The Ultimate Wedding Veil Guide:
Your Top 20 Wedding Veil Questions – Answered!
Most of the questions we receive have to do with wedding veils. It’s the topic that seems to baffle our brides the most. Just when you’ve got a handle on the difference between a fishtail and a ballgown dress, you’re being asked whether you’d like your veil fully gathered or centre gathered and what does that even mean anyway!?
So, here we have your Top 20 veil related questions, answered by the people who make them!
Table of Contents
Jump To…
- How long should your wedding veil be?
- Should you get a white veil?
- When should you order your wedding veil?
- Should you get a matching lace veil?
- What are the different gathering options for veils?
- Why do brides wear wedding veils?
- What lengths do wedding veils come in?
- How do you store a wedding veil?
- Who lifts the veil at a wedding?
- Can I wear a veil with my hair down?
- Can you iron a wedding veil?
- What are the different types of Wedding veils?
- Should your headpiece be attached to your veil?
- Do wedding veils come with a comb attached?
- What are wedding veils made from?
- What is a blusher veil?
- Do you wear a veil during the evening reception?
- Why do veils come in different widths?
- What are the different edge finishes for veils?
- Which type of beading should I have on my veil?
1. How long should my wedding veil be?
We usually get this question from brides looking for long, full-length veils. What they’re trying to figure out, essentially, is the length of the train they have on their dress so they can buy the appropriate length veil to match with it.
There are three standard full-length veils — floor length, chapel length, and cathedral length. We’ve dug through our real bride archives to find some examples of each train length paired with its perfect matching veil so you can hopefully get a sense of where on this scale your own dress fits.
For brides looking for something a little shorter, a great way to decide on a length is to look at your dress’ overall shape and try to find a spot that makes sense to you visually. For example, fingertip length looks great paired with mermaid/fishtail gowns that kick out from the same area on the body. Whereas a gown with a natural waistline looks great with waist length (or possibly elbow length if you’re petite). You’ve already got a horizontal line there from the waistline detail — be it a seam, a belt or other embellishment — so your veil may as well finish there too. There’s no sense in creating extra, unnecessary horizontal lines, am I right ladies?
Don’t forget to check out our full Length Guide for more ideas.
2. My wedding dress looks white. Should I get a white veil?
Oh my. Even just reading this question makes us hyperventilate.
This is something that comes up a lot! So much so, that even without seeing your dress we’d feel confident enough to say that your dress is very likely to be at least an off white, if not a pale ivory, as most sample dresses in bridal boutiques are some form of ivory. It’s just more flattering against the skin than pure, arctic white. So even if your dress looks really pale and you’re sure it must be white, 9 times out of 10, in our experience, it isn’t.
The best thing to do to reassure yourself would be to call your dress shop and ask them to confirm the colour they’ve ordered your dress in from the supplier/designer.
*cough* Bet it’s ivory! *cough*
Don’t forget to check out our Colour Guide for more on this.
3. When should I order my wedding veil?
Well, hang on a minute. Let me just dig out our handy-dandy little infographic!
We believe the best time to order your veil and accessories is around 4-6 months before the Big Day. Obviously, it depends where you’re getting them from (ahem…) — overseas orders, for example, can take a lot longer. Speaking only for ourselves for a moment, our typical lead time for veils is 3 weeks as they’re made to order, but we also accommodate more urgent orders on request. You just need to add on our Rush Service when you order online.
4. My dress has lace. Should I get a matching lace veil?
When it comes to matching up to a lace dress, we find brides tend to be in one of two camps. They either decide that the dress is detailed enough and any more lace would be overkill, or they fall in love with lace so much that there’s no such thing as too much anymore!
The good thing is, the lace on your veil doesn’t have to be an exact match to your dress. However, if you speak to someone who’s familiar working with laces such as ourselves, they’ll be able to at least help you match the “type” of lace. For example, is it Corded, French, Guipure, etc? We work with a wonderful lace supplier who has more than 500 lace trims and appliqués to choose from so there’s sure to be one that will complement your dress in there somewhere. And you don’t have to have lace all over the veil, either. If you love lace but are worried about it all being a bit too much, you could always go for a long veil and have lace just around the base curve so that it extends past your train and doesn’t actually cover the dress at all.
Check out our current lace veil designs.
5. What are the different gathering options for veils?
There are three main gathering styles for veils – ungathered, centre gathered and fully gathered.
The ungathered style is the easiest to explain; it has no gathering at all and is often described as a drop veil due to the way it sits quite flat to the head and hangs in a drop (think Kate Middleton). A Mantilla is also completely ungathered. See question 12 — What are the different types of veils?
Moving on to centre gathered and fully gathered — these two options are much more commonly seen, with the centre gathered style being the more popular of the two. The main difference between the two styles is the shape at the sides; the centre gathered style has a pretty cascade effect at the sides and has sections that can be brought around the arms and shoulders if desired, whereas the fully gathered style is much more narrow but also a lot fuller at the comb as it has twice the amount of fabric gathered there compared to the centre gathered option.
Check out our video explaining this further, and have a look at some more great example pictures on our full veil gathering guide.
6. Why do brides wear wedding veils?
The tradition of the bridal veil dates back centuries. One of the original reasons for veiling the bride was to hide her face from the groom prior to the wedding because it was, and still is for most people, thought to be bad luck for the groom to see the bride before the ceremony.
These days, the tradition has loosened somewhat as they often do. And although it’s still common for the bride and groom to spend the night before the wedding apart, it is now also perfectly common to see an unveiled bride walking down the aisle. We often ask our brides if they plan to wear the blusher over the face as it helps us figure out if a one or two tier veil is required. About 50% of our brides answer yes.
Moving on from tradition and the original meaning of the veil, nowadays a veil is worn for style reasons. It’s a fashion piece. A way to add that extra “something” to a bridal look or just to add detail to an otherwise plain gown. It also helps set the correct tone. These days, wedding dresses come in much sexier silhouettes and designs that may be very close-fitting, with ultra-low backs and/or sheer illusion panels. Adding a veil can instantly make that kind of gown look more “bridal” and modest.
