A wedding veil is the classic statement piece to complement your dress. It’s often the image we have in our heads when thinking about the ‘finished bridal look’. Of course, as with all accessories, it’s totally okay to go sans veil, but if you are thinking it’s on your list to buy, here’s our guide to help you understand the choices out there.
The Main Shapes
Classic Straight Veil: This one does what it says on the tin, really. A classic veil with an elegant sweep of fabric that sits over the back of your dress.
Waterfall Veil: A waterfall veil cascades over the arms with a wave-shaped cut. It’s an incredibly popular way to add texture to strapless gowns, and often adds a layer of ‘safety’ for brides wanting more coverage on their arms or for modesty during the ceremony.
Blusher Veil / 2 Tier: The blusher veil is a timeless two-layer piece, with one layer traditionally being worn draped over the face as a sign of modesty.
Birdcage Veil: This vintage veil covers the top of your face, typically made from stiffer tulle to hold its shape. The veil goes well with more retro-style looks.
Juliet Veil: The Juliet veil is less common but just as glamorous. The fabric drapes over the back of the head like a cap (giving it its additional name ‘cap veil’) and its single layer falls down the back. It is often paired with hair accessories such as pins.
Veil Lengths
Most veils come in a range of different sizes, giving brides the option to mix-and-match styles with lengths. Typically, the most popular veil lengths you will come across are:
Elbow: Traditionally a two-piece veil that can be worn with or without the blusher. This length is roughly 32 inches and comes in around the elbow.
Fingertip: Similar to the previous option but coming in at around 40 inches. Most brides opt for a single layer for fingertip lengths or longer.
Chapel: Probably the most popular length currently, chapel length is around 90 inches and falls elegantly over the dress and the majority of most trains.
Cathedral: A very popular choice for brides wanting a little more drama. Cathedral length is typically around 110 inches but can be longer depending on the designer.
Veil Accessories and Finishes
Traditionally, veils are made from sheer, plain tulle. Nowadays, veils can come with the option to add a subtle sparkle or pearl detailing, or to use an all over glitter tulle to add some serious sparkle to your look! You can opt for detailing all over or just cascading towards the bottom of the veil. You can also have plain-edged veils, stitched piping edges, or lace edges with additional appliqués. Sometimes dresses even have matching veil options (or if not, this is often something we can help you to create!)
You can even get personalised embroidered veils, with significant dates, initials or song lyrics stitched into the fabric – a beautiful way to mark the day.
How Do I Choose?
We always advise our brides to focus on the dress first, and then have a good think about the veil after. We find it can be too overwhelming to make the dress and veil decision on the same day – though it’s not impossible. If there’s a stand-out you’ve fallen for, go for it!
Factors to consider when selecting the veil that will be right for you can include:
Hairstyle: Veils can have different ways of attaching to your hair, and your chosen hairstyle for the day may impact your options. Make sure you know how you are having your hair before committing to a veil that will depend on this.
Logistics: Love a cathedral length but having an all-outdoor wedding on a windy cliff
top? Maybe not the perfect choice! There can be logistical elements you’ll need to factor into your decision. Whether you’re planning on wearing it all day or not, you need to be sure the length and style work for the day you have carefully planned.
Dress Details: Have a good think about how the different options would work with your dress. A thick tulle, heavily beaded veil can stand out against a simpler gown, but it might cover up all the fabulous detail on a lace dress. Could you match the sparkle in the dress with some glitz in the veil? Or how about a lace hem to complement the train?
Comfort: We are big fans of promoting comfort on your wedding day. Some veils can be very heavy and require clipping into your hair for security. For some brides, this isn’t an issue, but for others it can be. Make sure you consider your personal comfort and tolerance.
Budget: It goes without saying that the more intricate the details, typically the higher the price point. Before you go trying on pearl-encrusted blusher veils, make sure you have a clear budget in mind so you can make an informed decision.
With all this in mind, remember that there is no wrong choice! The absolute priority is that as the bride, you are completely happy and in love with your overall look. As your stylists here at Champagne and Charlotte Bridal, we can advise and show you different styles, talk you through the options and our recommendations, but it’s always your choice.
We offer accessory appointments once you’ve found ‘the dress’ and can go through our selection of veils, as well as additional pieces such as shoes and jewellery or we can wait to do all this when you come in for your First Try appointment, once your dress arrives in the boutique, head over to our booking page to book your appointment today. If you ever have any questions, pop us a message where we are more than happy to help.