The allure of wedding veils has evolved significantly over time, yet their rich history remains an integral part of a bride’s overall aesthetic. The tradition of donning a veil dates back to ancient Rome, where it was believed that covering one’s face would ward off malevolent spirits seeking to disrupt the union. This notion may have originated from a desire to shield the couple from evil omens or simply to signify the bride’s surrender to her partner.
Despite its spiritual and religious undertones, the veil has evolved into a stylish accessory, with many modern brides still choosing to don one as they exchange vows. Others appreciate it solely for its ornamental value, allowing the veil to serve as a beautiful finishing touch to their wedding attire.
In an era where options seem endless, navigating the world of bridal veils can be overwhelming.
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive roadmap for selecting the perfect veil, complete with expert advice and insider tips to streamline your search.
Wedding Veil Styles & Lengths
Here, we’ll take a closer look at the top veil styles, along with their typical lengths and suggested dress pairings to create a cohesive overall aesthetic.
Birdcage Wedding Veil
A bandeau veil, also known as a birdcage veil, is a delicate piece that typically measures between 4 to 9 inches in length. Its primary function is to cover the bride’s eyes and nose with a layer of fishnet or lace, offering a touch of romance and whimsy to her overall look. Some brides opt for a more dramatic effect by wearing their birdcage veil to conceal their faces, while others prefer to sweep it to the side for a modern, effortless vibe.
This versatile piece can complement traditional, floor-length gowns as well as shorter, non-traditional dresses. However, when paired with a short dress, the birdcage veil’s impact should be carefully considered to avoid making the overall look feel ‘top-heavy.’ Ultimately, the right choice depends on the bride’s individual style and preferences.
Shoulder Length Veil
A versatile option for brides seeking to strike the perfect balance between elegance and understatement, a standard 20-22 inch shoulder-length wedding veil extends just above the shoulders. This style allows the bride’s dress – often adorned with intricate details such as beading or embellishments – to remain the focal point of the overall look, while still adding a touch of classic sophistication.
Blusher Wedding Veil
The blusher wedding veil has a rich history, dating back much further than other styles of veils. This traditional accessory carries symbolic meaning, representing modesty and purity by covering the bride’s face until it’s lifted at the altar. The moment is often marked by the groom, though some brides prefer to have their father or giving-away family member lift the veil. This intimate gesture adds a touch of emotional significance to the proceedings.
Blusher wedding veils typically measure around 30 inches in length, falling just above the mid-back. They pair particularly well with modest, floor-length gowns, where the delicate fabric and intricate details can be showcased without distraction. Perhaps the most iconic blusher veil is that worn by Kate Middleton on her wedding day to Prince William, an enduring symbol of romance and elegance.
Flyaway Veil
A statement piece in its own right, the flyaway wedding veil boasts a multi-layered, tiered design that elevates the overall aesthetic without overpowering the gown. Measuring approximately 24 inches long, this style of veil tends to fall around the mid-back, although it can be trimmed to suit individual preferences. The true hallmark of a flyaway veil lies in its layered construction, which adds depth and visual interest to the look.
When paired with heavily embellished or decorated gowns, these veils truly shine, allowing the bride’s attire to take center stage.
Elbow Wedding Veil
An elbow-length wedding veil is characterized by its distinctive length, reaching from the bride’s crown to her elbows. Measuring approximately 32 inches, this style provides a unique aesthetic that complements various dress designs, particularly ball gowns where it seamlessly integrates with the voluminous skirt.
While traditionally suited for non-traditional settings, elbow veils also pair well with a range of dress styles and offer a versatile option for brides seeking to make a statement on their special day.
Fingertip Wedding Veil
The fingertip veil, extending from hip to hip, typically measures between 38 and 40 inches in length. Its understated design makes it an attractive option for brides seeking a versatile veil that won’t upstage their wedding gown. The veil’s modest width allows it to harmonize with a range of styles, effortlessly complementing the bride’s overall look without dominating the visual landscape.
Knee Length Veil
When it comes to knee-length veils, one key aspect is their length – typically around 48 inches. However, this measurement isn’t set in stone; many veils can be adjusted to better fit the bride’s height. This versatility makes them a great match for fitted gowns that don’t feature a train.
Waltz/Ballet Wedding Veil
A waltz-length or ballet wedding veil is a stunning option that falls just below the bride’s mid-calf, typically reaching around 60 inches in length. This style of veil offers an elegant touch while still allowing the bride to move freely throughout the reception, perhaps even dancing the night away with her loved ones.
Notably, this style shares similarities with knee-length veils and pairs beautifully with fitted gowns, making it a popular choice for brides seeking a classic yet versatile look.