Gotta keep Grandma happy, am I right?
For a more detailed history of the veil’s meaning and the traditions surrounding it, visit its Wikipedia’s page.
7. What lengths do wedding veils come in?
It differs from place to place, but consistently there are about 4-6 common lengths. The most popular of those being waist length (sometimes called a 54 inch), fingertip length (72 inch), chapel length (126 inch), and finally cathedral length (144 inch). These figures are the total combined length of the longer bottom layer and the shorter top layer that goes over the bride’s face.
For ourselves, our veils come in 9 different lengths. We’ve sneaked in a couple of in-between lengths such as hip length (goes between waist length and fingertip length) to give brides of all heights more options. You can view them all on our Length Guide page.
All our measurements listed are from comb to end and are not rounded up to include the blusher (the bit that goes over the face) measurement as in the examples above. We make a lot of single layer veils that don’t have a blusher, so we prefer to list all lengths individually. That way if you get your tape measure out at home, they’ll measure exactly what was stated with no surprises.
Check out our comprehensive guide to veil lengths.
8. How do you store a wedding veil?
Caring for your bridal veil at home, especially if it’s a very long one, can take some careful planning.
The absolute ideal situation would be if someone has a spare bedroom where it can be left to hang, undisturbed and safe from any pets (and future husbands!), right up until the wedding. Obviously, this won’t be possible for everyone. You may have no option but to leave it in its box until nearer the date. At that time, it would naturally have acquired some wrinkles. To help smooth them out, you can steam it at home using a hand-held steamer or a steam shot iron, so long as you don’t let the hot plate of the iron actually touch the tulle. (See question 11 — Can you iron a wedding veil?) Or you can take it to a local dry cleaner and have them steam it for you.
9. Who lifts the veil at a wedding?
There are a couple of options for this, and ultimately it’s up to each bride and groom how they want their ceremony to go.
Option one would be to have the Father of the Bride lift the veil once the bride reaches the top of the aisle as a way of presenting her to her soon-to-be husband. This can be quite a sweet moment and it takes care of it early so you don’t have to think about it again. You could even have a little practice before you make your entrance.
With option two, the bride keeps the blusher over her face for the entire ceremony and waits for that movie-worthy “you may now kiss the bride” moment. This time it would be her new husband that lifts the veil, to raucous applause, I’m sure.
Personally we prefer option one. It means the blusher is out of the way during the whole ceremony so if you need to you can wipe away any tears that may be threatening to fall on your gorgeous makeup.
10. Can I wear a veil with my hair down?
You can wear a veil with your hair down, although I won’t lie to you, it is the hardest way to secure it as there’s not really anything there for the comb to grab on to. Having your hair half-up-half-down would be slightly easier, but either way, you’d need to secure the comb into the hair with Kirby grips. For this to work, you need to make sure the veil you purchase has a metal comb. A comb with plastic teeth would snap when you attempt to grip it in.
All our veils come on 7.5cm wide metal combs as shown below. Your hairdresser can backcomb, or may even choose to plait, horizontally, a very small section of hair, no more than an inch wide, where the comb will be inserted to give it an anchor. It can then be gripped in from either side. Be sure to discuss all your options with your stylist.
11. Can you iron a wedding veil?
In a word: No! Most definitely not. We don’t ever want a repeat of the phone call we got from a devastated bride who had done just that and burned a lovely iron-shaped hole into her precious veil!
Nylon tulle melts instantly above a certain temperature. And since you’ve no way of testing for that temperature on your one and only veil, you just can’t risk it. As veil makers, we do use an iron here at the studio, but we have rigorously tested for the maximum temperature our tulle can stand. And as your veil is steamed and crease-free directly before it goes in its box, it should only have very light creasing when you open it.
So what can you do to remove creases? You can steam your veil! We’ve written a dedicated on post on steaming your veil as well as other wedding veil care, storage and preservation tips in this post: Wedding Veil Care: Helpful Storage, Cleaning & Steaming Tips
12. What are the different types of Wedding veils?
There are a few different wedding veil styles. Some examples of these are shown below.
- One layer
- Two layer (blusher)
- Mantilla
- Drop
- Angel Cut
- Barely there
- Waterfall
- Juliet cap
- Drape
- Bubble
- Birdcage
- Visor/Bandeau
- Skull cap
The most popular wedding veil styles by far would be the simple one or two layer veil. This is your classic, traditional veil. All of the other options are designed to create slightly different shapes and looks and are a more alternative option.
Read more about the different types of veils here: 9 Beautiful Wedding Veil Styles You Should Know About
13. Should your headpiece be attached to your veil?
These days it’s much more common for them to be separate pieces. That way, if you want to remove your veil later on for the reception so you can boogie on down, you still have a pretty hair accessory in place.
On occasion, we have been asked to attach a veil straight onto a headpiece or onto a plain headband for brides who wear wigs or have ultra-fine hair, etc. We’re more than happy to do this or any other kind of attachments as necessary. Just ask!
Check out some of our gorgeous headpieces.
14. Do wedding veils come with a comb attached?
They sure do! That’s the standard attachment for veils. As we mentioned in an earlier question, we use high-quality metal combs that can be gripped into place so they are secure even if your hair is worn loose.
The only exceptions to this could be un-gathered drop or mantilla styles. We actually do still add a comb to ours if it’s possible to do so and still look okay. We can hide one under the lace on a mantilla, for example. But sometimes they do come without anything on at all and you’d be expected to secure it some other way such as with hat pins. I know most brides would find it easier to have a simple comb, so we use them unless we’re asked not to.
15. What are wedding veils made from?
Veils are almost always made from bridal illusion tulle. This is a soft and sheer type of nylon netting that’s made specifically for creating veils. Of course, there can be exceptions to this where they’re made from more non-traditional fabrics such as organza or chiffon. However, as these fabrics aren’t nearly as sheer, they’re not ideal. Especially if you want to wear the blusher over the face for the ceremony. Seeing where you are walking during the most important walk of your life is a must!
We have a couple of fabric additions to complement the traditional bridal illusion tulle. We recently we added a “silk effect” tulle, which is available on selected styles, and we also have a shimmer or “sparkle” tulle available in three colours and on selected styles.
