Hey there, soon-to-be blushing brides!
So, you’ve found the dress of your dreams, and now it’s time to talk veils because what’s a stunning gown without the perfect veil? Am I right?
Imagine you’re walking down the aisle in your breathtaking wedding attire, and that delicate piece of fabric trailing behind you is turning heads and stealing hearts.
No wonder there is a colossal pool of styles, lengths, and embellishments when it comes to finding the right veil. But how do you choose the one that’s just as fabulous as you are?
Well, there’s no room for worries here!
With this article, let’s dive into some of the tips that’ll leave you saying, “I do” to the perfect veil for your chosen wedding dresses.
Let’s do this! Read further to know more!
Consider Your Dress Style
Before delving into the world of veils, take a moment to reflect on the style of your wedding gowns. Your wedding dress is the leading lady, and the veil is its supporting actor.
If your dress boasts heavy detailing, opt for a simpler veil to avoid stealing the spotlight. On the other hand, if your dress is more understated, a lavish veil can elevate the overall look, creating perfect harmony.
Length Matters
Veil lengths vary from short and sweet to dramatic and floor-sweeping. Each length creates a distinct vibe and complements different dress styles. Here’s a quick rundown of the most common lengths:
Birdcage Veil:
- Length: 9-12 inches
- Characteristics: Short and stylish, typically covering the face to the chin or slightly below. Ideal for vintage or modern-themed weddings.
Shoulder-Length Veil:
- Length: 20-22 inches
- Characteristics: Grazes the shoulders, adding a touch of romance without overwhelming the gown. Perfect for casual or outdoor weddings.
Elbow-Length Veil:
- Length: 25-30 inches
- Characteristics: Falls to the bride’s elbows, offering a classic and timeless look. Complements various dress styles and is versatile for different wedding themes.
Fingertip-Length Veil:
- Length: 36-40 inches
- Characteristics: Reaches the fingertips when the bride’s arms are extended. This length is popular for its flattering silhouette and ability to enhance the dress without being too extravagant.
Waltz-Length Veil:
- Length: 54-60 inches
- Characteristics: Falls between the knee and ankle, creating a graceful and flowing effect. Ideal for brides who want a longer veil without the hassle of a cathedral length.
Chapel-Length Veil:
- Length: 90 inches
- Characteristics: Extends to the floor or slightly beyond, adding a touch of drama without being as formal as a cathedral-length veil. Works well with various dress styles.
Cathedral-Length Veil:
- Length: 108-120+ inches
- Characteristics: A grand and formal veil that trails behind the bride, often extending beyond the gown’s train. Perfect for elaborate and traditional weddings.
Royal-Length Veil:
- Length: 144 inches or more
- Characteristics: The longest veil, often chosen for a royal or fairy-tale-inspired look. Creates a stunning and majestic entrance for the bride.
Hairstyle Decisions
Your hairstyle plays a significant role in determining the type of veil that will align with your overall look. Before deciding whether the veil should sit above, below, or within your hairstyle, here are a few tips to consider.
Updo:
If you opt for an elegant updo, consider a veil that can be secured above the bun or a shorter veil that falls gracefully from the crown. A cathedral-length veil can make a stunning statement for this kind of hairstyle.
Half-Up, Half-Down:
This hairstyle allows for various veil placements. A veil attached to the crown or just above the gathered hair can create a romantic and ethereal look.
Loose Waves:
For a bohemian or beachy vibe, consider a longer, flowing veil that complements the relaxed waves of your hair.
Accent Braids:
Accent braided hairstyles can be beautifully complemented by a cascading veil that gracefully falls over your shoulder.
Short Hair:
For women with short hair, a birdcage veil is a classic choice that frames the face nicely.
Personalizing Choices
Are you planning to add your spouse’s name on the veil or any romantic quote that sums up your relationship’s philosophy? If yes, consider personalizing your veil either by incorporating a piece of heirloom fabric, hand-written love notes, sequin or crystal work, floral appliqués, or any special embroidery with your initials, wedding date, or hashtags!
Ultimately, it’s your wedding day, and the veil should reflect your individuality, making it a standout element on your special day.
Try it Out
Just like you try multiple bridal dresses until you find “the one” that steals your heart, then do not even hesitate to experiment with different veil styles. Veils come in all shapes and sizes; some might feel more comfortable, while some might not!
Also, trying on various lengths and designs lets you see how they look in pictures, ensuring you’ll shine in person and on your wedding album.
Embrace Embellishments
When your attire and veil are in perfect sync, the overall look turns out to be pure magic. Imagine your dress and veil, both adorned with embellishments that make your wedding outfit uniquely yours!
Whether it’s lace, beads, sequins, or embroidery, select details that enhance the overall aesthetic and add a memorable element to your wedding look.
The Iconic Veils
The Super Veil of Priyanka Chopra Jonas
There would be absolutely no one on this earth who was not mesmerized by the iconic veil of the global superstar Priyanka Chopra Jonas. The dreamy 75-foot-long tulle veil captivated everyone and fulfilled her dream of a princess wedding at the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, India, on December 1, 2018.
Her all-white wedding gown, a Ralph Lauren creation, was an incredible showcase of the exquisite craftsmanship of 15 artisans, who took 1,826 hours to create the gorgeous outfit.
The Royal Veil of Meghan Markle
When talking about veils, how can one forget the grand wedding affair of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle? The momentous occasion was held on May 19, 2018, in St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle in the United Kingdom.
Meghan’s Givenchy wedding gown incorporated a 16.5-foot-long hand-embroidered silk tulle veil that exceeded the hours spent on creating the wedding gown. Each inch of the veil was adorned with flowers, symbolizing all 53 countries of the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
The level of craftsmanship was so professional and delicate that artisans had to cleanse their hands every 30 minutes to ensure the tulle and threads remained pristine.
The Dramtic Veil of Hailey Beiber
Who isn’t aware of the beautiful wedding of Justin Beiber and Hailey Rhode Baldwin at the New York City courthouse on September 13, 2018? Hailey Bieber’s dramatic cathedral-length veil, designed by the Late American fashion designer Virgil Abloh, was engraved with their relationship quote, “Till Death Do Us Part.”
For her wedding dress, she wore a trendy off-shoulder look, long sleeves, and a stunning fishtail skirt topped off with a lovely lace train.
Bottom Line
So, there you have it, a guide to picking the perfect veil! The decision to select a veil might seem like a minor one, but it can make a big difference in your overall look. It’s not just about finding a piece of fabric to put on your head; it’s about discovering the veil that makes you feel like the superstar bride you were born to be.
So, take your time, try different options, make it memorable, and rock your amazing aisle appearance!
