Rhiannon Hendricks
Wedding veils are an accessory almost exclusively reserved for brides. They can add drama and elegance to a bridal ensemble, but choosing the right one can be a challenge. There are many factors to consider, such as the silhouette and length of the wedding dress, the bride's hairstyle, and the overall aesthetic of the wedding. The veil's length, fabric, and embellishments are also important considerations. Some brides may prefer a traditional blusher veil that covers the face, while others may opt for a more modern or unconventional style. Ultimately, the choice of veil depends on the bride's personal preference and style.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Veil type | Blusher, elbow-length, fingertip, knee-length, chapel, cathedral, waltz, flyaway, angel-cut, cape, birdcage, retro, two-tier, wedge |
| Veil fabric | Tulle, lace, Italian tulle, satin, horsehair, organza, net, sheer |
| Veil details | Embellishments, embroidery, appliqués, veil weights, glitter, beading, pearls, diamante, cape-like sides, hood |
| Veil cost | $250 to $3,000+ |
| Hair type | Updo, long flowing curls, loose waves |
| Dress type | Simple, fitted silhouette, A-line, mermaid, fit-and-flare, mini dress, suit |
| Other accessories | Tiara, headband, hair accessories, dry flower comb |
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What You'll Learn
Veil length: from elbow-length to cathedral-length
The length of your veil depends on the length and shape of your wedding dress. If you're wearing a fitted silhouette like a mermaid or fit-and-flare, a longer veil like a chapel- or cathedral-length veil will probably look more balanced. Chapel-length veils typically measure 90", while cathedral-length veils measure 108-120" or even 100-197" according to another source. These veils extend beyond the train of the bride's gown and are the most dramatic option for walking down the aisle. If you're wearing a long veil like this, it should be longer than your dress's train to allow for seamless portraits.
However, if you're wearing a short dress, you should opt for a shorter veil. A birdcage veil or a whimsical multiple-layer veil in a shorter length can be a great choice for a cocktail-length gown. A chapel veil is also a good option for a beach wedding when you want the veil to flow in the wind without being too cumbersome.
An elbow-length veil is a good choice if you want a more conservative look for your ceremony. It covers your shoulders elegantly without the bulk of a bolero or shrug. This length is also a good option for brides who don't want the fuss of a long veil but still want to feel like a traditional bride. Elbow-length veils can feature adornments such as luxury laces, intricate beading, scalloped edges, and simple stitched edges.
A fingertip veil is another popular choice, as it falls beyond the bride's hips and allows any design on the back of the gown to be seen through the sheer fabric.
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Veil fabric: tulle, lace, net, organza, or satin
The type of fabric you choose for your wedding veil can depend on several factors, such as the style and length of your wedding dress, your bridal aesthetic, and your budget. Here are some popular fabric options for wedding veils:
Tulle
Tulle is a common fabric choice for wedding veils, known for its soft and delicate appearance. It is often used to create a traditional, contemporary, or understated look. Tulle veils are usually very lightweight and see-through, making them ideal for brides who want to wear the veil over their face. They can also be gathered at the top to create a puffy layering that frames the face. Tulle is available in a wide variety of colours and is generally more affordable than other fabrics like silk.
Lace
Lace is another popular choice for wedding veils, especially for brides who want to match the fabric of their veil with their dress. Lace veils can be elegant and understated, and they often feature intricate patterns and details. A lace veil with a light touch of lace can be very elegant when styled with a simple dress.
Net
Net veils, such as English Net, are made from polyester nylon and have a soft, draping texture similar to chiffon. They are transparent and weightier than some other fabrics, making them ideal for single-tier veils. English Net has a slightly more vintage feel and is a good option for brides seeking a non-tulle-based veil.
Organza
Organza is a semi-translucent, stiff fabric made from synthetic polyester, nylon, or silk. It has a slight sheen and a more structured design that can add a unique touch to your bridal look. Organza veils are often trimmed with satin or sheer organza ribbon, adding elegance and sophistication to the overall ensemble.
Satin
Satin is a smooth and shiny fabric that can be used to trim the edges of veils, especially those with a plain cut. It adds a touch of elegance and can be paired with organza fabric for a more detailed look. Satin-trimmed veils are often chosen to complement wedding dresses with satin or organza details.
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Veil shape: blusher, two-tier, angel-cut, or cape
When choosing a veil to pair with your wedding dress, there are several styles to choose from, each offering a unique look and feel. Here is a guide to four popular veil shapes: blusher, two-tier, angel-cut, and cape.
Blusher Veil
A blusher veil is a popular choice for brides, known for its romantic and iconic appeal. This short veil falls over the face and ends near the top of the dress. During the wedding ceremony, it is pulled back to reveal the bride's face, creating a memorable and moving moment. Blusher veils are often chosen for their quintessentially bridal finish to the wedding ensemble.