16. What is a blusher veil?
A blusher veil is the classic, traditional style with the layer that is worn over the face for the ceremony. Any veil with more than one layer can be worn as a blusher veil. There was a time when they all would’ve had two layers and every bride would wear it over the face without exception. But as we mentioned in an earlier question, these days only about half of brides choose to go this route.
If you want your blusher to be extra sheer, choose a centre gathered or drop veil style. These will have less gather lines running vertically in front of your face.
Blushers are typically around waist length (30 inches) unless, of course, the veil itself is shorter than that.
You can check out all the individual layer lengths in our Length Guide or go here to view all of our two layer veils.
17. Do you wear a veil during the evening reception?
It’s really up to you. There are no hard and fast rules. But I think if you have opted for a long one you would probably want to remove it at some point during the evening. Even if it’s just to stop other guests standing on it!
Also, a lot of dresses have the option to bustle them up — to shorten the train to floor length by means of a ribbon and loop inside the skirt. So if your dress has this option, it would be strange to then still have a super long veil trailing behind you, no?
For shorter styles, fingertip length or above, you could easily wear it all day and all night and forget it’s even there!
18. Why do veils come in different widths?
They come in different widths to match the large array of wedding dress shapes and to create different looks. For example, a sheath or column dress looks great with a slim width veil. An A-line or mermaid gown looks great with a medium width style. And a ballgown looks fabulous with a really full veil.
However, like with everything else, there are no set-in-stone rules. For example, below our gorgeous real bride Abigail is wearing a slim dress with an absolutely enormous veil. She really wanted it to make an impact, so instead of just going for the typical size you might expect for the dress, she chose the widest fabric and an extra long custom length. Playing around with width and length options opens up all kinds of possibilities! And, hey — if it’s good enough for Meghan Markle…
Go here to check out our full guide to veil widths.
19. What are the different edge finishes for veils?
Some typical edge finishes that can be commonly found on wedding veils would be…
- Ribbon edge
- Hand cut edge
- Lace edge
- Fine sewn “pencil” edge
- Corded edge
- Wired (curly) edge
- Scalloped (shaped) edge
- Satin binding edge
- Rhinestone edge
- Pearl edge
More close-up images of all of these edges can be found in our Edge Finish Guide. Or click on each option above for real veil examples in our collections.
The most popular edges by far are the cut and pencil edges found on our simple floaty veils. These edgings are so delicate and subtle that they literally go with ANY dress.
20. Which type of beading should I have on my veil?
The type of beading you choose is going to depend on a few things.
First, what’s on the dress? If the dress already has beading, you may as well tie it into the design. So try to notice if your dress has silvery diamantes, or pearls, or both!
Second, what other accessories do you already have? If you’re wearing an heirloom headpiece, it might be nice to incorporate some similar beads into the veil to help it all work together a little more cohesively.
And third, what do you like? Because if you want you can just throw point one and two out the window and go with that!
For an even more in-depth answer on this, check out our guide to veil beading.
Wedding Veil Guide
And that’s it! 20 questions about wedding veils answered by the people who actually make them. If you made it all the way to the end of this post you can now officially apply for a job because you know as much as we do! 🙂
Do you have a question we didn’t answer? You can add to our wedding veil guide by commenting below!
And don’t forget to check out some of our other more in-depth wedding veil guides on a selection of questions/topics such as our…
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Hello, you sort of answered my question in the ‘What beading’ section, but I’m just checking! I love the idea of a veil with scattered pearls. However, my dress is a bit boho with lace and no beading. Would the pearls go? Thanks, Lucy
Hi Lucy,
I absolutely think lace and pearls are a winning combination! And pearls aren’t too “glitzy” so they can definitely go with a boho look in my opinion. Have you seen our Matilda veil? That’s a pretty pearl one. 🙂
Hey guys, I’ve found this extremely informative and helpful!
The comment above has also given me ideas 😀 My dress is the Olson by Maggie Soterro and I wondered if you could suggest a veil for me? I don’t want it to be any longer than hip and do like the Matilda but maybe i’m biased being a Matilda 😛
Haha! Hi Matilda!
Okay, but what if it’s not bias that’s happening, but fate… 😛
I actually do think the Matilda drop veil would suit the style of your dress. It’s sheer and un-gathered giving it a very soft, feminine vibe. And it just has a few tiny glass pearls scattered throughout so it’s not too “busy” as your dress has beautiful lace detail already.
Lynsey
Thank you so much for providing this guide, it is so helpful for brides who really don’t know which direction to go with their veil (like me!)
I will be wearing Daenerys by Badgley Mischka and am thinking that I should go for an elbow or fingertip single layer veil with no decorations so as to match the train.
I would be so grateful if you would recommend a veil for me, or let me know if I am going for the correct style?
Thank you for saying so! And oh-my-gosh I’ve just Googled your dress and it’s divine! I’d go for the fingertip length so that it ends right where the dress nips in. If you want it totally plain there’s either Tina: https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/short-veils/fingertip-length-veils/tina-one-tier-plain-cut-edge-wedding-veil-in-fingertip-length/ or Lauren:https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/short-veils/fingertip-length-veils/lauren-single-layer-fingertip-length-veil-with-a-pencil-edge/ which has just a teensy tiny pencil edge 🙂
This was so useful to read! I am currently trying to figure out what type of veil would be best. I am wearing separates, and erring towards a single-layer chapel veil, but not sure if that’s the right length for the outfit, or if I should get a plain veil, or with some lace to tie in with the top. I keep thinking plain is better, but your veils are so beautiful. Incase you are able to provide any recommendations, here is a link to what my outfit will look like, although the skirt is not as full with tulle. Thank you for any help you may be able to provide! https://stylishbrideaccs.com/collections/all-bridal/products/dusty-blue-indigo-ombre-wedding-tulle-dress-with-belle-lace-top
Oh wow! Blue! I love it! 🙂
I like your idea of chapel length. My first instinct is plain to tie in with the raw cut skirt and leave the lace detail as your top only. The blue ombre is already such a fab detail for the train I don’t feel like it needs a lace trim adding there.
