Lace looks come back

AT THE NEW YORK MARKET — While soft window covering looks remain as diverse as ever, one particular construction is gradually reappearing in showrooms and gaining popularity — lace.

"Absolutely, no question about it," said Wendy Keryk, president of Richloom Home Fashions window division. "It's a construction that lends itself to the continuation of the textured sheer trend. It's a natural progression."

But, she cautioned, the lace constructions seen this market are not the traditional looks one usually associates with lace, although that segment remains a healthy part of the marketplace. "There are laces that look like burnouts as well as some that have a very intricate weave," Keryk said. "People look at these products now and the word 'lace' never pops into their mind."

The construction has also progressed beyond the traditional white and ivory colors, although both remain in the top spots. This market, expect to see several different colors, such as black, sage green and burgundy, in addition to antiqued colors such as gold. Whatever color coordinates to the color of the rug — which is one of the main factors behind what color consumers purchase for their window coverings — is the driving force.