Who isn’t charmed by eyelet fabric? There’s just about nothing more delicate and feminine than a summery eyelet dress. This breathable fabric is embellished with embroidered holes in intricate patterns and can be used on just about any type of clothing, from babydoll dresses to the hems of skirts. Learn all about this timeless style in our guide to eyelet fabric.
Shop the Zelouf eyelet collection in our online store.
What is eyelet fabric?
Simply put, an eyelet is any small, reinforced hole. The term appears across several contexts: in fashion and fabric construction, it refers to embroidered cut-outs in cloth; in hardware, to metal or plastic rings (grommets) that reinforce holes in leather, canvas, or denim; and in footwear, to the small holes through which shoelaces pass. Merriam-Webster and the CDN dictionary both define “eyelet” along these same lines, and the CDN vocabulary entry reinforces the word’s core meaning: a finished, reinforced hole. In all uses, that defining feature holds.
Eyelet fabric specifically is characterized by small patterned cut-outs that are typically finished with embroidered stitches throughout the body of the fabric. This is the broderie anglaise tradition, delicate, open-work embroidery on a woven or knit ground. Eyelet often features a decorative selvage, making it well-suited for creating hems, sleeves, and necklines. In all uses, the defining feature is a finished, reinforced hole.
Why is it called eyelet fabric?
The word comes from the Old French oeillet, the diminutive of oeil, meaning “eye” - or literally “little eye.” The Latin root is oculus, “eye.” The visual metaphor is apt: each small hole in the fabric resembles a tiny eye looking through the cloth, which is why the diminutive “little eye” became the standard term in dictionary English. The word passed into Middle English as oillet before settling into the modern English eyelet by the 17th century. Notably, the same etymology applies whether you’re describing fabric eyelets, metal grommets, or shoelace holes.
What is the history of eyelet fabric?
The eyelet, or broderie anglaise, literally “English embroidery”, is a technique that originates from 16th-century Europe. Presumed to have Central European origins, likely the Czech Republic, it became the dominant name for eyelet embroidery across the continent despite those roots. Its popularity grew substantially during the Victorian era (roughly 1837 - 1901), when eyelet trim became a status marker on women’s undergarments, petticoats, and christening gowns, prized for its delicate appearance. Today, eyelet fabric remains a staple of spring and summer fashion, appearing in collections from fast fashion to ready-to-wear.
Metal eyelets have a parallel history worth noting. Used in sailmaking and leatherwork since at least the 18th century, these grommet-style reinforced holes share the same name and core function as their fabric counterparts, bridging the practical and the decorative across centuries of craft.
Zelouf Camila Eyelet Knit in Luminous Almond
What are the different types of eyelets?
While eyelet fabric is the most fashion-forward use of the term, “eyelet” actually describes any small reinforced hole, and the word appears in several distinct contexts.
Fabric eyelets: Decorative embroidered cut-outs in cotton, voile, or knit grounds, characteristic of broderie anglaise. This is the sense most relevant to garment construction and the one this guide focuses on.
Metal and grommet eyelets: Circular rings, typically brass, steel, or aluminum, pressed into canvas, leather, or denim to reinforce a hole without fraying. Used on bags, shoes, tarpaulins, and banners, these are the hardware sense of the word.
Matte jersey chiffon and similar lightweight fabrics are sometimes finished with metal eyelet hardware for a mixed-media effect in costume and cosplay applications.
Shoelace eyelets: The small holes along the tongue of a shoe or boot through which laces are threaded. These may be reinforced with metal rings or simply punched and stitched, a construction detail familiar to cobblers and footwear designers alike.
Curtain eyelets: Large-diameter rings built into the top of curtain panels, through which a curtain rod passes directly. These are a common home-furnishing application of the same reinforced-hole principle.
In bookbinding, small eyelets are also used to reinforce holes through which cords or ribbons are threaded. Across all these uses, the word “eyelet” carries the same meaning it always has: a small, finished opening that won’t tear or fray under tension.
