Adjusting Your Wedding Veil: Cutting It To Perfection

Wedding veils come in a variety of lengths, from a short birdcage veil that covers the eyes, nose, or jawline, to a dramatic cathedral-length veil that extends beyond the train of the gown.

If a veil is too long, it can be shortened by removing material from the top portion, near the comb. Tulle is usually cut rather than hemmed, so if you want to take it in from the ends, you would have to separate the lace from the tulle, cut the tulle to the desired length, and then reattach the lace.

How to cut a wedding veil

Wedding veils come in a variety of lengths, from a short and flirty 4-9" bird cage veil to a dramatic 108-120" cathedral-length veil. While it's important to choose the right veil length and style to complement your dress and hairstyle, you can always adjust the veil by cutting it to the desired length. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cut a wedding veil:

Choose the Right Veil:

Before cutting your veil, it's essential to select a veil that complements your wedding dress and hairstyle. Consider the length, style, and fabric of the veil. The veil should accentuate your dress without taking away from its details. If you have a simple dress, you might want to add drama with a longer veil or choose a shorter veil to showcase a statement back.

Plan the Length:

Decide on the desired length of your veil. Common veil lengths include shoulder-length (20-22"), elbow-length (32"), fingertip-length (38-40"), knee-length (48"), waltz-length (60"), and floor-length (72"). You can also opt for a chapel-length (90") or cathedral-length (108-120") veil for a more dramatic effect.

Prepare the Veil:

Lay the veil on a flat, clean surface. Use tacks, tape, or push pins to keep it in place. If you plan to remove fabric from the bottom, measure and mark the desired length. If you want to detach the veil from the comb and cut from the top, consider the desired "pouf" or gathering of the fabric when deciding on the cut length.

Cut the Veil:

Using sharp scissors or a rotary cutter, carefully cut the veil along the marked line. If you're creating a soft edge, fold the fabric, draw a curved line, and cut along it. If you prefer defined corners, skip this step. Remember that you can always shorten the veil further, but it's best to start by cutting a little longer than you think you need.

Finish the Edges:

Fold the edges of the veil by about one-eighth of an inch, and then iron the folds. Sew a zigzag stitch along the folds to secure them. Repeat this process by folding the edges a second time and sewing again. This will create a neat and durable finish.

Attach the Comb:

Use a sewing machine or needle and thread to attach the veil to a hair comb, clip, or crown. Set your sewing machine to a wide running stitch and sew along the top of the veil. Gather the veil fabric at the top and secure it to the hair accessory by sewing or using fabric glue.

Embellish (Optional):

You can add embellishments such as pearls, beads, mirrored crystals, or flower petals to your veil. Keep these details delicate and proportional to the veil. You can also add a trim, such as lace, beads, or flowers, along the bottom edge or around the entire veil.

Finalize and Adjust:

Insert the comb into the veil, angling the teeth towards your forehead. Place the comb in your hair and secure it with bobby pins. Walk around and view the veil from different angles to ensure it looks and feels right. You can always make further adjustments or consult a tailor for a perfect fit.

Remember to give yourself enough time to plan, cut, and adjust your veil. With these steps, you can create a personalized and elegant wedding veil that complements your overall bridal look.

How to attach a veil to a comb

There are several ways to attach a veil to a comb, and the best method for you will depend on the type and weight of the veil, as well as your hair type and hairstyle. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to attach a veil to a comb:

Step 1: Prepare the veil and comb

Before you begin, decide on the length of your veil and cut the fabric accordingly. You can always shorten it later if needed, but it's easier to work with a longer veil than to add fabric later. Prepare the comb by wrapping it in tulle or ribbon if desired. This can help to disguise the comb in your hair and add volume to the veil.

Step 2: Choose your attachment method

There are several options for attaching your veil to the comb, including sewing, super glue, or velcro. If you are using a detachable blusher or pairing your veil with a headpiece, velcro may be a good option. You can also sew the veil directly to the comb or use super glue, ensuring it is dry before placing it in your hair.

Step 3: Attach the veil to the comb

If you are sewing the veil to the comb, use strong, thin thread such as Gutermann Tera 30 or 35, or regular white thread. Whipstitch the tulle to the comb with diagonal stitches between each tooth, then go back and stitch in the other direction to create an "xxxxxx" pattern. Sew the veil to the wrong side of the comb (the part that curves inward) so that the stitching is hidden when you flip the veil over the comb.

Step 4: Secure the veil in your hair

Place the comb in your hair, angling the teeth towards your forehead and ensuring the layers of the veil fall down your back. If you have a blusher, put it on top. You can use bobby pins to secure the comb in place and ensure the veil is anchored securely to your head.

Step 5: Style and adjust as needed

Walk around with your veil in place and look at it from different angles to ensure it is secure and styled to your liking. You may need to adjust the placement of the comb or the veil itself to achieve the desired look. If you are unsure about the placement or styling, consult a hairstylist for advice.

