Broderie Anglaise
Broderie Anglaise
A whitework embroidery technique featuring small, oval cutouts surrounded by stitching, creating a fresh, romantic look.
What Is Broderie Anglaise?
Broderie anglaise (literally "English embroidery") is a form of whitework where small holes are punched or cut into fabric and then finished with dense satin stitching around each opening. The result is a pattern of decorative eyelets -- usually oval or teardrop-shaped -- arranged in floral or geometric designs. Traditionally worked on white cotton or linen, it is now produced by machine on a variety of base fabrics including cotton-polyester blends.
In lingerie, broderie anglaise brings a clean, sweet aesthetic that sits somewhere between lace and plain cotton. The eyelet holes provide subtle breathability and a hint of skin-reveal without being overtly sheer. This makes it a popular choice for bralettes, camisoles, and matching brief sets that feel romantic but not overly provocative -- ideal for gifting when you want something pretty and versatile rather than dramatic.
When evaluating quality, examine the stitching around the cutouts. It should be tight, even, and satin-smooth with no loose thread ends. Pull gently at a cutout edge -- on quality fabric, the stitching holds firm. On cheap versions, the raw fabric inside the hole frays quickly after a few washes. The base fabric should feel soft with a clean hand, not starchy or papery.
Sinderella incorporates broderie anglaise detailing on select bra sets for a romantic, summery look that breathes well in warm weather.
How to Wear & Style
Broderie anglaise bralettes look beautiful peeking out from under loose linen shirts or off-shoulder tops -- the eyelet texture complements natural-fibre outerwear perfectly. As a gift, a white broderie anglaise set feels fresh and universally flattering. For a honeymoon or bridal look, pair with a matching cotton robe. Avoid wearing broderie anglaise under dark, clingy fabrics where the hole pattern will show through as bumpy texture -- it works best under loose, light-coloured layers.
Lingerie Featuring Broderie Anglaise
Delicate eyelet embroidery that adds a fresh, romantic touch to bra sets and camisoles.
Browse Bra SetsFrequently Asked Questions
What is broderie anglaise?
A whitework embroidery technique featuring small, oval cutouts surrounded by stitching, creating a fresh, romantic look.
Is broderie anglaise the same as eyelet lace?
They are closely related. Eyelet is the broader term for any fabric with punched and stitched holes. Broderie anglaise specifically refers to the traditional technique where the cutouts are oval-shaped and surrounded by overcast (satin) stitching, usually on cotton or linen. Most eyelet lingerie on the market today is technically broderie anglaise or a machine version of it.
Does broderie anglaise shrink when washed?
If the base fabric is cotton, it can shrink slightly in hot water. Wash in cold or lukewarm water on a gentle cycle to preserve both the embroidery and the dimensions. The stitched edges around each cutout are the weakest point, so avoid high-spin cycles that can pull the threads loose.