Lace tights, once a forgotten relic of ‘80s aerobics wear, are taking a stride down the world’s most celebrated runways. At Rotate’s SS24 showcase, they peeked out under structured mini dresses. Balmain played them up with corset tops and thigh-high boots, while Mugler dared to experiment, layering the lace beneath sheer skirts for a bold silhouette.
Celebrities, of course, have been quick to pick up on the revival. Kiernan Shipka stepped out in a pair styled with a structured blazer and satin heels, cementing them as an eveningwear staple. Meanwhile, Dua Lipa, ever the risk-taker, paired her lace tights with an oversized denim jacket and combat boots. Even Hailey Bieber gave them her signature model-off-duty treatment, layering a cropped leather jacket over lace tights with pointed stilettos.
In the Victorian era, lace was a marker of luxury, used in everything from gloves to petticoats, reserved for the upper echelons of society. Fast-forward to the 1980s, and they found a rebellious streak.
Madonna turned them into a pop culture phenomenon, pairing them with leather jackets, tulle skirts, and chunky jewelry in her “Like a Virgin” era. Back then, they were daring and defiant, a sartorial scream of independence.
After decades of dormancy, lace tights re-emerged quietly on vintage lovers in 2023 but have recently found themselves back in the mainstream—this time with a modern edge.
The no-longer-an-accessory is trending on TikTok, with creators styling it for everything from high-low casual looks to bold couture-inspired ensembles. Instagram influencers have also leaned into the trend, often pairing lace with monochrome palettes for maximum impact.