The bigger question is what colour veil are you going to have? Are you sticking with the ivory of the top? You know we can make you a pale blue veil right? 🙂
Ah thank you so much! I think I want to stick with ivory for the veil- I did toy with blue, but I think I want the slightly more classic veil look to feel more ‘bridal’. I guess I should order some swatches and match them with the top when I get it then! Thank you very much for your help 🙂
You’re very welcome 🙂
Thanks for the guide. Very helpful. I’m looking at the Brittany veil with a satin edge to go with my structured mermaid dress Amanecer by St Patrick. I have ordered swatches from you and know I need a light ivory colour. But can’t make my mind up between illusion tulle and Italian style tulle. Are there any examples of models in Italian style tulle? I think it needs to be quite structured to go with my dress.
Hi,
Thank you! Yes we did once photograph a veil in Italian style tulle here: https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Paige-two-layer-chapel-length-plain-wedding-veil-on-a-bride.jpg
It’s a little less sheer that the Illusion as you can probably tell from the samples. Hope it helps!
Hi! And help! I was wondering if you could recommend a veil for me, I’m a little daunted with so many choices… I’ll be wearing the Galia lahav Martha dress, any suggestions appreciated!
Hi Millie!
Oh my gosh… I’ve just spent several minutes drooling over your dress. I LOVE Galia lahav!
So… there’s obviously more than one veil that would work. But I love a long veil. And especially if you’ll be wearing the detachable train (I wouldn’t wear a short veil above that I don’t think). So you could go long, plain, and quite wide and dramatic with something like our Jessica veil. This will be wide enough to wear over the detachable train, and still look fab without it. I chose a plain veil for you because the dress is already quite detailed with all the 3D lace elements. 🙂
https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/plain-veils/jessica-one-layer-cathedral-length-extra-wide-veil-with-a-simple-edge/
Love the info on this site! I bought the maggie sottero “olivia” gown and thinking of a fingertip veil. I’m leaning towards a lightly sequined/beaded veil just on the edging but maybe thinking a plain raw edge veil might be nice since the dress has a beautiful back. I need help! Any ideas would be much appreciated. Thanks!
Hi Shannon!
I’ve just looked up your dress! It’s gorgeous. 🙂
I think you could definitely go for plain veil and let that gorgeous back detail do all the talking. Or perhaps mostly plain with either a few beads like you said or maybe some teeny-tiny lace pieces just around the bottom.
This guide is so informative and helpful thanks. Can I please have some recommendations, my wedding dress is the casablanca mc kenna style 2398 in blush and ivory with silver beading and pearls as in photo on website. I am going to get a full cathedral veil do you think I should get an ivory or blush veil?. Also do you think a plain veil or a veil with beading and pearls are the edges would be better? Thanks so much for your advice
Hi Sandra!
Just been to look at your dress! It’s gorgeous and it’s fully pink — I’m not seeing any ivory elements — so I would go for the Blush Pink tulle.
As for plain or beaded, I think you could afford to add a bit of sparkle as the dress detail isn’t too in your face.
Lynsey 🙂
Hi this is a really good site and has helped me out a lot. I think I know what I want but a second opinion would really help. I will be wearing a Justin Alexandra dress style 88110. In ivory. Any help on the type of veil would help me a great deal
Oh wow! I’ve just looked at the dress and it has pockets and now my day is made 🙂
I could see something really soft, sheer and transparent like our Caitlyn veil working for you: https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/plain-veils/caitlyn-two-layer-chapel-length-veil-with-a-cut-edge-and-extra-long-blusher/
I have a question…which side should we fix the applique on the veil…i mean the shorter portion…coz wen we put the veil on face it turns the back side
Yes, it does do that. It should be on the side facing out the right way when the veil is worn off the face since this is how it will be seen 99% of the time. 🙂
Hello – firstly just to say this website has been HUGELY helpful in understanding what the different styles/lengths of veils are called and how they look! I will be wearing the Josie dress by Rebecca Ingram and have always wanted a drop veil with a blusher for our traditional church ceremony. Given that the dress is quite plain, with the detail of the buttons down the back, I wondered if a pearl embellishment would suit. I initially thought the falling stars style would be best but, after a brief look on pinterest I really like the look of pearls scattered mainly around the head and trailing offf… kind of an opposite to the falling stars if that makes sense?! I would love to hear any recommendations you might have! Many thanks https://www.maggiesottero.com/rebecca-ingram/josie/15706
Hi
Ooh I love the classic cut of your dress. So beautiful!
Yes, I do know what you mean. In fact, we used to do a drop veil called Opal that was very similar to what you describe. This look tends to look nice with mixed sized pearls for a bit of variety. Like the ones on our Violet veil here: https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/beaded-veils/violet-single-layer-barely-there-veil-in-fingertip-length-with-mixed-size-pearls/
If you want to get in touch directly we can dig into the details. 🙂
Lynsey
…and thank you! For your kind words about the site!
Hi I am going to be wearing the kenneth winston 1745 dress in champagne. As an older bride I am really deliberating about wearing a veiI I don’t want to look too “princessy” but am worried i might not feel like a bride. What veil would you suggest ?
Thanks
Jane.
Hi Jane!
The tulle in your dress looks SO similar to our Italian Style tulle – I think possibly the slightly pinky Oyster Pink shade might actually match better than the Champagne, but you can see both in person in our Deeper Colours sample pack here: https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/extras/veil-fabric-samples-deeper-colours/
For the style, how about a shorter length veil that nips in at the waist? Waist length or elbow length depending on your height. Perhaps with our silver sparkly rhinestone trim to highlight the lovely bodice detail? I just made one like that in Oyster Pink and it was really sweet.
Lynsey
Hi which veil would you recommend for chiara Ronald Joyce wedding dress been looking at cathedral length with crystals
Hi Paula! Happy New Year!
