's house (very country-style with accents of lace here and there)... Hmm. When I was a girl (not so long ago!) I loved the Victorian lace look; I still do, but I think it'd be hard to incorporate it into my current home with the decor we have now (mismatched furniture and all).