Crafting A Vintage Veil: 1920S Style Guide

The 1920s saw the rise of the Flapper Veil, a glamorous style inspired by the bold and rebellious spirit of the Roaring Twenties. This veil features delicate draped lace or tulle cascading over the shoulders, with a fastening across the forehead or at the hairline. To create this look, materials such as tulle, lace, and various embellishments are required. The process involves edging the veil with lace or satin trim, measuring and marking the centre for placement, adding decorations like lace trims and flowers, and finally, pinning and stitching the veil in place. The result is a dramatic and elegant accessory that complements the iconic fashion trends of the era.

Choosing the right fabric for your veil

The 1920s wedding veil, also known as the "Flapper" veil, is a delicate and elegant accessory that perfectly complements the bold and rebellious spirit of the era. When choosing the right fabric for your 1920s-inspired veil, there are a few key factors to consider:

Fabric Type

The most common fabric for wedding veils is tulle, known for its lightweight and soft qualities. Tulle fabric is often used to create a draped and flowing effect, complementing the bridal ensemble. It is available in a wide range of colours and widths, allowing you to find the perfect match for your gown.

Another popular fabric option is English net or Spanish tulle, which offers exquisite softness at a more affordable price compared to silk. English net is ideal for creating soft capes or veils, as it is pliable and more translucent than chiffon. It gives a slight vintage feel to the veil, making it a popular choice for modern brides.

For a true vintage vibe, you may consider Russian net, also known as "Merry Widow" fabric, which has a retro vibe with large holes. This fabric is commonly used for the birdcage or bandeau style veil, adding a touch of glamour to your bridal look.

Width

The width of the fabric will depend on the style and length of your veil. Most tulle fabrics come in standard widths of 54'' or 108'. If you're opting for a longer veil, such as a cathedral veil, choosing a wider fabric like the 108'' option will ensure a more proportionate look. Using a narrower fabric for a long veil will result in a more minimalist and sleek appearance.

Colour

When selecting the colour of your veil fabric, consider whether you want to match your gown exactly or create a slight contrast. Traditionally, veils were white, symbolising purity and virginity. Today, ivory is the most common colour, offering a softer, off-white hue. You can also choose colours like light ivory, blush, nude, or glimmer, which is a neutral cream with a subtle sparkle.

Embellishments

To enhance the look of your 1920s veil, consider adding embellishments such as beading, embroidery, or intricate lace details. Beaded edging or glitter tulle can add a touch of sparkle, while lace appliques or embroidered designs can create a romantic and elegant effect.

In conclusion, when choosing the right fabric for your 1920s wedding veil, consider the style, length, colour, and any desired embellishments. Tulle and English net are popular choices, offering softness and drape, while Russian net provides a unique retro vibe. Select a fabric width that suits your veil design, and don't be afraid to play with colours and embellishments to create a veil that perfectly complements your bridal ensemble.

Selecting a veil length that suits your style

The 1920s was an era of glamour, boldness, and rebellion, and these elements were reflected in the fashion choices of the time, including wedding attire. When selecting a veil length for a 1920s-style wedding, there are several options to consider, each offering a unique look and feel.

One popular choice is the cathedral-length veil, which was the most common veil length in the 1920s. This veil is designed to drag long behind the bride as she walks down the aisle, creating a dramatic and elegant effect. After the ceremony, the veil can be wrapped around the arms, resembling a shawl. This style complements the flapper-style dresses of the 1920s, adding a touch of elegance and mystery.

Another option is the chapel-length veil, which gently brushes the floor without a trailing train. This style provides a more subtle and understated look while still maintaining the elegance of a longer veil.

For a modern twist on the 1920s theme, a ballet-length veil can be a charming choice. This veil length falls in line with the hem of a knee-length dress, reflecting the fashion-forward style of the modern woman of the 1920s.

The bandeau, or headband, was also a popular choice in the 1920s. This style is typically decorated with beading, rhinestones, or wax flowers and is worn low on the forehead or across the hairline. The bandeau can be paired with a veil of various lengths, allowing for customisation to suit the bride's preferences.

Ultimately, the choice of veil length depends on the overall style and theme of the wedding, as well as the bride's personal preferences. Whether you opt for a dramatic cathedral-length veil or a more understated bandeau, a 1920s-style wedding veil is sure to add a touch of vintage glamour to your special day.

Finding the perfect headpiece to complement the veil

The headpiece is an essential component of the bridal ensemble, working in harmony with the veil to create a cohesive and captivating look. When it comes to finding the perfect headpiece to complement your 1920s wedding veil, there are several factors to consider. Here are some tips and ideas to help you make an informed decision:

Understand the 1920s Aesthetic

The 1920s, also known as the Roaring Twenties, was a period of bold and rebellious fashion. The "Flapper" veil, characterized by delicate draped lace or tulle cascading over the shoulders and fastened across the forehead or at the hairline, was all the rage. Intricate beading, embroidery, and intricate embellishments were often featured. Understanding the fashion and style of the era will help guide your headpiece choice.