Well, we have these designs here:
https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/beaded-veils/serena-two-layer-cathedral-length-veil-with-crystals-falling-stars/
https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/beaded-veils/alexis-one-layer-cathedral-length-veil-with-scattered-pearls-crystals/
https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/beaded-veils/lottie-two-layer-cathedral-length-veil-with-scattered-diamantes/
https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/beaded-veils/phoenix-one-layer-cathedral-length-veil-with-diamantes-falling-stars/
Or you could always start from scratch with a cathedral + crystal/diamante design of your own using our Custom Veil Designer here: https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/custom-veils/custom-veil-designer/
Lynsey
Hi! Thank you for this very informative website. I don’t have any knowledge at all when it comes to veils not until I’ve read this page. I would like to ask what kind and length of the veil can you suggest please. I will be wearing this simple ivory dress Alicia by Loulou full length in an outdoor garden wedding. You’re suggestions will be very much appreciated. Thank you!
Hi Osel!
I’m not sure I’m finding the right dress. When I search for “Alicia by Loulou” I keep coming across a short, tea-length one. Could you link it?
Hi,
Just been looking through the FAQ’s. So helpful thank you.
I’m struggling to find a veil to go with my dress, it’s a Morilee Riva 2077 in Ivory. I would like a chapel length veil but not sure which one to go for to compliment my dress. Any suggestions would be fab
Thank you x
Oooh lovely dress. And there was a video too!
Your dress has so many beautiful lace elements and that lovely low scoop back. What I might suggest is to just frame your train with a nice wide chapel length veil that’s fairly simple and sheer. A one layer one (assuming you don’t mind not being able to wear the veil over the face for the ceremony?) like our Brooke would be great: https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/plain-veils/brooke-simple-one-layer-chapel-length-veil-with-a-pencil-edge/
You can see a bunch of other past brides wearing the Brooke veil in this blog post too: https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/style-file/popular-wedding-veil/
If you’re looking for the most see-through tulle, go for our Bridal Illusion. 🙂
Lynsey
Hello 😊
This guide is amazing! Thank you.
I had planned on going to try on veils at my local bridal shop but our wedding day is fast approaching (if it goes ahead) so now I think I’m going to have to buy blind!
I have the Morilee #5216 but have added tulle draped sleeves.
I had envisioned a two length cathedral length veil, but not sure it going to be too much?
What would you recommend ?
I have ordered the tulle samples so hoping they will be here this week 😊
Thanks so much for your help.
Hi Jessica!
Ooh that’s a proper princess dress! Love it. 🙂
Yes, a long traditional cathedral veil would be lovely with it. Maybe our Lottie veil with a few sparkly diamantes? https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/beaded-veils/lottie-two-layer-cathedral-length-veil-with-scattered-diamantes/
Lynsey
Hi,
Just to say – this guide is very helpful!
I have 2 questions about wearing a blusher and chapel veil
is it possible to remove the longer piece of the veil and wear the blusher (flipped back) only during the evening without removing the comb?
Is it possible to get a longer blusher so that it is finger length/ballet length when flipped back
Hi Natasha!
Yes, both of those things are possible. You’d just need a detachable veil.
Sometimes brides want to be able to remove the blusher, and sometimes they want to be be able to remove the longer layer for dancing. We’ve done it both ways before.
If you’re worried about the removing of the comb part, one option we’ve done before is to simply make each layer as a separate veil on its own comb. Our combs are metal and curved and so you can quite comfortably wear two combs at the same time sandwiched together. Then just wiggle the longer comb out from underneath later in the day. Assuming, that is, that your hairdresser hasn’t gripped it in. In which case you might need a bit of assistance from a bridesmaid. 🙂
If you’re interested in this idea, send us an email and we’ll sort you out.
sales@theweddingveilshop.co.uk
Lynsey
Hi! Can you please recommend a veil for my dress?
https://www.enchantingbymoncheri.com/enchanting-by-mon-cheri/fall-2017/217108
I went for a fitting and the seamstress suggested a 36″ fingertip veil. I also would like two tier.
Thank you!!
Oooh that’s gorgeous! Love the thigh split 😉
Two-tier, hip length, and I’m guessing fairly plain as it’s lacey at the top? How about the Megan veil: https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/plain-veils/megan-two-layer-hip-length-veil-with-a-pencil-edge/
Hi there,
Please could you advise on what length veil you would recommend with a midaxi length dress? My dress is by Emilia Wickstead with a simple bodice and A-line skirt which I’m pairing with an ivory headband from Cherubina. I’d love to wear a veil with these but don’t know where to start!
https://www.matchesfashion.com/products/Emilia-Wickstead-Freya-square-neck-cloqu%C3%A9-midi-dress-1338099
https://cherubina.com/en/bridal-headpiece/1482-22487-diana#/272-shipping-standard_shipping_1_3_weeks
Thanks! Sophie
Oh wow. I love the look you’re going for!
If you wanted something the same length as your dress you could go for waltz length?
Or you could go much shorter and try to tie in with the high waistline detail and try elbow length? Something like Priscilla I could see working quite well. https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/plain-veils/priscilla-1960s-inspired-short-bouffant-wedding-veil-with-a-cut-edge/
Hello! Thanks for this guide – very helpful to give me an idea of different veils available. I will be wearing the Morilee Shiloh style 6927 dress in prosecco. Could you suggest a veil length and style? As for color, I think my gown is closer to dark ivory.
Hi Erica!
Well, you definitely couldn’t go wrong with something long and floaty like our Brooke veil. It has a very simple edge finish and a nice wide floor spread to surround your train. https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/plain-veils/brooke-simple-one-layer-chapel-length-veil-with-a-pencil-edge/
Lynsey
Hi there, thanks for such an informative post. I’m tying myself in knots trying to think of what style of veil to go for – your selection is just STUNNING – so I am hoping you can offer some advice. I am wearing ‘Sapphire’ by Suzanne Neville and I got the train customised to add on an extra 1/2 metre in length! I was thinking I would go for a 2 tier fingertip length veil with some volume and scatter crystals but now I’m wondering whether that will look silly due to the long train…should I go for a longer length? Any advice would be so much appreciated! Thank you! x
Hi Chantelle!
