The decision on the type of veil to wear on your wedding day determines your overall bridal look. It’s an essential element that transforms your wedding ensemble and carries significant weight in completing a wedding outfit. The sheer fabric is often lifted by the groom before nuptials are exchanged.
Though there are many types of veils, each offers a unique way to enhance your bridal look. From the sweeping grandeur of a cathedral veil to the chic simplicity of a birdcage veil or the classic allure of a blusher veil, there’s a style for every bride and theme.
Let’s look at the different veils and find the perfect match to make you feel like a vision on your wedding day.
Types of Veils
With many styles and length options, here’s our simple breakdown of the most common veil types.
The Majestic Cathedral Veil
The cathedral veil, known for its beauty and elegance, is the epitome of bridal splendor. Stretching beyond the gown’s train, often measuring between 108 to 120 inches, it’s a vision of regal beauty and makes quite the entrance.
This veil suits formal, traditional weddings and makes a statement of timeless grace. Its length not only adds a dramatic flair but also symbolizes the solemnity and importance of the occasion.
A Touch of Sparkle with a Beaded Veil
The beaded veil is an exquisite choice for women seeking a hint of glamour. Embellished with crystals, pearls, or glass beads, these veils create a captivating shimmer.
The inclusion of wedding pearls on veils is one way to add jewelry to your bridal look. Beaded veils complement both simple and ornate gowns, adding a luxurious and custom appeal.
Redefined Elegance with Chapel Veil
The chapel veil is usually around 90 inches long and gracefully trails just short of a cathedral veil’s length. This style perfectly matches brides who desire a hint of majesty without the full extent of a cathedral veil.
It’s particularly suited for semi-formal weddings, complementing both elaborate and simpler gown designs.
The Versatile Fingertip Veil
Fingertip veils, typically 36 to 40 inches long, are celebrated for their adaptability. They reach just to the bride’s fingertips, offering elegance and ease. This veil is a favorite for its ability to suit a wider range of bridal gowns and wedding settings, from the intimately casual to the decidedly formal.
Its popularity stems from the balance it provides – not too long nor too short, making it an ideal choice for brides seeking a classic yet practical accessory.
The Subtle Chic Elbow Veil
The elbow veil extends to about 25 to 30 inches and is a classic example of simplicity and elegance. It ends right at the bride’s elbow, making it an excellent choice for more relaxed or intimate ceremonies.
This veil type is particularly flattering with ball gowns and A-line dresses, as it accentuates the waistline. Its shorter length allows for greater freedom of movement and a focus on the upper part of the garment. It’s a perfect pick for brides who prefer simple and comfortable veils that are still stylish.
The Vintage Style Birdcage Veil
Expressing a chic, retro vibe, the birdcage veil ranges from 4 to 9 inches in length to hit the chin. This style is a nod to the glamour of the past, ideal for brides who adore a vintage aesthetic.
It partially covers the face, adding an element of mystique as you walk down the aisle. Often made with netting or lace, it pairs beautifully with both contemporary and classic dress styles, especially those with 1950s flair. The birdcage veil is ideal for city hall weddings or sophisticated, vintage-themed ceremonies.
The Romantic Allure of Mantilla Veils
The mantilla veil, known for its lace-edged beauty, varies in length from fingertip to floor-length. Originating from Spain, it drapes elegantly over the head and shoulders, creating a frame for the face.
This veil is distinguished by its intricate lace trim or tulle, often featuring floral or scalloped patterns. It’s a stunning choice for both traditional and modern weddings, as it adds a touch of cultural richness. A hairstyle such as a low bun or soft waves complements this veil beautifully, enhancing its romantic appeal.
Traditionally Appealing Blusher Veils
The blusher veil, which is typically short and falls to the shoulder or elbow, is steeped in tradition. It’s designed to cover the face during the ceremony’s initial part, lifted later for a dramatic reveal.
This veil adds an element of classic bridal mystique and is often paired with a longer veil for added dimension. The blusher is a charming choice for brides seeking to honor bridal traditions with a contemporary twist.
