All About Embroidered Eyelet (Broderie Anglaise)

Summer has arrived. Welcome warmth, longer days, and vacations.  At this time of year, there’s a slight lull in our calendar between the end of school and the beginning of summer activities.  Am I tempted to stay in my pajamas all day?  Surprisingly, no.  After our cold and wet spring, I’m ready to enjoy my summer dresses and strappy sandals. I’ve also been waiting to wear some of my favorite embroidered eyelet pieces. 

 

What Exactly Is Eyelet?  

Technically, the eyelet is a hole in fabric that is finished with stitching (much like a buttonhole) or metal (like a grommet).  In the 16th century, in what is now known as the Czech Republic, stitched eyelets were used to decorate fine fabric.  In the 19th century, this technique became so popular in Britain, it earned the name Broderie Anglaise (which means English embroidery, in French).  Here, in the U.S. we use the term more loosely to indicate a cut-out pattern in fabric or leather.  

 

Embroidered eyelet is delicate and feminine, with just a sprinkle of fun.  This season, I’ve found some gorgeous designs in blouses, skirts, and even shoes! Here are just a few of my favorite ways to wear eyelet…

 

The White Embroidered Eyelet Blouse 

A white or ivory blouse is probably the most common embroidered eyelet piece. I bought my bell-sleeve blouse (in the photo above) from Banana Republic.  It is no longer available, but you can buy a similar blouse by Michael Michael Kors, at Lord & Taylor for only $33.75.  Wear this versatile style with shorts or jeans, or with a pencil skirt and heels.  

If you’re looking for a designer blouse, I love Veronica Beard’s Mili Eyelet Sleeve Top, currently $275.00 at Nordstrom.  This would be a beautiful option for a work paired with wide-leg pants. 

For petite and tall options, take a look at Banana Republic’s eyelet button-down shirt.  

 

Embroidered Eyelet Trim Pants 

Free People’s eyelet pants are lined at the top, peek-a-boo at the bottom.  

If you’re petite, try on Ann Taylor’s eyelet ankle pants.  

Tory Burch’s Keira jean is more subtle and delicate, with eyelet embroidery just at the hem. 

I just bought a pair of eyelet hem pants, but you’ll have to wait to see them in an upcoming post, as that purchase is a story in itself! 

 

Eyelet in Color 

I bought this eyelet skirt a few months ago when I went to NYC for the day.  It’s still available at Uniqlo for $19.90.  

I also love Anthropologie’s Marta tank in orange eyelet.  For a larger size, take a look at Rachel Roy’s Sabine Cotton Eyelet Top.  Either one of these would look fabulous with white jeans or tan pants.  

 

For a fun summer party dress try this Tina Turk Bonita Eyelet Shift Dress or this Joie Corynn One Shoulder Eyelet Dress. 

If you need a more subtle, office-appropriate eyelet, try Ann Taylor’s gorgeous navy eyelet skirt.  Wear it with a white blouse or a lightweight sweater.  

 

Fake Eyelet 

Thanks to technology, we also have laser cut fabric that looks like eyelet (but does not have the embroidery or stitching that would make it a true eyelet).  This is my BCBG dress from a few years ago. I wear it during early summer dinner dates when the evening is cool or the airconditioning is turned up high.  

 

For a dress that is currently available, take a look at Ann Taylor’s laser-cut sheath dress.  

If you’re ready for swimwear, JCrew has an adorable laser cut “eyelet” swimsuit with a halter top.  

 

Eyelet Accessories 

Being the practical, busy, country mom, I find it hard to recommend white eyelet shoes.  However, if you live in a much cleaner environment, Free People’s white eyelet mules are quite darling! 

I love these Anthropologie “fake eyelet” laser cut ballerina slippers and these See By Chloe embroidered eyelet sandals.  Both are a little more practical than fabric shoes! 

How will you wear eyelet this season? I hope you’ll comment below because I love talking about great style! Look out for my Pinterest boards for more items that are available now.  Follow me on Instagram to see the eyelet pieces that I just ordered online.  Happy Summer!

♥ Nipa