When it comes to wedding planning, it’s all about the details! For a bride, one of the most iconic and traditional details is the veil. A veil can enhance the beauty of a bride’s wedding dress and add a touch of romance and elegance to complete her look. The tradition, the flowing fabric, the intricate details – it’s all just so romantic! However, deciding whether or not to wear a veil and choosing the right one for you can be overwhelming. In this blog post, I will cover everything you need to know!
First things first…
To Veil or Not to Veil?
That is the question!
Before diving into the details of choosing the right veil, you’ll need to decide if it’s the right accessory for you. Although it is a timeless tradition, it is not for everyone and your wedding day is all about celebrating what’s uniquely you! If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it – it’s not essential by any means and can be substituted for many other options or headpieces.
Most importantly, the choice is yours!
If you are on the fence about whether or not a veil is right for you, here are a few things to consider:
Personal Style
A veil is a very classic look, but not everyone’s style matches such a traditional element. If you’re going for a modern or boho look for your wedding, you may consider some “unconventional” bridal headpieces or opting out altogether.
Dress Design
If your dress is heavily decorated or embellished, forgoing the veil or choosing a simple, delicate veil are often the most flattering options. If your dress is more simplistic, you may want to choose a more extravagant veil that elevates your bridal look.
Wedding Theme
Imagining your veil as a decoration within your wedding theme can be a helpful way to decide if it fits or what kind would work best. If your theme is vintage or classic, then a veil might be the perfect accessory. If you’re opting for a more modern and minimalistic theme, then a veil might not be necessary.
Choosing the Right Veil
Once you’ve decided to wear a veil, it’s time to choose the right one. This can be a daunting task as there are many different types of veils. But don’t worry, I still have you covered!
First and foremost, the decision is yours! Your veil should make you feel special and beautiful!
Second, choosing the right veil means it will complement your dress … not compete with it.
As I discuss the most popular types of veils, consider how these styles would tie into your bridal look – imagine your veil as the finishing touch!
Common Types of Veils
A Royal or Cathedral
A royal/cathedral veil is typically the longest veil available, reaching 9 feet or more. It’s perfect for brides looking for that dramatic, showstopping look.
Mantilla
A mantilla veil is a Spanish-style veil that features lace or embroidery trim around the edges. It’s traditionally made of tulle or lace and drapes over the head and shoulders.
Blusher
A blusher veil is a short veil that covers the face as the bride walks down the aisle. It’s traditionally lifted by the groom or partner, father, or who walks the bride down the aisle during the ceremony.
Flyaway or Birdcage
A flyaway/birdcage veil is a short veil that covers the face. It’s typically made of netting or lace and adds a vintage or retro flair to any bridal look.
Fingertip
A fingertip veil reaches the bride’s fingertips and is a popular option for brides who want a romantic, classic look.
Once you’ve decided on your veil, you may have a few questions about when to put it on, how to ensure it’s secure, and how long to wear it. Here is what you need to know.
Putting Your Veil On
Timing is key when it comes to wearing your veil. You may want to put your veil on once your gown is on, but it’s best to use your timeline as a guideline. If you will be doing a first look, request the help of a friend, family member, or your stylist to help you put the veil on before leaving your getting-ready room. If you’ll be traveling in a vehicle to your ceremony venue after getting ready, put your veil on when you get there rather than before you leave. This way, it won’t wrinkle, mess up your hair, or rip when you’re getting out of the car.
Securing Your Veil
Whether you’re dancing the night away or walking down the aisle, you’ll want to be sure your veil is secured. You definitely don’t want any slipping to happen mid-shimmy! Our top tip for securing your veil is to use a few extra bobby pins that match your hair color, in addition to the comb it comes with, to attach the veil to your hair at the sides and back of your head. This will provide much-needed extra support and make sure that your look stays complete throughout the night! So if you want your full bridal look for photos, as well as on the dance floor, head on over to get some hair pins today!
Taking Your Veil Off
How long you decide to wear your veil is completely up to you! There are a few options to choose from:
1. Having your veil be an all-day and all-night staple.
2. Wearing it for the ceremony and photos afterward but removing it for the reception.
3. Swapping your ceremony veil for another, shorter veil or different type of headpiece for the rest of the day and reception.
If you like idea number 3, you might want to purchase a two-piece veil.
Veil Assistance
Whenever the time comes to take off your veil, it’s important to have assistance. If your stylist won’t be there to help, ask them beforehand to show a trusted bridesmaid, family member, or friend how to properly remove it. To make sure you’re prepared, here’s some extra guidance! You’ll first want to remove the pins while keeping the veil’s comb in place. The person removing your veil should place one hand under the veil on top of your hair so the comb can be removed gently. Then, they’ll tilt the comb away from your head when pulling it out so it comes off smoothly.
Overall, the most important takeaway is that whether you choose to veil or not to veil should be determined by what will make you feel the best on your special day! The veil (or no veil) is another reflection of your personal style and wedding vision. If you decide to veil remind yourself that with so many options to choose from, there is no doubt that the perfect veil is out there for you. Sometimes it just takes a little guidance.