I’m wondering what the rest of your wedding vibe is like because I could see that dress easily lending itself to a more retro-cool look, but I have no idea if that’s actually your theme! I do think a short veil with volume could also be good for a retro look.
Since it’s harder here in the comments section to have a good back and forth feel free to email or DM me if that’s easier. 🙂
Lynsey
Hi,
I’m wondering if you could advise on colour and length for my veil,
I ordered the swatches from you and I’m drawn towards the Italian style tulle, but can’t really tell from the swatch if the shade will work with my dress, unlike most dresses my dress actually is white not ivory! its diamond white mikado satin,
Raven Effortlessly Classic Mikado A-Line Wedding Dress …https://www.maggiesottero.com › maggie-sottero › raven
Does the Italian style come in a white shade ? or am I best to go for the bridal illusion in white?
Also I’m not sure on which length to go for, my dress has a chapel train so not sure if a chapel veil would work or would the cathedral length be better?
Many thanks
Tabitha
Hi Tabitha!
Diamond White, if that’s the name of your dress colour, is actually an off-white shade. I know, it sounds like it’s saying it’s brilliant, luminous, blindingly “diamond” white, doesn’t it? But no. It means off white. In which case, the Italian tulle in Pale Ivory (which is very, very pale) should be fine for you. On the larger piece we’ve sent you, try twisting it to get a better sense of the colour against your dress.
For the length, chapel should work but there is certainly no rule that says you can’t have a veil longer than your dress. I personally like there to be a little extension beyond the end of the train, so cathedral length could be fabulous too 🙂
Lynsey
Hi Lynsey,
Thankyou for your help I have ordered my veil today in the pale ivory Italian style and I can’t wait for it to arrive, your veil guide is absolutely fantastic and so helpful!
Thanks Tabitha
Thanks Tabitha!! 🙂
Hello! This site is terrific and I have just poured through these helpful comments! I am at a loss when it comes to the veil, too… what would you recommend for the Jenny Yoo Dawson dress? (it has a VERY high neckline).. I am a rather small person, 5’4″ and plan to have my hair up (rather down, in a low bun). I was thinking of a blushier, or fingertip length – I thought 1 tier, then was thinking 2 so I could do the centered gathering, then my brain just collapsed with all the options. Any suggestions? Thanks!
Hahaha! Oh no, no brain collapses! lol That made me chuckle. 🙂
I love the halter/collar! Wearing your hair up is a great idea with such a high neckline; you really want to be able to see it fully without loads of hair in the way. This begs the question, do you then want your veil to come around your arms and shoulders? Because a two-layer veil will and a single layer veil won’t.
My first thought was something single-layered and simple like the Lauren or Faith veils. Or if you wanted to add a pop of sparkle, the rhinestone edged Sophia veil.
Lynsey
Hi Lynsey! Would love to get your opinion on a veil for Mikaella 2328 in the Natural color (which seemed a lot whiter in person than in the picture, so would very much appreciate your thoughts on color). It also looks like a shorter chapel train in the picture, but seemed very long on me in person — I’m very short and only around 5’1, but plan to wear heels! I love the look of a long ungathered drop veil, but wondering if that will overwhelm me? My mom’s also pushing me to get a lace veil since the dress is so plain, but I’m not sure. Probably will wear my hair half up/half down. Thank you so much!
Hi Leslie!
I’ve just looked up the dress. Very nice! 🙂
It looks a lot paler in the video that the images doesn’t it? I guess they must have used quite a warm edit for the photos and it’s throwing the colour off. From the vid, I think the dress looks like a good match for the Light Ivory Illusion tulle (but I would DEFINITELY recommend getting samples to confirm).
Lengthwise it’s hard because it’s hanging down but I think you might possibly need cathedral length. You could always try the chapel length drop veil Caitlyn and return it if it’s too short then order a custom veil?
Lynsey
Hi,
I am looking for a veil for my Enzoani Lesley wedding dress. I have opted for Ivory/Ivory rather than Ivory/Sand as detailed on their website. From googling and looking on social media a lot of brides opt out of a veil for this dress so I am struggling to pick one. Can you suggest what would complement the dress please? I know that I want a long veil, and single tier. Also the straps on the dress are diamante.
Any help would be appreciated.
Thank you
Natalie
Oh it’s lovely Natalie!
Love all those leaves. 🙂
I think a single layer veil like our Brooke in chapel length or our Jessica in cathedral length would be perfect! I wanted to try and give you some kind of idea with a picture for inspiration. This is one that came to mind that we posted on our Instagram a while back: https://www.instagram.com/p/CKyflftoJJh/
Not the same dress, obviously, but similar in the amount of lace, the straps etc and shown with a single layer long veil. 🙂
Here are those two veils.
https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/plain-veils/brooke-simple-one-layer-chapel-length-veil-with-a-pencil-edge/
https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/plain-veils/jessica-one-layer-cathedral-length-extra-wide-veil-with-a-simple-edge/
Lynsey
Hiya! There’s a lot of great info on here, thanks! I’m wearing the Essense of Australia D2308 dress and thinking of going with a fingertip length veil… my main confusion comes from whether I should have something to wear in my hair so if I choose to take the veil off later, I’ve got something pretty in my hair (like a comb or vine) I wasn’t sure if the two go together, veil AND hair accessory…
Hi Sarah, your dress is gorgeous! You can definitely wear a headpiece and a veil. This is a very popular option as you still have something when you remove your veil. From looking at your dress, I would recommend a hair vine. You can have a look at the different options here
https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/bridal-accessories/headpieces/bridal-vines-halos/
Your veil will sit at the back of your head and the beauty of hair vines is that there isn’t a set place you have to wear them so they will fit in with any hairstyle.
Hope this helps.
Sam
Bridal Consultant
Hi,
Amazing website! I’ve just followed you on Instagram also
The possibilities are endless! I was going to borrow my sisters 2 layer fingertip veil from her wedding 10 years ago but I think I’d rather get something that is more me and more suited to my dress.
I’m wearing Rio by Morilee 6916. I def want a single layer and I’m thinking a longer one for added drama. But then again I’m not sure! I do like the idea of some sort of beading but if you can see from the bodice that is already on there I’m unsure what to go with!