What are some uses for eyelet fabric?
Eyelet fabric is commonly associated with feminine, romantic styles and is versatile in fashion. Here are some popular pieces that can be made out of eyelet fabric,
Dresses: Eyelet fabric is often used to create charming and delicate dresses. A flowing maxi dress or a sundress with eyelet details can be perfect for a summery and feminine look. The eyelet cut-outs add visual interest and a touch of whimsy to the garment.
Tops and Blouses: Eyelet fabric can be used to make stylish tops and blouses, like a breezy eyelet blouse paired with jeans. An eyelet shirt can make for a casual yet elegant outfit, and eyelet details on the sleeves, neckline, or back of a top can create a beautiful focal point.
Skirts: Eyelet fabric can be used to make skirts that exude a romantic and vintage-inspired vibe. A-line skirts, pleated skirts, or even layered eyelet skirts can be flattering and feminine. Wear them with a simple blouse or pair them with a denim jacket for a more casual look.
Shorts: Eyelet fabric shorts can be a chic, trendy addition to your summer wardrobe. Eyelet shorts offer a stylish alternative to traditional denim shorts and can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Pair them with a tucked-in blouse or a casual T-shirt for a fashionable outfit.
Accessories and embellishments: Eyelet fabric can also be used for smaller fashion accessories, belts, headbands, or delicate scarves. These pieces add a touch of femininity and texture to any look. It’s also worth noting that metal eyelets (grommets) serve as functional hardware on bags, belts, and shoes, bridging the fabric and hardware meanings of the word for designers who work across both. For just a touch of femininity, consider adding an eyelet trim to any garment or accessory.
Remember that eyelet fabric tends to be semi-sheer, so you may need to layer it or add a lining to maintain modesty where necessary. The versatility and delicate nature of eyelet fabric make it a popular choice for feminine, romantic pieces suited to warmer weather or special occasions, including costume and cosplay projects where the open-work texture adds period-accurate detail.
Can you wear eyelet year round?
While eyelet is popular for spring and summer, you can definitely find ways to wear it year-round. To incorporate eyelet in fall or winter pieces, consider darker colors like brown and black, or festive seasonal colors like orange or red.
Pairing textures can also be a playful way to style eyelet in colder months. Try styling an eyelet dress with a leather jacket, or an eyelet skirt with a warm, fuzzy sweater.
Zelouf Rachel Stretch Eyelet Knit in Perfect Peri
Rachel Stretch Eyelet Knit
Zelouf Rachel Stretch Eyelet Knit fabric offers a versatile look and a comfortable fit. Its delicate eyelet-patterned knit offers maximum breathability, and its stretchy texture creates a relaxed yet stylish silhouette. This fabric comes in a variety of colors and is made from a lightweight poly-spandex blend that delivers durability and stretch recovery with every wear.
Stella Eyelet Embroidery Stripe Voile
This voile fabric displays eyelet embroidery for an elegant, textural look. The thin stripes add subtle yet eye-catching detail to a variety of garments, making it well-suited for crafting with a classic-yet-modern feel.
Oscar Print Eyelet Knit
Our Oscar Print Eyelet Knit fabric is an excellent choice for stylish, comfortable pieces. The classic eyelet embellishment adds subtle texture and depth, and the contrasting floral pattern is sure to turn heads. This soft fabric has a bit of stretch and is well-suited for all-day wear.
Moon Eyelet Stretch Lace
Zelouf Moon Eyelet Stretch Lace is well-suited for creating delicate and lightweight finished garments and accessories. The eyelet fabric is stretchy and works well for focal and accent details. Its subtle texture makes it ideal for adding interesting design touches.
For tips for working with lace fabric, visit our helpful
Zelouf Camila Knit Eyelet fabric features a delicate eyelet pattern, perfect for a timeless, elegant look. The airy fabric is lightweight and comfortable, making it a reliable choice for warm summer days. The Camila Knit Eyelet balances open-work texture with comfortable drape, making it ideal for garments and light accessories.
