Choosing wedding veil lengths and styles can be one of the most foreign tasks to complete when shopping for a bridal look. After all, in our modern world, a veil is one accessory almost exclusively reserved for brides and rarely seen outside of a wedding event, so most people don’t typically have experience shopping for one. Originally worn as a sign of modesty and a symbol of good luck, the wedding day adornment is now seen by many brides as a means of adding an ethereal note to their dress. A veil can be a simple stretch of sheer white tulle or a colorful creation with embroidery and appliqués. Veil style equates to personal style, so it’s up to brides-to-be to decide what kind of veil best suits their ceremony look.
Recently, there’s been a marked uptick in interest in veils that push the envelope of what a veil can be, or look like. Consider Hailey Bieber’s ‘Till Death Do Us Part’ veil by Off-White–a great inspo for brides who’d like to incorporate a personal message into their look. “Like song lyrics from your first dance, your initials, or your wedding date,” suggests bridal stylist Gabrielle Hurwitz. She reports that more and more brides are out to make a fashion statement when they walk down the aisle, and they are embracing high-drama veils in pursuit of ‘wow’ factor. “There’s nothing like a veil to say, ‘Here comes the bride.’”
Considering pushing the boundaries with your blusher? Don’t be afraid to think outside the box, Hurwitz counsels. “Designer Hermione de Paula has even incorporated a client’s pet and favorite flowers into her veil,” she says. “If that’s too bold for you, try extra length, like Priyanka Chopra-Jonas’ 75-foot-long veil—but maybe not that long. You can also incorporate a pop of color with 3D floral appliqués like you see in some of Monique Lhuillier’s floral veils.”
How to Choose the Right Veil for Your Wedding Dress Style
The best rule of thumb when choosing a veil is to think about how it balances with the rest of your attire. After all, a veil is an accessory, and like all accessories, it’s there to complement your look, not compete with it. Contrast is fine–you can accentuate a minimalist silhouette via a veil with some volume, a dramatic embroidered design, or appliqués.
Subtler types of coordination include mirroring the lace pattern on your dress in the trim of your veil, for instance; it’s also good to think about the proportions of your wedding veil lengths. A long cathedral veil goes perfectly with a dramatic train, while a short tulle style serves as a sweet pairing with a suit or mini dress. While a minimal veil and dress can work great together, take a second before purchasing two very loud designs in contrasting patterns or shades. And remember, it can look absolutely beautiful pairing a veil and dress from different designers. Just try to have a reference photo or bring your veil along to shopping appointments and fittings so you have a clear idea of your ceremony aesthetic.