Any ideas would be greatly appreciated
If there is nothing that you have then I would be willing to go down the custom route to get the best one to suit
Thank you so much
Hi Joanne! First of all your dress is stunning!! To get the perfect veil for you we would suggest a custom design. By looking at your dress’ beading I would add clear crystals to the veil as they will complement the little seed beads on your bodice. For added drama, I’d go for chapel length which would frame your train beautifully.
Have a look at our Serena veil here
https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/beaded-veils/serena-two-layer-cathedral-length-veil-with-crystals-falling-stars/
The Serena veil is longer than the chapel but it is a really good example of our crystal beading.
Hope this helps 🙂
Sam
Bridal Consultant
Hi, so much great information, who knew so many options I’m still in such a tizz, I’m struggling more with the veil than I did with the dress! Who would have thought. I have a Millie may M112 dress here (https://milliemaybridal.co.uk/product/mm112-4/) but have got it in ivory even though tried it on in this champagne colour, not seeing myself in the actual dress in ivory til 4 weeks before the wedding 😬 Not sure what length as don’t want to detract from seeing the applique detail on the skirt so thinking fingertip or floor length or would it be best for veil to stop where lace detail on the bodice thins out? Thinking cut edge so matches skirt hem with scattered pearls and have no clue for no of layers. What could you advise? Picked a dress completely different to what I thought now such a dilemma
Hi Sam!
What a stunning dress!! So sorry to completely throw you even more but I would pair your dress with a Chapel length veil which would perfectly frame the train of your dress. I would have this in our Italian Style, pale ivory tulle. This is our most sheer fabric so your scattered pearls would almost look as though they are floating 🙂 In regards to layers, that is a personal choice as to how much fabric you would like up top. I would recommend going for the simple one layer so as not to distract from your beautiful bodice!! Hope this helps 🙂
Sam Pickford
Bridal Consultant
Hi Lynsey and Sam,
Oh my goodness! This site is amazing and has been incredibly helpful! I am struggling with my veil choice and the information you provided is so good! Like others, I would appreciate any recommendations/thoughts on the veil that would pair best with my dress (Raphael by Maggie Sottero, all ivory): https://www.maggiesottero.com/maggie-sottero/raphael/16518. I am a plus size bride, so I do not want to add more width than I already have. I am planning to wear my hair half up/half down. I am going for a very classic, elegant, princess type of vibe. The dress has beautiful beading that I was considering matching on the edge of the veil. I have also considered a lace-trimmed veil. The dress has sparkle tulle (which I LOVE) but I don’t want it to be overkill by incorporating that in the veil. My biggest struggle right now is a long vs. waist-length veil. I don’t want to take away from the beauty and details of the dress, but I very much want to complement my look (especially around my face though I will not be wearing the veil over my face at any time). Does having sleeves make a difference on which length to choose? I feel like I am all over the place! Help!
Thank you in advance for any help/advice!
Aww, fab! You could go with waist-length if you like but I feel a longer veil keeping it slim down the back and keeping it out of the way of your sleeves so it is not too busy! As said before, I would have the Italian style tulle in pale ivory which is our most sheer fabric so your detail on your dress will be completely seen through the veil. this would also give an illusion of your beading “floating”. From the pictures, I can’t tell if you would need Chaple or Chaedral length but we could do a medium or even slim width depending on how you feel. Have a look at my favourite veil the Phoenix as an example and let me know what you think 🙂
https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/beaded-veils/phoenix-one-layer-cathedral-length-veil-with-diamantes-falling-stars/
Sam
Hi Team, this is such an informative and helpful site….i am however slightly mind blown by all the different options and wondered whether you might be able to help me out. I am getting married in the Jenny Packham ‘Alba’ dress and think I would like a long veil, the dress itself has a lot of beading on it so I was hoping you might be able to steer me in an appropriate direction in terms of veil that would work.
Thanks so much.
Sarah
Hi Sarah. I love your dress, especially the little embellished cap sleeves! I would probably go with our Italian tulle as the holes in the fabric are the smallest so less likely to snag on your gorgeous beading. Have a look at my favourite veil the Pheonix https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/beaded-veils/phoenix-one-layer-cathedral-length-veil-with-diamantes-falling-stars/ This is our longest and widest veil, in the Italian style pale ivory. It is our softest and most sheer veil that has mirror backed diamantes in our falling star design (less at they top, building up to more at the bottom) which would fall past the end of your dress’s train! Let me know what you think.
Sam Pickford
Bridal Consultant
Hi, this has been a great help to me, very informative, I am getting married in a maggie sottero dress, Pernille https://www.maggiesottero.com/maggie-sottero/pernille/15782, I am wondering what veil you would recomend for this dress.
Thanks so much
Cora
Hi Cora. I am not too sure of the colour but you can order samples here https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/?s=SAMPLES&post_type=product
I love your dress, it is stunning! have a look at our Fearne and Summer veils here https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/?s=horsehair&post_type=product Both of these veils have a horsehair trim which would match the trim of your dress. from the picture i would recommend a cathedral length that would perfectly frame your train. We can make a custom veil to incorporate all of this if it was what you liked 🙂 Hope this helps.
Sam
Bridal Consultant
Thank you, it has helped!!!
This has helped me tremendously!! I am wearing the allure wilderly august dress (minus the sleeves). I would like a blusher veil. Do you have any suggestions that would match with the unique lace of this dress? Thank you so much!
Hi Kristen, is it possible for you to send me a picture of the dress, and a close up of the lace at all please?
Sam pickford
Bridal Consultant
Hi,
Thank you for this helpful guide! I wonder if you could recommend a veil for my dress please. I am wearing Grady by Maggie Sottero. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance.
Lilly
Hi Lilly, I love your dress!! I would go with something plain and chapel length. you have so much detail on your dress you don’t want your veil to take away from this. I would also suggest you go for our Italian Style, Pale Ivory. This tulle is out most sheer fabric but also the most dense. It has the smallest holes in the tulles so is less likely to catch on your beading at the top of your dress. You will also be able to see the overall dress detail through the veil.
