A Complete Guide To Bridal Veils: Types And Styles

Bridal veils have a rich history that dates back centuries. In ancient Rome, veils were believed to protect the bride from evil spirits, while in medieval times, they symbolised purity and modesty. Today, wedding veils are an iconic bridal ensemble, offering a beautiful finishing touch and a sense of timeless elegance.

Based on a recent report, the global bridal veil industry is anticipated to grow by millions of dollars by 2030. This high demand is due to the increasing number of couples getting married. Experts predicted around 2.2 million weddings in 2023 and 2024. That’s a lot of brides looking for the perfect veil!

If you’re one of them, this comprehensive guide will explore the different types of wedding veils and help you determine which design will best suit your overall look.

Exploring different types of bridal veils

Months or weeks before your big day, you must embark on a journey to curate your bridal ensemble. The wedding veil is among the essential elements to prioritise. With so many styles, the decision-making process can be overwhelming. But don’t let this dampen your excitement! You can find a wide selection of wedding veils in Sydney and online. There are even hand-crafted bridal veils that can be custom-made to suit your preferences. So, you can rest assured that there’s something for everyone.

Here are some popular bridal veil styles to consider:

1. Birdcage veil

The birdcage veil, which originated in the 1940s and 1950s, gained momentum during the golden age of Hollywood glamour. The fashion-forward brides and iconic actresses often wore it as a statement piece.

As the name suggests, this veil resembles a birdcage with its chin-length design and delicate netting. It’s often composed of an eyelash lace veil and a small headpiece. Today, the birdcage veil remains a beloved choice for brides seeking a vintage-inspired and effortlessly chic bridal look.

2. Cathedral veil

Many celebrities have opted for a cathedral veil for their wedding day. Priyanka Chopra,Paris Hilton,and Meghan Markleare among those who chose this timeless style. 

A cathedral veil is a long dramatic wedding veil that typically measures 108 inches or longer. It’s named after the grand, soaring architecture of cathedrals, reflected in its sweeping, regal design. This type of bridal veil is often made from fine tulle or lace fabric and can be embellished with embroidery, beading, or other decorative elements.

Cathedral veils’ flowing silhouettes and delicate detailing evoke a sense of timeless elegance and grandiosity. This makes them ideal for formal weddings, particularly those held in churches or other grand venues. Wearing a cathedral veil will definitely make you feel like a modern-day princess!

ODETTE I - One Tier Pearl Edge Veil

3. Blusher veil

Unlike a cathedral veil, a blusher veil has a shorter, single-layered style that covers the bride’s face. It usually measures around 30 inches long and is attached to a headpiece or tiara. Some blusher veil styles fall just above the eyes or below the chin.

Traditionally, the blusher veil is lifted by the father or groom during the ceremony, symbolising the bride’s transition from singlehood to marriage. This design adds an element of mystery and anticipation to the wedding procession. While white or ivory is a common choice, blush or other soft pastel colours have become popular recently. These hues can complement various skin tones while adding a subtle elegance to the bridal ensemble.

4. Chapel veil

In recent years, interest in the chapel veil has been resurging among Catholic women. They see it as a way to reclaim a sense of tradition and connect with the rich heritage of their faith. It’s not uncommon to see women wearing chapel veils at special religious occasions, such as baptisms, First Communion ceremonies, and, more importantly, weddings.

A chapel veil, also known as a mantilla or Spanish lace veil, is an oval-shaped veil that comes in various lengths, depending on personal preference. It’s worn over the head and falls gracefully to cover the shoulders and sometimes the back. The intricate lace detailing and delicate scalloped edges make it a beautiful choice for brides seeking a simple yet regal feel.

MARGOT II - Two Tier Pearl Beaded Edge Veil

4. Flyaway veil

A flyaway veil is a modern romantic bridal accessory that adds a touch of whimsy and elegance to your wedding attire. It’s composed of two or three short layers measuring 16 to 22 inches long, just enough to flutter and flaunt your bridal style. With its lightweight and sheer fabric, a flyaway veil adds a touch of enchantment and femininity, creating a stunning visual effect as you walk down the aisle. 

