Cord lace is typically made from cotton or synthetic fibres and comes in a variety of colours, although white and off-white are the most common colours because of their appeal and beauty. In this article, we'll explore the history of cord lace, its unique characteristics, and how it is used in fashion today.
Table Of ContentsWhat is Cord Lace?
Cord lace, also known as Guipure lace, is a type of lace fabric that is characterized by a prominent, raised design that is created by a series of cords or thicker threads that are stitched together. It is often used for dressmaking, especially in African fashion, and is a popular choice for special occasion wear, such as wedding dresses, aso ebi outfits, evening gowns, and formal wear.
History of Cord Lace
Cord lace has a rich history that can be traced back to the
16th century in Europe. It was originally made by hand using a bobbin and
pillow, a technique that is still used today in some areas of the world.
However, with the advent of industrialization, cord lace began to be produced
by machines, making it more accessible and affordable for people around the
world.
In Africa, cord lace has become a popular fabric for
dressmaking, especially for special occasions such as weddings and religious
ceremonies. It is often used in traditional Nigerian attire, where it is known
as "aso ebi" or "family cloth." This tradition involves
groups of family and friends wearing the same fabric as a way of showing
solidarity and unity.
Characteristics of Cord Lace
Cord lace is a delicate and intricate fabric that requires
careful handling during both the sewing and cleaning processes. It is known for
its raised texture and prominent design, which gives it a unique and luxurious
look. Some other characteristics of cord lace include:
1.
Soft and
lightweight: Cord lace is soft and lightweight, making it comfortable to
wear for long periods of time. Although some designs of cord lace made from
wool are heavy but modern designs of the fabric are lightweight and have smooth
texture.
2.
Versatile:
Cord lace can be used to sew variety of garments, including dresses, blouses,
and skirts.
3.
Intricate
design: The raised design of cord lace is what sets it apart from other
types of lace. It often features floral or geometric patterns that are created
by a series of cords or thicker threads.
4.
Careful
handling required: Cord lace is delicate and should be handled with care. It
is recommended that it be hand-washed or dry-cleaned to preserve its delicate
texture and design.
Cord lace in African Fashion
Cord lace is a popular fabric for special occasion wear, particularly in African fashion. It is often used for wedding dresses, evening gowns, and formal wear. In Nigeria, it is also used for traditional attire, such as "iro and buba" (a blouse and wrapper) and "gele" (a head tie).
2. Cord lace is sometimes used for more casual garments, such as blouses and skirts. It can be paired with other fabrics, such as denim, Ankara, Adire or cotton, to create a unique and stylish look.
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3.
It’s recommended to keep accessories paired with
cord lace simple. The fabric is already intricate and eye-catching, so adding
too many accessories can be overwhelming. A simple pair of earrings or a
bracelet is all that's needed to complete the look.
Conclusion
Cord lace is a unique and beautiful fabric that has a rich
history and is still popular today. With its delicate texture, raised design,
and versatility, it's no wonder that it's a favourite among designers and
fashion enthusiasts alike. Overall, cord
lace is a beautiful and versatile fabric that adds a touch of elegance and
sophistication to any garment. We source the best cord lace fabric from the
market at pocket friendly prices.