Glories of Lace

I used to think I was born in the wrong century... There's nothing sweeter than a little girl in a lacy dress. You can't get them anywhere nowadays - you have to sew them yourself - or find someone who can. Laces aren't as readily available either, let alone QUALITY laces. Whenever we visit England, I make a point to get to Nottingham where I can find the prettiest cotton net lace. I have a tiny stash here at the house for making Christening gowns.

The dress above (from Sew Beautiful Magazine) is a reproduction of the designer's grandmother's dress. She purchased netting and embroidered the lace pattern onto the garment by hand - a LOT of work. You can find pretty net lace on Martha Pullen's website. Unfortunately, the manufacturers in Nottingham haven't caught up to the 21st century - you actually have to go there in order to get some... Louise Verscheuren has gorgeous Belgian lace veils, mantillas and christening gowns. They are expensive, but worth every penny for a treasured heirloom. I bought a veil from her when our oldest made her First Communion, and it's been worn twice so far. I would be pleased to see all of our girls wear it again on their wedding days!

I'm hoping to make co-ordinating lacy outfits for the three girls and myself for a portrait later this year... stay tuned!