Choosing a veil can be surprisingly difficult; mostly because you’ve probably never worn one before, so how do you know what you like? Don’t stress–we’ll break it down for you! When shopping for bridal accessories, the first question most brides ask is, “Do I need a veil?”. The short answer, no, you don’t need a veil, but do you want one? If you don’t want a veil, there are plenty of alternatives that will give you that “bride” feel, like headpieces and capes. If you’re on the fence at all, remember, your wedding day is the only day you will have an excuse to wear a veil–so we say go for it! Now, let’s talk options!
PHOTOGRAPHY | Jemma Keech
The first decision you’ll need to make is whether or not you want a blusher. A blusher is the layer of the veil that drapes over your face. Traditionally, it is worn over the face for the walk down the aisle and then the Father of the Bride (or whoever is walking with you) lifts the blusher and reveals your face for the first time during the ceremony. This look is perfect for formal weddings, especially if your ceremony is being held at a religious venue. If you’re all about the pomp and circumstance, go big–go blusher.
If your ceremony is fairly informal and a blusher seems a little over-the-top for you, there are plenty of veil options that don’t have blushers. You can also wear a veil with the blusher flipped back instead of draped over your face, creating a tiered look.
PHOTOGRAPHY | Mallory Dawn Photography
1. Traditional
Most veils are made from tulle (pronounced tool), a lightweight sheer net, that is gathered and sewn to a comb. Combs can be wide or narrow and the volume of the veil depends on how much tulle has been gathered into the comb. Some veils are simple and drape close to the head while others are full and voluminous. Traditional veils are the most versatile; they pair great with any gown whether it is minimalist or ornate.
PHOTOGRAPHER | Ether & Smith
2. Mantilla-style
Inspired by Spanish Mantillas, these are simple veils that are trimmed in delicate scalloped lace and fastened to a comb. They are traditionally worn over the shoulders as well. Mantilla-style veils add a romantic old-world feel. They pair great with lace gowns and vintage venues.
PHOTOGRAPHY | Mallory Dawn Photography
3. Embellished
Veils can be simple or they can be ornately embellished with lace, embroidery, silk petals, or beading. It just depends on how much of a statement you want to make. We recommend a simple veil if your gown is ornate and vice versa–the simpler the gown the more adventurous you can be with your veil.
PHOTOGRAPHY | Jemma Keech
4. Juliette Cap
A Juliette cap veil covers the crown of the head and is fastened on either side by small combs or pins. It is often decorated with lace or other appliqués on the cap. Juliette cap veils add a boho feel to a look and pair nicely with flowy lace and net gowns.
BRIDE | Kate Moss VEIL | John Galliano
5. Birdcage
When you think birdcage veil, think old-Hollywood. These are the small, sexy veils that are made from a Russian net that is delicate and has larger holes than traditional tulle veils. They can be worn on top of the head or across the eyes for a dramatic touch.
RETAILER | JCrew VEIL | Twigs and Honey
Like gowns, veils come in a variety of lengths. Currently, most veils range from elbow-length to cathedral.
Train Length- When choosing a veil length, consider the length of the train on your gown. If you have a long train, we recommend choosing a veil that is slightly longer–this adds dramatic effect as you walk down the aisle. If you have a train with ornate detail, consider a shorter veil so it doesn’t get covered up. The ideal veil compliments your gown, so choose the features that you want to highlight and make sure that your veil doesn’t hide them.
Size of Venue- Another thing to consider when choosing a length for your veil is your venue. If you’re getting married in a chapel, it’s easy–go with a Chapel-length veil. But not all venues make it that simple. In general, your veil should reflect the size of your venue. If you’re getting married in an intimate setting, your veil should be shorter than if you were getting married in a grand cathedral.
1. Elbow- Approximately 30” in length and hangs just around the elbow. This length is flirty making it perfect for a more casual ceremony and venue.
PHOTOGRAPHY | Sposto Photography
2. Fingertip- Approximately 40” in length and hangs near the fingertips. This is a subtle veil length that pairs well with a gown that has an ornately embellished train.
PHOTOGRAPHY | Alyssa Nikole Photography
3. Waltz- Approximately 54” in length and falls just above the floor (depending on your height). This veil length pairs well with a gown that has a modest train.
PHOTOGRAPHY | Feather & Twine
4. Chapel- Approximately 90” in length, this veil should be paired with a gown with a slightly shorter train. This length is perfect for formal yet intimate venues.
PHOTOGRAPHY | Julie Cate Photography
5. Cathedral- At approximately 120” in length, this veil is by far the most dramatic. It should be longer than the train on your gown and is perfect for grand, over-the-top, venues.
PHOTOGRAPHER | Ledia Tashi Photography