Hope this helps.
Sam x
Hi. This guide is very helpful, but I am really torn between two options and I am not sure which way to go. My dress is Casablanca Evelina dress: https://www.casablancabridal.com/collections/gowns/style-2406-evelina/. I have the color shown in the picture (a blush/ivory combo). I am torn between getting something with a bit of lace at the bottom to frame the dress or keeping a simple plain veil so that the dress stands out. I would love to hear your recommendations – I am planning on wearing a two-layer chapel length veil.
Thanks!
Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth, wow! Your dress is gorgeous! I would be tempted to go for a simpler veil so not to distract too much from the beautiful detailing of your dress. Have a look at our Siobhan veil, two layer, chapel length, hand stiched pencil edge and our falling stars design created with subtle diamantes. this design would give a smaller amount of beading to the top, falling down to full beading at the bottom which would frame your dress. This option gives you some detailing without distracting from your dress 🙂
Hope this helps.
Sam x
Hi, thank you so much for this guide! It’s been so useful to help picture different styles! We are having a traditional church wedding then country house reception – I’ve got my dress – a classic satin ballgown (https://www.davidsbridal.com/Product_off-the-shoulder-satin-ball-gown-wedding-dress-wg3979_all-wedding-dresses) but with more traditional straps. I was thinking a pearl veil with a blusher and then can’t decide on the gathering (I like drop veils but not sure how that would work with the pearls..) and whether to have a satin trim. In terms of length I’m thinking LONG but not sure how long further than my train….. I would love to get your thoughts and recommendations!
Thanks in advance!
Alex
Oooh love the dress! So classic. Satin edging could tie in really well. Or you could absolutely have a drop veil with a strung pearl edge. Maybe samples would help? If you order one of our tulle sample packs here: https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/product-tag/samples/ just pop a note in the comments requesting some bias biding and some pearl trim and we’ll include them. 🙂
Hi, I’ve read your guide, which is very helpful! However, I am still undecided on what type of veil to go for. My dress is Val by Hayley Paige in ivory https://weddingstylecollective.co.uk/1703-val . I am thinking about a long veil, but not sure whether floor or chapel length would be better. I would also like the veil to be quite sheer. Also not sure whther I should go for something simple, like the satin edge one or with lace. I like the idea also to wear rustic looking flowers on my hair (we are getting married outside in Tuscany), but not sure if these will look good with a veil. Please, help!
Thank you,
Tuuli
Hi!
I think either plain or lace would work best for a rustic theme. As you’ve already got satin binding on your dress (which is a lovely detail, by the way) I would not want to detract from that but having it on the veil too. Too many satin lines, potentially.
For the length, it looks like it only has a small puddle train so floor length would work or chapel length could be used to add length. 🙂
Hello. I need help. I tried on a fingertip rhinestone edge veil but not so sure now. I will be wearing Enozani Pippa dress in Ivory. Was also thinking of doing a side rhinestone comb but not sure if that goes with a veil. what veil would you suggest. Any suggestions would help. Thank you so much
Hi,
Yes, you can definitely wear a side comb with a veil.
I could see a rhinestone edge veil working well with your chosen dress. Maybe about fingertip length?
Hi. Please could you advise which style or veil would you recommend for the Morilee sally wedding dress but adding a lace cap sleeve for somebody slightly short about 5′ 3”. Looking for a two tier but not sure about length and whether sequins or pearls or both . thanks
Hi
I’m also 5’3″ so I’m right there with you, lol. I always think a long veil is safer for shorter brides as with a short to mid-length veil, you risk the end of the veil hitting you at an awkward spot that makes you look even shorter. A long veil, on the other hand, flows right down and even beyond the train adding to the illusion of length/height.
For a two-tier plain veil in chapel length see Paige: https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/plain-veils/paige-two-layer-chapel-length-veil-with-a-simple-pencil-edge/
Or for the same size but with pearls and diamantes, see Siobhan: https://theweddingveilshop.co.uk/shop/veils/beaded-veils/siobhan-two-tier-chapel-length-veil-with-pearls-and-diamantes-falling-stars/
Hello,
Thank you so much for this amazing guide!!! It’s helped massively for me! I’m very petite at 5ft nothing! And I have a few questions I wondered if you could help with? Firstly I read on a previous comment about how a long chapel length helps to elongate a petite frame. Would a waterfall/angel cut chapel veil still have the same effect or would it make me look shorter? Also does the chapel length come in a standard length as it will obviously be a lot longer on me than somebody say 5ft 6 inch? And finally (sorry for all the questions!) I have chosen the Goldie dress by Jane Hill in Ivory. It has a very delicate lace with sequins. Am I best to go for a plain veil or sparkly veil to bring out the sparkle in my dress? Hugs Laura
Hi
Thanks for your comment! Sorry, it took a while to spot the notification!
Yes, it would still work with a waterfall cut veil. Chapel length is 96″ from top to bottom so compared to someone 5’6″ you could say it will look 3 inches longer, but then it also depends on how high in your hair you wear it. You can raise or lower the veil 3 inches, possibly more, depending on whether you wear it on the top of your head right behind your tiara, or at the back just above a low bun. It’s all quite fluid and that’s why the veil is usually 10-12 inches longer than the dress to allow for all these possibilities.
Lynsey
Hi there!
This guide is so informative! Thank you for taking the time to create it and being so responsive! I was against wearing a veil at first, but after many, many days of looking through your veils, I’ve decided that I love the look of the Diana drape veil, I’m just not sure if it will go with my dress, nor do I know what length the veil should be. I will be wearing Annika Morilee #5872. I plan to wear my hair in a low bun with a half halo hair piece. Any advice/insight would be greatly appreciated!
Oh you’re very welcome! Thank you for your kind words. 🙂
I love the idea of the Diana veil with your dress. With a low bun, it should be long enough for your train as-is, but I would recommend ordering it the set style in chapel length first either way, even if when you try it you find you need it longer, at least it’s returnable then and you can just request a custom cathedral version to be made. 🙂
Very helpful post. Thanks for sharing.
You are very welcome! 🙂