• Woven dress
• Embroidered lace bodice, asymmetrical solid draped panel at front, tonal top stitching, panel seaming
• Hidden back zipper with hook and eye closure
• 26 inches in circumference at bust; 26 inches in circumference at waist; 35 inches from shoulder to hemline; Measurements were taken from a size 4
• Model's height is 5 feet 9½ inches; bust 33 inches; waist 24 inches; hips 34 inches
• Dry clean only

Brand: Valentino

Material: 100% nylon shell. 97% viscose and 3% elastane combo

Origin: Italy

Is there anything under the sun more ladylike than lace? As Miuccia Prada once said, it's the most important fabric in a woman's life, with her at birth, marriage, and everywhere in between. There's no milestone required to wear it this season—a backyard barbecue or a weekend by the sea will do just fine. And don't underestimate how versatile a lace dress can be, transforming from coquette to vixen with a quick flip of the accessories. Get inspired by the many ways to wear this favorite summer number, then snag a lace dress of your own in the sale below.

—TRACEY LOMRANTZ LESTER, Editorial Director

Valentino's signature shade, red, has been a hallmark of his enduring elegance and glamour for over a half-century. Designer Valentino Garavani's romantic dresses, gowns, and handbags combine the best of Italian and French craftsmanship. Fittingly, Valentino has received top honors from the presidents of both countries. Few labels capture the imagination of the world’s fashion elite so effortlessly, and fewer still do so over decades, but the Valentino label thrives, continuing to innovate even after the designer's official retirement. In 2011, the label made true history with the launch of the Valentino Garavani Virtual Museum.