By Aliyah Olowolayemo
Lace used to be the fabric of heirlooms—neatly tucked away in your grandma’s wardrobe, reserved for church services, society weddings, and the occasional “big event” in the family. In Nigeria, it was synonymous with Aso Ebi prestige—elaborate, intricate, and expensive. But lace has undergone a major rebrand. No longer just dainty or demure, it’s now sheer, sultry, sporty, sometimes punk, and often unapologetically edgy.
Fashion has dusted off the old lace narrative and spun it into something fresh—less Victorian modesty, more modern confidence. Thanks to runway reinventions and the street style scene, lace has evolved from being “special occasion only” to everyday slay. Whether you’re heading to a fashion event or simply brunching in Lekki, there’s a lace look with your name on it. Here’s your updated style guide to lace in 2025—and how to wear it without looking like you raided a vintage store for your auntie’s 60th birthday outfit.
- Sheer Lace Dresses Are the New Eveningwear
Let’s get this out of the way: Yes, lace is now extremely sheer—and proudly so. From the Grammys to private rooftop parties in Lagos, floor-length lace dresses are making bold entrances. They’re sexy, romantic, and a little dangerous. The trick is all in the styling: think visible high-waist briefs and bralettes, or layering with solid slips that still let the pattern peek through.
2. Lace Tops, But Make It Daytime
There was a time when lace tops were for bridal showers or your mum’s friend’s 50th birthday. Now? They’re street-style staples. Pair a fitted lace blouse with cargo pants and sneakers, or layer a sheer long-sleeved number over a bralette and tuck into high-waisted jeans. Add gold hoops, layered necklaces, and maybe even a leather jacket.
3. Lingerie-Inspired Lace Is Now Streetwear
Thanks to the TikTok generation and fashion’s obsession with Y2K nostalgia, lingerie-inspired lace has spilled over into streetwear. Lace-trimmed camisoles, slips, and baby-doll dresses are layered over tees or under oversized blazers. Channel your inner ’90s Kate Moss with a Gen Z remix: combat boots, messy buns, and tiny shoulder bags—the more unexpected the combo, the cooler the result.
4. Lace Trousers? Yes, Really.
We know—it sounds like a risky move. But lace trousers are having a fashion moment. Sheer and tailored, they’re a power statement. Go monochrome with a matching lace shirt, or tone them down with an oversized tee or utility jacket. Add chunky sandals or barely-there heels, depending on your vibe.
5. Traditional Lace, Reimagined
In Nigeria, lace has never gone out of style. It’s a cultural staple, from weddings to coronations. But even our beloved Aso Ebi is getting a refresh. Designers are creating modern silhouettes—think asymmetric blouses, corseted iro and buba combos, lace dresses with detachable sleeves, and vibrant non-traditional colour palettes.
6. Don’t Sleep on Lace Accessories
If a full lace outfit feels like too much, there’s always a subtler route. Accessories are an easy way to dip your toe in. Lace gloves, tights, headbands, and even socks are making a comeback—yes, even in hot climates. They add texture and visual interest to a look, especially when styled cleverly. Lace gloves with a sleeveless slip dress? Instant drama. Sheer lace socks with mules or pumps? Fashion girl detail. These little touches go a long way.
7. Lace Meets Sporty? Surprisingly Chic
If you love contrasts, this one’s for you. Fashion is embracing the unexpected—lace meets streetwear meets sporty. Picture this: a lace bodysuit under a tracksuit set, or a mesh-lace hybrid paired with sneakers and a bum bag. The beauty of this trend lies in its ability to marry softness with structure and hyper-femininity with a tomboy edge. It’s giving “don’t box me in” energy, and we’re here for it.