Two-Tier Veil
The two-tier veil is another style that exudes romance. This veil features two layers, adding depth and a dreamy quality to the bridal look. While the specific details of this style are scarce, it is likely that the two tiers refer to two layers of varying lengths, creating a dynamic and elegant silhouette.
Angel-Cut Veil
The angel-cut veil is a dramatic choice, perfect for brides seeking to make a statement. This style features side folds, with the length of the fabric tapering softly in the back, creating a cascading effect. The angel-cut veil beautifully frames the bride's face, and the spiral of fabric that forms as it cascades down adds to the overall dramatic look and feel. This veil is often trimmed with satin, horsehair, or organza, enhancing its elegant appearance.
Cape Veil
Although not mentioned in the search results, a cape veil is another option that can add a unique and modern touch to your wedding ensemble. Cape veils can vary in length and often feature a more structured silhouette, resembling a cape or capelet. They can be made of various fabrics, including tulle or lace, and can be paired with a variety of wedding dress styles. Cape veils offer a contemporary alternative to traditional veil shapes, providing both warmth and elegance.
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Veil cost: from $250 to $3000+
The cost of a wedding veil can vary significantly, ranging from $250 to $3000 or more. The price is usually dependent on the detailing and fabric quality. Simple veils made from tulle or lace tend to be more affordable, with prices starting at around $250 to $300. Custom veils, veils with intricate details, or those made from high-quality fabrics can cost upwards of $3000.
When choosing a veil, it's important to consider the style and length that will complement your wedding dress. The veil's fabric can also enhance the overall look and feel of the ensemble. For example, a bride with a lace dress might prefer a veil with matching lace accents. Additionally, the silhouette of the dress should be taken into account when selecting the length of the veil. A longer veil, such as a chapel or cathedral-length veil, pairs well with a fitted silhouette like a mermaid or fit-and-flare dress. On the other hand, an A-line gown is better suited for a fingertip-length veil that ends around the widest part of the dress.
It's worth noting that the cost of a veil can be influenced by various factors, including your budget, bridal aesthetic, and where you shop. Some brides may opt to purchase their veil from resale sites or online retailers, which can offer more affordable options. Creating a custom veil or seeking out high-end brands will likely result in a higher price tag. Ultimately, the choice of veil should align with your unique style and vision for your wedding day.
While veils can be a beautiful addition to your wedding ensemble, they are not a mandatory accessory. If you feel that a veil doesn't suit your style or budget, there are alternative options to consider, such as tiaras, headbands, or other hair accessories.
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Veil with accessories: hair combs, headbands, or hairpins
Wedding veils are usually attached to the hair using a comb or clip, but more and more brides are opting for hairpins for a sleeker look. When choosing your bridal comb, consider its size relative to your veil comb. If your veil comb is 3 inches long, your headpiece should be at least 4–5 inches long.
If you're wearing your hair loose, your hairdresser will likely do a tiny French plait where the veil will sit and slot the veil comb into the braid. If you're wearing your hair in a low updo or chignon, you can position the headpiece and veil at the nape of your neck.
Hair vines can be placed above the veil comb, and tiaras and headbands are also options as they sit across your head and won't interfere with your veil.
If you prefer a sheer wedding veil, a drop veil will sit flat against the head, ensuring your bridal comb sits flush against it.
Ultimately, choosing a separate veil and headpiece offers more flexibility, styling options, and practicality. You can adapt your look throughout the day, for example, by removing the veil after the ceremony while keeping the headpiece on for the reception.
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Frequently asked questions
Brides who want to add drama to their wedding look can opt for a cathedral veil, which has about two feet of fabric extending along the floor behind you. Another option is an angel-cut veil trimmed in satin, horsehair, or organza, which cascades down in a spiral of fabric for a dramatic look and feel.
Brides who want to showcase the details on the back of their wedding dress can opt for a sheer veil without any accents or layers of fabric that might obscure the dress. A blusher veil is also an option, as it covers the bride's face as she walks down the aisle and is lifted to reveal the bride's face and the back of the dress during the ceremony.
Brides who want to cover their arms can consider a two-layered full-width tulle veil, which will have cascading sides that float around the arms and shoulders. A drop veil is also an option that can provide some coverage for the arms.
When choosing a veil length, it's important to consider the length and shape of your wedding dress. For example, a longer veil like a chapel or cathedral-length veil pairs well with a fitted silhouette like a mermaid or fit-and-flare dress. On the other hand, an A-line gown suits a fingertip-length veil that ends around the widest part of the dress, drawing attention to the skirt. It's also important to consider the height of the bride and the length of the dress train when selecting a veil length.