Consider the Veil Style

The style of your 1920s wedding veil will play a crucial role in determining the perfect headpiece. If you've chosen a "Flapper" veil with beaded or rhinestone embellishments, consider a simpler headpiece that won't overwhelm the intricate details of the veil. On the other hand, if your veil is more understated, you may opt for a headpiece with a touch more glamour or detail.

Explore Headpiece Options

The 1920s offered a variety of headpiece options that you can draw inspiration from:

• Cloche hats: Cloche hats were popular in the 1920s and were designed to fit snugly around the head, complementing the vintage hairstyles of the time. A cloche-style headpiece can be an elegant choice, especially if you're aiming for a true vintage look.
• Bandeaus: The bandeau, a French word for headband, was a favourite among flappers. Often adorned with beading, rhinestones, or wax flowers, the bandeau was worn low on the forehead. This style can add a touch of sparkle and uniqueness to your bridal look.
• Juliet caps: The Juliet cap, similar in shape to the cloche hat, was another popular choice in the 1920s. Usually made of chiffon or lace, the fabric gathers snugly around the ears. This style is perfect for brides who want a soft and ethereal look.
• Headbands: Simple headbands, often adorned with flowers or other embellishments, were also trendy in the 1920s. This option can add a delicate touch to your overall bridal ensemble.

Material and Colour Choices

When selecting a headpiece, consider the materials and colours that will complement your veil and overall wedding aesthetic. If your veil has intricate beading or embroidery, opt for a headpiece with similar embellishments for a cohesive look. Additionally, choose colours that either match or subtly contrast with your veil, creating a stylish and well-put-together appearance.

Personalisation and Sentimentality

Adding a personal touch or a sentimental element to your headpiece can make your wedding day even more special. You may consider repurposing or restyling a headpiece passed down from a family member, infusing your bridal look with a sense of nostalgia and meaning.

In conclusion, finding the perfect headpiece to complement your 1920s wedding veil involves understanding the era's fashion, considering the veil's style and details, exploring various headpiece options, and making thoughtful choices regarding materials, colours, and personalisation. By taking these factors into account, you'll be able to create a stunning bridal ensemble that truly reflects the bold and elegant spirit of the Roaring Twenties.

Adding embellishments and personal touches to your veil

The 1920s "Flapper" veil is known for its intricate beading or embroidery, draped lace, and tulle. If you're looking to add embellishments and personal touches to your veil, here are some ideas to consider:

Embellishments:

• Beading: Add some sparkle and shine to your veil by incorporating intricate beading. This could be in the form of small beads or rhinestones scattered across the veil or arranged in a specific pattern.
• Embroidery: Embroidery can be used to add detail and elegance to your veil. Consider a delicate embroidered pattern or your initials for a personal touch.
• Lace: Drape lace across the veil for a romantic and vintage-inspired look. You can choose from various lace types, such as corded lace, guipure lace, or Chantilly lace, each offering a unique texture and design.

Personal Touches:

• Wax Flowers: In the 1920s, wax flowers were a popular choice for bridal veils. They were affordable, available year-round, and sparkled like pearls in the light. Adding wax flowers to your veil can be a beautiful nod to the era.
• Headpieces: Combine your veil with a headpiece such as a headband, cloche hat, or Juliet cap. You can decorate the headpiece with lace, beads, or rhinestones to make it even more eye-catching.
• Veil Length: Consider the length of your veil to add a unique touch. The most common veil length in the 1920s was the cathedral length, which trailed behind the bride as she walked. However, you could also opt for a shorter veil, such as a chapel-length or ballet-length veil, for a more playful and modern feel.

When adding embellishments and personal touches to your 1920s-inspired wedding veil, feel free to mix and match different elements to create a look that truly represents your style and personality.

Tips for wearing and securing your 1920s-style veil

The 1920s "Flapper" veil is a bold and rebellious accessory that adds elegance and mystery to the bridal look. Here are some tips for wearing and securing your 1920s-style veil:

• Veil Length: The most common veil length in the 1920s was the cathedral length, which trailed behind the bride as she walked down the aisle. Another option is the chapel length veil, which just touches the floor without a train. If you want to recreate the vintage look, consider choosing one of these lengths.
• Hairstyles: 1920s veils often complemented vintage hairstyles shaped close to the head, such as finger waves. When trying on your veil, consider styling your hair in a similar way to get an authentic 1920s look.
• Fastening: The Flapper veil is typically fastened straight across the forehead or at the hairline. You can secure the veil with bobby pins or a headband. If you opt for a headband, look for one with decorative elements such as beading or rhinestones.
• Drape and Fit: The Flapper veil features delicate draped lace or tulle cascading down the shoulders. Ensure that the veil is properly draped and fitted so that it complements your dress and overall bridal ensemble.
• Embellishments: Embroidery, beading, and other intricate details were popular on 1920s veils. Consider adding some embellishments to your veil for an extra touch of glamour. Wax flowers, in particular, were a popular choice as they were affordable, available year-round, and sparkled like pearls.
• Headpieces: If you want to take your 1920s-style veil to the next level, consider incorporating a headpiece into your look. Cloche hats and bandeau headbands were popular in the 1920s and were often decorated with beading or rhinestones. These headpieces can add a unique and authentic touch to your veil.

Frequently asked questions