HOW TO:
Choose & Style a Wedding Veil
The traditional finishing touch to a wedding-day ensemble, a veil is the accessory guaranteed to make you feel like a bride. From short and sweet to long and dramatic, there are many types of wedding veil styles to choose from, and each one brings its own unique personality to your gown. We'll guide you through the ins and outs of wedding veil types to help you find the perfect style for your big day.
How to Choose a Wedding Veil Length
Selecting the perfect veil length is more than just a finishing touch – it's a beautiful extension of your bridal style. Whether you're dreaming of a sweeping cathedral veil for a grand, formal affair or a playful birdcage for a chic city ceremony, your veil should harmonize with your dress, the venue, and the vibe of your big day. Think about how the veil complements your gown’s silhouette and the setting – whether you're exchanging vows under a canopy of trees or in a classic ballroom. The right veil length enhances not just your look but the entire atmosphere, creating a cohesive and memorable bridal ensemble.
Types of Wedding Veils
CATHEDRAL VEIL
A cathedral veil is the epitome of bridal elegance, cascading down to create a sweeping train that adds a regal touch to your wedding look. With its dramatic length – typically extending 108 to 120 inches – this veil makes a stunning statement as it trails behind you, perfect for the grandest of entrances. It pairs beautifully with an A-line wedding dress or a ball gown, accentuating their timeless silhouettes while adding an extra layer of sophistication. Whether you're walking down the aisle of a majestic cathedral or through an enchanting garden, a cathedral veil elevates your bridal ensemble to royal heights.
CHAPEL VEIL
A chapel veil strikes the perfect balance between elegance and ease, offering a touch of timeless romance without the drama of a longer train. With a chapel veil length that typically extends just beyond the hem of your gown, it's a versatile choice that beautifully complements a variety of styles, from a classic wedding dress to more modern silhouettes. This veil adds a subtle, graceful flow to your ensemble, making it an ideal option for brides who want a traditional look without feeling too weighed down. Whether you're saying 'I do' in a garden, a ballroom, or a quaint chapel, the chapel veil effortlessly ties your entire bridal look together with a refined, graceful touch.
FINGERTIP VEIL
A fingertip veil adds a dash of romance to your bridal look, offering just enough length to create a dreamy silhouette without being too dramatic. With a length that falls softly to your fingertips, it’s the perfect match for any gown, whether you're wearing a delicate lace wedding dress or something more modern. This veil’s practicality shines through – it's easy to move in and doesn’t compete with your dress, making it a lovely choice for brides who want to feel elegant and effortless at the same time.
BLUSHER VEIL
A blusher veil brings a touch of timeless romance and mystery to your bridal look, with its enchanting length of around 30 to 36 inches that delicately covers your face. This classic piece is often used during the ceremony to add a hint of allure as you make your entrance. Perfect for complementing a strapless wedding dress, the blusher veil creates a captivating frame that highlights the beauty of your gown while adding an element of intrigue. It’s a charming way to evoke a sense of anticipation and elegance, making your moment at the altar all the more unforgettable.
How to Wear a Veil
Wearing a veil is all about striking the perfect balance between style and elegance. Start by choosing a veil that complements your hairstyle – whether you're going for an updo, loose waves, or a sleek look, ensure the veil enhances rather than competes with your chosen 'do. When it comes to your dress, think about how the veil will interact with its details. For a gown with intricate embellishments, opt for a simpler veil that won’t overshadow the dress’s beauty. Conversely, if your dress is more understated, a veil with a touch of sparkle or lace can add just the right amount of drama. Ultimately, the goal is to create a cohesive, stunning look that feels uniquely you.
How to Wear a Veil with Your Hair Down
Wearing a veil with your hair down is a perfect way to achieve a dreamy, romantic look. To ensure your veil stays secure and complements your loose, flowing hairstyle, start by choosing a veil with a lightweight, flexible structure that won’t weigh down your locks. Position the veil at the crown of your head or just above the nape of your neck, depending on how you want it to frame your face. Secure it with discreet bobby pins or a comb, tucking it into your hair in a way that blends seamlessly with your natural waves. For a touch of added elegance, consider a veil with subtle details like delicate beading or lace that softly highlights your hairstyle without overwhelming it. This approach lets your hair’s natural beauty shine through while adding an ethereal finish to your bridal ensemble.
Why Do Brides Wear Veils?
The tradition of wearing veils traces back centuries, rooted in both historical and symbolic significance. Historically, veils were worn to ward off evil spirits, often in ceremonies meant to protect the bride on her journey to a new life. Over time, this custom evolved to represent the transition from one stage of life to another, adding a touch of mystique and grace to the bridal ensemble. Today, modern brides have the freedom to reinterpret this tradition in their own unique way. Whether opting for a classic look or a contemporary twist, the veil can be a personal statement that reflects individual style and modern sensibilities. It’s an opportunity to blend timeless elegance with personal flair, making the veil a meaningful and memorable part of your wedding day.
Who Lifts the Bride's Veil?
Traditionally, the veil is lifted by the groom during the wedding ceremony, often as a symbolic gesture of unveiling and acknowledgment, usually at the altar just before the vows are exchanged. For modern brides looking to put a fresh spin on this tradition, there are plenty of creative options. Some couples might choose for the bride to lift the veil herself as a statement of personal empowerment, while others might opt for a shared moment where both partners lift the veil together, symbolizing their equal partnership. You could also consider having a loved one, like a parent or close friend, take on this role to add a personal touch to the ceremony. Whatever you choose, the veil remains a beautiful tradition with room for personal expression.
When Should a Bride take Off the Veil?
Deciding when to take off your veil is all about balancing comfort with style. Traditionally, many brides choose to remove their veil after the ceremony, transitioning into a more relaxed and practical look for the reception. This is a great opportunity to switch up your ensemble and move freely while enjoying the festivities. If you prefer to keep the veil on for part of the reception, consider adjusting it to a more relaxed position, or opt for a lighter, simpler style that complements your look without hindering your comfort. Ultimately, it's your day to shine, so feel free to adapt the timing of your veil removal to match your personal style and the flow of your celebration.
Should a Bride Wear a Veil?
Deciding whether or not to wear a veil is a deeply personal choice that hinges on your style and wedding vision. On the plus side, a veil can add a touch of timeless elegance and drama to your look, making for memorable photos and a classic bridal appearance. It’s a beautiful tradition that can enhance the overall atmosphere of your wedding. However, if you’re aiming for a more relaxed or modern vibe, or if practicality is a priority, skipping the veil might be the perfect choice. Without a veil, you have more freedom to move and dance, and you might find it easier to embrace a minimalist or contemporary style. Consider how each option aligns with your vision for the day, and trust your instincts to guide you to the choice that feels just right for you.