Lace Bras

Journelle carries lace bras in four main lace constructions. Stretch lace is the most common — soft, flexible, and comfortable for all-day wear, with enough give that it doesn't dig in at the edges. Guipure lace is heavier and more graphic, with bold geometric or floral patterns and minimal stretch — it's more of a statement fabric. Floral lace is the classic: a net ground with woven floral motifs, lighter and more delicate than guipure. Embroidered mesh is sheer tulle with a lace-like embroidered pattern on top — less structured than traditional lace but just as beautiful, and often the softest option.

Yes — stretch lace bras are well suited to everyday wear. The fabric softens with washing and is comfortable for extended periods. Unlined lace bras breathe better than padded smooth styles, which makes them a good choice for warmer months. If you're planning to wear a lace bra daily, look for stretch lace rather than guipure, which is stiffer and less forgiving. A well-fitted lace bra should be just as comfortable as a smooth one.

Lace adds texture that can show through thin or fitted fabrics in a way that smooth microfibre won't. For wear under light-coloured tops, look for stretch lace in a skin tone close to your own, or for a style with a lining layer in the cups. For wear under looser or heavier fabrics, or as part of an outfit where the bra is visible, unlined lace in black, ivory, or a bold colour is the better choice. Guipure lace in particular has a raised pattern that can be visible under very thin fabrics — stretch lace or embroidered mesh are more discreet options.

Hand wash in cool water with a gentle lingerie detergent — this is the safest method and will extend the life of the lace significantly. If you prefer to machine wash, use a mesh laundry bag on a delicate cycle with cool water. Never put a lace bra in the dryer: the heat degrades elastic, warps underwires, and breaks down lace fibres. Lay flat to dry instead. Avoid wringing or twisting the bra, which distorts the lace structure and can bend underwires. Store bras with cups nested, not folded flat, to keep the shape.

The primary difference is fabric and construction. A lace bra uses woven or knitted lace for the cup, which means the cup is less structured than a moulded foam style but typically more decorative. Fine lace bras from European houses like Chantelle, Simone Pérèle, and Aubade use Calais or Caudry lace — woven on century-old Leavers looms in northern France — which is softer, more durable, and holds its shape differently from the stretch Raschel lace used in most mass-market lingerie.

Lace bras size identically to standard bras — band measurement around the ribcage, cup based on the difference between bust and band measurement. One difference worth noting: fine lace has less elastic recovery than smooth microfibre, so if you're between band sizes, size down. The band should feel firm at the loosest hook when new. If you're unsure, our fitters offer free in-store fittings and can fit you in both sizes so you can feel the difference.

Our lace bra edit covers balconette, demi, plunge, full coverage, and bralette styles in sizes AA through G cup. We carry fine Calais lace pieces from Chantelle, Simone Pérèle, Aubade, Lise Charmel, and Fleur of England, as well as pieces from Bluebella and the Journelle Collection. Most lace styles in our inventory are available in black, nude, and ivory; seasonal colorways vary by brand.