How to choose the right length for a wedding veil

Choosing the right length for your wedding veil can be tricky, but it's an important part of your bridal look. Here's a guide to help you select the perfect veil length:

Consider Your Dress

The first step is to think about the style and length of your wedding dress. If your dress has a statement back or a long train, you might want to opt for a shorter veil that won't cover up these details. On the other hand, if your dress is simple, you may want to choose a longer or more embellished veil to add some drama and elegance. As a general rule, the shorter the dress, the shorter the veil.

Decide on the Level of Formality

The length of your veil can also help set the tone for your wedding. For a more casual or laid-back ceremony, consider a shorter veil such as a birdcage, shoulder-length, or elbow-length style. These veils are less formal and won't weigh you down, allowing you to move around and dance freely during the reception. For a more traditional or formal wedding, go for a longer veil like a fingertip, waltz, floor-length, or chapel-length veil.

Think About Your Hairstyle

Your hairstyle will also play a crucial role in determining the right veil length. If you're planning an updo or a chignon, a shorter veil may be more flattering, as it won't compete with your hairstyle. Longer veils, such as those that fall to the floor or beyond, pair well with long, flowing curls or a low bun. Consider how you want to position the veil—will it be secured at the crown of your head, below an updo, or somewhere in between?

Choose a Veil that Flatters Your Height

Veil lengths can always be adjusted slightly to suit your height, but as a general guide:

• Shorter veils (birdcage, shoulder-length, elbow-length) are versatile and suit all heights.
• Fingertip veils are a popular choice and tend to suit most heights.
• Waltz and knee-length veils can add drama without weighing you down and are a good option if you're on the taller side.
• Floor-length and chapel veils are ideal if you want a veil that matches the length of your gown, but be mindful of your height to avoid tripping.
• Cathedral veils are the longest and most dramatic option, best suited for taller brides.

Don't Be Afraid to Experiment

Finally, don't be afraid to try on different veil lengths and styles. You might be surprised by what looks good! A veil that's a few inches longer or shorter than you initially envisioned can completely transform your wedding day look. Trust the expertise of bridal stylists, and don't be afraid to mix and match textures and styles to create a unique and personalised bridal look.

Remember, your veil is an accessory that should enhance your overall bridal style, not overwhelm it. By considering these factors, you'll be able to choose the right veil length that complements your wedding dress, hairstyle, and personal taste.

How to decide whether to cut a veil or not

Wedding veils come in a variety of lengths, styles, and materials, so it's no surprise that choosing the right one can be a difficult task. Here are some tips to help you decide whether to cut your veil or not:

• Consider the length of your veil: If your veil is too long, you may want to cut it to a more suitable length. Common veil lengths include fingertip, elbow, waist, knee, waltz, floor, chapel, and cathedral. If your veil is significantly longer than these standard lengths, you may want to consider cutting it.
• Think about the style of your veil: Veils come in various styles, including single-layer, two-layer, drop, mantilla, drape, Juliet cap, and waterfall. If you have a two-layer veil, you may want to cut the top layer to create a blusher veil, which can be worn over the face during the ceremony.
• Take into account the material of your veil: Veils are typically made from tulle, but can also be made from other materials such as organza, lace, or Russian net. If your veil is made from a delicate material like tulle, be careful when cutting to avoid any snags or tears.
• Consider the overall look you want to achieve: The veil you choose should complement your wedding dress and overall style. If you want a simple and elegant look, a plain veil with a cut edge may be best. If you want to add a touch of sparkle, consider a veil with beading, sequins, or crystals. For a more romantic and ethereal look, consider a veil with lace or scalloped edges.
• Get a second opinion: If you're unsure about whether to cut your veil, consider getting a second opinion from a trusted friend or family member. They may be able to offer a fresh perspective and help you make a decision.
• Practice on a similar piece of fabric: If you're nervous about cutting your veil, practice on a similar piece of fabric first. This will help you get a feel for the process and ensure that you're comfortable with the cutting technique.

How to decide whether to add a blusher or not

Wedding veils are an enduring accessory, symbolising modesty and chastity. The blusher veil is a shorter front layer of the veil that covers the bride's face until she is unveiled by her father or partner. This is a very emotional moment and makes for gorgeous photographs.

Blushers can be modern or traditional, and can be customised to any length. They can be fully attached to the veil (known as a butterfly cut) or cut as a separate layer. They can be worn over the face, or trailing behind the bride, and can be removed after the ceremony.

If you are considering adding a blusher, there are a few factors to keep in mind:

• The style of your dress: If your dress has intricate details, a blusher might be the perfect addition, allowing those details to shine through. If your dress is more modern or minimalist, you may prefer to go without a blusher to maintain a sleek look.
• Your comfort: Some brides find a blusher restrictive, especially outdoors. Some fabrics are more breathable than others, so opt for a lightweight, high-quality tulle.
• Your hairstyle: The blusher should complement your hairstyle, not compete with it.
• Your budget: Veils can be as expensive as a dress, so set a budget and stick to it.

Ultimately, the decision to include a blusher on your veil is a personal choice. If you love it, wear it!

Frequently asked questions