Floor Length Veil
While the length of a floor-length veil ultimately depends on the bride’s height, it typically measures around 72 inches, mirroring the length of her wedding dress. This style is particularly well-suited for gowns that hit the floor without a train, sheath silhouette, or ball gown design, as it creates a sense of continuity and harmony with the overall aesthetic.
Chapel Wedding Veil
A classic wedding veil option, chapel length veils are characterized by their subtle yet elegant appearance. Measuring approximately 90 inches in length, they extend just beyond the hem of the bride’s gown, creating a sleek and sophisticated look. While they pair particularly well with modest, formal gowns, their popularity is often driven more by the wedding location than the dress itself, making them a popular choice for chapel weddings where tradition and simplicity are key.
Cathedral Wedding Veil
When it comes to making a statement, few accessories can rival the drama and flair of a cathedral veil. Measuring between 108 and 120 inches in length, this show-stopping piece is designed to be paired with semi-cathedral or cathedral gowns that make a bold fashion statement. Its impressive scale demands attention, and when worn correctly, it can elevate even the most understated ensemble into something truly unforgettable.
Royal Veil
The grandeur of a royal veil knows no bounds, stretching up to 144 inches in length. This majestic adornment is often adorned with intricate jewels, lustrous pearls, and other exquisite lace embellishments. When paired with a gown, the choice of which style to opt for is akin to that of a cathedral wedding veil – it pairs beautifully with flowing ball gowns.
Juliet Cap
Inspired by Shakespeare’s 16th-century portrayal of Juliet, the Juliet cap veil takes its name from this iconic character. This elegant veil combines a thin cloche-style cap at the top with a flowing tulle train that can be customized to any length desired by the bride. While the traditional length reaches down to the fingertips and beyond, often measuring at least 38 inches, it’s particularly well-suited for pairing with fitted gowns that accentuate its delicate charm.
Mantilla Veil
Mantilla veils are characterized by their circular shape and intricately laced borders, typically crafted from materials such as lace or tulle. Unlike traditional veils that adhere to specific lengths, mantilla styles can vary significantly, ranging from shoulder-grazing pieces to majestic cathedral-length designs. When paired with sleek, floor-sweeping dresses, these veils add a touch of understated elegance and sophistication.
Drop Veil
In contrast to traditional blusher wedding veils, a drop veil attaches its front piece to the back of the veil, securing it with a discreet comb usually placed on the crown of the head. The length of a drop veil is influenced by the overall veil’s length, typically starting at around 30 inches and extending further from there.
Tips for Picking the Right Wedding Veil
When searching for the perfect wedding veil, it’s essential to consider a multitude of factors that will ultimately influence your decision. From personal style and preferences to practical considerations and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve, each element plays a crucial role in finding the ideal piece that complements your wedding look.
Try Options with Your Gown
Before embarking on the quest to find the perfect wedding dress, consider exploring veil options that complement your chosen style. In most cases, brides tend to select their dress first and then look for veils that harmonize with it. If you’re fortunate enough to have a stylist or assistant guiding you through the process, they’ll likely provide a curated list of veil recommendations tailored to your dress’s unique characteristics.
Consider Your Venue
When selecting a wedding veil, the venue plays a significant role in your decision-making process. While some veils, such as chapel and cathedral veils, are chosen based on their compatibility with the dress, others are influenced by the location of the ceremony. For instance, if you’re hosting a beach wedding, you wouldn’t want to opt for a long, floor-length veil that might become sand-caked or snagged on shells or rocks by the end of the ceremony.
Instead, consider shorter veils like knee-length or waltz styles, or even a birdcage veil to complement your shorter dress.
Compliment Your Hairstyle
When it comes to choosing the perfect veil, it’s essential to consider not only the type of veil but also the hairstyle and overall aesthetic you’re going for. Certain veils tend to complement specific hairstyles and dress styles, with birdcage veils often pairing well with shorter hairstyles and vintage-inspired updos. On the other hand, longer veils typically look their best when paired with elegant long hairstyles.
In addition to choosing a veil that complements your hairstyle, it’s also crucial to consider how you’ll attach the veil. Many brides opt for a half-up half-down style, which provides a secure and comfortable way to wear the veil. Ultimately, finding the right balance between these factors will help you find a veil that makes you feel like the best version of yourself on your special day.
Consider Your Budget
When it comes to selecting a wedding veil, budget is a crucial factor to consider. According to the Bridal Association of America, the average cost of a veil is $274, which may be out of reach for some couples. To stay within your means, take the time to shop around and compare prices from different retailers. You can also try on various styles at a store to get a sense of what works best with your dress, and then look for deals online or in local boutiques.
Ultimately, finding the perfect veil that complements your wedding gown is crucial, and there are several factors to keep in mind when making your selection, including the length and style of the veil itself. With some planning and research, you can find a veil that fits both your budget and your personal taste. And for those looking to save even more, making your own wedding veil can be a fun and creative way to go.