5. Fingertip veil

Versatility, convenience, and sophistication – these are the three attributes of a fingertip veil. This bridal veil measures around 38 to 40 inches and falls midway between the waist and knees. It’s one of the most popular veil lengths among brides, owing to its graceful drape and flirtatious effect.

You can adorn the bottom edge with beading, pearls, or lace for a customised appearance. The best thing about a fingertip veil is that it suits both formal and informal weddings. It can also be paired with different hairstyles, from updos to loose curls, without being too overbearing.

6. Juliet cap veil

You might be wondering why it’s called the Juliet cap veil. The veil takes its name from Juliet, the beloved heroine of Shakespeare’s tragic playRomeo and Juliet. In the story, Juliet wears a pearl headpiece that symbolises her innocence and purity.

In modern versions, the Juliet cap veil features a close-fitting headdress that covers the crown of the head and is adorned with intricate lace, embroidery, and beading. The veil cascades gently from the cap, often reaching the shoulders or beyond. This unique design is perfect for brides who want to make a bold and stylish statement.

How to select the right veil for your big day

Now that you’ve learned about the various styles of bridal veils, it’s time to choose the best one for your special day. Here are tips to keep in mind:

• Think of your wedding dress:First and foremost, consider the style of your wedding dress. Is it bohemian, modern, classic, or vintage? How about the silhouette? Is it A-line, ballgown, trumpet, or mermaid? Some veils suit certain silhouettes better. For example, a mermaid silhouette style pairs well with a birdcage veil or a fingertip-length style. Meanwhile, a chapel veil or cathedral veil will be perfect if you’re wearing a classic A-line gown. The key is to choose a veil that complements the neckline and won’t over-compete with your wedding dress design. 
• Choose the right material:Tulle, cotton, satin, and lace are the most common fabrics for wedding veils. Each of these materials has a distinct quality, texture, and level of transparency. It’s essential to consider the material you prefer when choosing a veil for your big day. It should also be in harmony with the fabric of your dress. A veil made of satin would be ideal for a gown with the same material. You can also combine different textiles for a unique pattern and custom feel. Just ensure that they won’t clash with each other. 
• Don’t forget your hairstyle: Different hairstyles have varying structures, heights, and textures, affecting how the veil is secured and displayed. For example, an updo provides a secure base for attaching a veil comb or pins, allowing the veil to be beautifully positioned on top or at the back of the hairstyle. On the other hand, loose, flowing hairstyles may require a different approach, such as attaching the veil with discreetly placed pins or securing it with a headband or halo. You want the veil to be flattering and stay in place throughout your special day. 

• Consider your desired look: Your veil should also reflect who you are as a bride. Do you prefer a romantic and dreamy feel? Or do you want something contemporary and edgy? Consider your personality, taste, and the overall environment of your ceremony when making a decision. Remember, the bridal veil is essential to your wedding day ensemble. It’ll set the tone of your entire look and add an extra layer of sophistication to your bridal style. Whether a classic veil or a stylish headpiece, choose the one that best captures your beauty and personality. 
• Try it on:Visit bridal salons or boutiques to try on different veil styles if possible. This will allow you to see how each veil blends with your gown and overall appearance. Experiment with different lengths, layers, and designs to find the one that makes you feel most beautiful and confident.

The right bridal veil will make all the difference in your special day attire. It’s essential to weigh your options and consider different elements before committing to a particular style.

Celebrate your big day with the perfect bridal veil

Your wedding day marks a significant milestone, an unforgettable moment in your journey through life. You want to look and feel your best when you walk down the aisle, and a perfect bridal veil and your dream gown can help you make that happen.

Let your wedding veil bring out the beauty and elegance within you. Wear it with love and pride as you step into the next chapter of your life.