Whimsical Appeal of Ballet Veils
Typically measuring between 60 to 75 inches, the ballet or waltz veil gracefully cascades to a length that falls between the knee and ankle. This mid-length style offers a good balance between practicality and elegance. It allows ease of movement while still providing a hint of that bridal drama.
It makes an excellent choice for outdoor or more dynamic weddings, where full-length veils might be cumbersome. The ballet veil works well with a wide range of dress styles, particularly those with detailed trains, adding a fluid, dance-like quality to the bride’s ensemble.
Timelessly Stylish Juliet Cap Veil
Echoing the romance of the 1920s, the Juliet cap veil is a vintage-inspired choice, characterized by its snug cap that fits atop the head. This style can be paired with various veil lengths, from short to cathedral, offering versatility.
The Juliet cap veil suits brides seeking a unique, romantic look, and it works wonderfully for both formal ceremonies and more relaxed, bohemian-themed nuptials.
The Fun Flyaway Veil
The flyaway veil, often featuring multiple layers around shoulder length, brings a modern and spirited flair to the bridal look. This style is perfect for less formal, more contemporary weddings.
The flyaway veil pairs effortlessly with shorter dress styles or those with intricate back designs. They ensure the dress remains a focal point while adding a playful, whimsical vibe to the overall look.
Ethereal Beauty of Drop Veil
The drop veil is a beautifully understated choice known for its sheer simplicity and elegance. Characterized by a single layer of tulle or fine fabric, it gently ‘drops’ over the face and down the back, creating a soft, ethereal silhouette.
This style is unique in its seamless look, with no gathering or clips, often held in place with a hairpiece or comb. The drop veil can vary in length, from a demure shoulder-length to a dramatic cathedral style.
Types of Lace Commonly Used in Veils
Incorporating lace into a wedding veil adds a touch of tradition and allows for personal expression. Whether through a full lace creation or subtle accents, a lace veil can beautifully complete the bridal vision.
Chantilly Lace: The lace is celebrated for its delicate floral patterns, offering a soft and feminine allure. With its fine detailing and scalloped edges, Chantilly lace brings a sophisticated charm to veils, making it a favorite for brides who adore a gentle, refined aesthetic.
Alençon Lace: Often hailed as the “queen of lace,” Alençon stands out with its raised cording, weaving through the design to create a mesmerizing three-dimensional effect. This type of lace is an impeccable choice for brides aiming to make a bold statement with its intricate craftsmanship.
Venise Lace: Known for its striking, elaborate designs, Venise lace features large motifs and a rich texture. This type of lace infuses veils with a sense of drama and luxury, perfect for brides who love opulence.
Accessorizing with Veils
Jewelry Pairings
The right jewelry can elevate a bridal look, creating a stunning synergy with the chosen veil. Consider subtle yet elegant earrings, such as pearl studs or small diamond drops for long veils that extend to the floor. These pieces add a hint of sparkle without overshadowing the veil’s impact.
With medium-length veils, brides can opt for bolder necklaces or longer earrings, especially if your hair and dress neckline accommodate such pieces.
For short veils, statement jewelry can be a striking addition. Bold necklaces or vintage-inspired earrings can complement the veil’s style, adding character to the overall look.
Headpieces & Tiaras
Headpieces, crowns, and tiaras can be the crowning glory of a bridal outfit, especially when thoughtfully paired with the veil.
For long veils, a delicate tiara or a minimalist headpiece can add a sense of regality without overwhelming the look.
Brides might explore more ornate headpieces with medium-length veils, perhaps with floral or bejeweled elements, to create a focal point.
With short veils, especially birdcage styles, vintage headpieces or bold tiaras can make a stylish statement, enhancing the veil’s unique appeal.
Choosing your Veil
As we explored the different types of veils, each style tells a story of elegance and self-expression. Whether you go for the classic cathedral veil or are interested in bringing out the quaint charm of a birdcage veil, your choice evokes your personal style and the spirit of your wedding day.
When you decide, aim for harmony between your veil, gown, and accessories, crafting a look that’s uniquely yours. Remember, the ideal veil complements your dress and mirrors your personality.
