Guipure is more than just a lace — it is a culture. The name comes from the French guipure meaning "wrapped", referring to the 15th-century technique where motifs were braided from threads wrapped around copper wire. Today guipure is the most recognisable lace in bridal fashion: dense, three-dimensional, with bold motifs of flowers, leaves and geometry. It works equally well in the bridal gown and in the wedding venue decor. This guide covers everything about using guipure for a modern wedding.
What is guipure
Guipure is a dense three-dimensional lace without a net foundation. Motifs (flowers, leaves, geometric shapes) are joined by thin "brides" (bridges). Unlike Chantilly or tulle laces, guipure holds its shape, does not stretch, and looks "luxurious" even in budget-friendly grades.
6 main types of guipure
1. French guipure (Chantilly)
The most delicate and most expensive. Woven from fine threads, mostly floral motifs with a scalloped edge. Price USD 22–40/m. Couture brands choose this one.
2. Spanish guipure
Denser, with bold geometric or floral motifs. Often blended with elastane — drapes the body well. Price USD 14–25/m.
3. Austrian guipure
Famous for its 3D effect — motifs raised by 1–2 mm. Often with metallic threads. Perfect for bodices. Price USD 16–30/m.
4. Schiffli guipure
Machine-embroidered on water-soluble base. The most affordable type (USD 9–16/m), with a wide pattern selection. Suits budget bridal gowns.
5. Corded guipure
A heavier "cord" thread outlines each motif, creating a relief effect. Price USD 19–32/m. A trend for 2026.
6. Guipure with crystals and beads
Premium grade with hand-applied Swarovski crystals, pearls, beads. Price from USD 32/m to USD 130+ for hand-finished couture.
Properties of guipure
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Composition | Polyester, viscose, cotton, silk, +elastane |
| Density | 80–200 g/m² |
| Width | 130–150 cm |
| Transparency | Partial (between motifs) |
| Stiffness | Medium — high |
| Stretch | Depends on type (with elastane — yes) |
| Care | Delicate wash 30 °C, no spin |
Guipure in the bridal outfit
- Bodice — fully guipure or with insets
- Sleeves — long sheer or triangular "wing" sleeves
- Back — V-cut or full guipure back
- Top overlay — guipure over satin
- Train — guipure train with scalloped edge
- Cape / bolero — for chilly weddings
- Veil with guipure trim — a detail that transforms the look
Inter Tex tip: for the bridal gown choose guipure in ivory — it suits most skin tones and looks more luxurious than pure white. Choose pure white only if the satin underlay is also pure white.
Guipure in wedding venue decor
- Chair covers — guipure drapes on the chair backs
- Arch decor — guipure draping
- Tablecloths and overlays — guipure layered over solid linen
- Gift bag decoration — guipure ribbons
- Bridesmaids' table decor — guipure napkins
- Cake decor — pastry-grade fondant guipure
- Pillar candles — guipure wrapped around large candles
Guipure vs other types of lace
| Parameter | Guipure | Chantilly | Macramé | Tulle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3D effect | High | Low | Very high | None |
| Transparency | Partial | High | Low | High |
| Stiffness | Medium-high | Low | High | Low |
| Price (USD/m) | 9–40 | 22–40 | 14–32 | 1.6–5.4 |
| Best for | Bodice, decor | Couture skirt | Boho style | Veil, skirt |
Looking for wholesale guipure?
Inter Tex stocks 6 types of guipure in many colours. Width 130–150 cm. Free swatches. Wholesale from 5 m.
How to sew with guipure: 5 tips
- Fine needles 70/80 — thicker ones leave holes.
- Lay out by motif — large flowers on the bodice, small ones on the skirt.
- Always line — satin or silk in matching tone.
- Do not overlock the scalloped edge — it is a finished edge.
- Sew with a small stitch on the machine, or by hand for invisible seams.
Mistake: ironing on the highest setting. Polyester guipure melts at 130 °C. Always use the synthetic setting (1 dot) through a press cloth.
How to wash and care for guipure
Wash: hand wash in cool water with a delicate detergent, or machine wash in a mesh bag at 30 °C, no spin. Dry: flat on a towel, in the shade. Iron: from the back through a press cloth on the synthetic setting. Storage: finished gown — in a garment bag on wide hangers.
Guipure pricing in 2026
| Type of guipure | Price USD/m | Segment |
|---|---|---|
| Schiffli (machine embroidery) | 9–16 | Budget |
| Spanish | 14–25 | Mid |
| Austrian | 16–30 | Mid+ |
| Corded | 19–32 | Premium |
| French (Chantilly) | 22–40 | Premium |
| With Swarovski crystals | 32–130+ | Couture |
Inter Tex carries guipure in white, ivory, champagne, blush, black and even bright colours. Wholesale from 5 m — 15–20% discount. Free 5×5 and 10×10 cm swatches.
