At first (see-through) glance, lace might not appear to be the best seasonal update for a Portland wardrobe. But why invest in another waterproof basic when you can add a bit of spirit-lifting flourish to your look? An elegant update to footwear, accessories, and apparel, lace emerged as one of the fall’s top trends, one that’s showing no signs of slowing for spring.

Portland designer Rachel Mara, whose work is sold at Moulé (one of her family’s Canada-based stores), appreciates the beauty and sense of history that lace brings to a garment—such as the dress shown here. “I liked the idea of mixing something so precious and ancient with a contemporary silhouette,” she says. Mission accomplished.