Veil Showdown: One-Tier vs. Mantilla — Which One Complements Your Dress Best?

With so many styles to choose from, picking the right wedding veil is easier said than done. It isn’t good for a bride to have second thoughts long after she’s already bought her veil, let alone at wedding day. But it’s understandable for a bride to struggle with thinking about what she wants for her ensemble.

As such, allow us to narrow down your choices to two of the most popular wedding veil styles: a one-tier veil and a mantilla veil. You may just stumble upon something that matches your dress to a T and, more importantly, brings out the best in you. If this comparison ends up helping you choose other types of veils, that’s also good.

What’s a One-Tier Veil?

A one-tier veil (also called a single-tier veil) is as simple as the term implies, consisting of a single layer of tulle. This style of veil typically doesn’t come with a blusher or the part of the veil that covers the bride’s face until the lifting.

Wedding veils don’t come cheap, but that’s what makes a one-tier veil the more popular choice among brides. As it’s only made with a single piece of tulle and held in place by a hair comb, it’s safe to say that it’s the most affordable in the market. The price tag can be lowered further by opting for short veils and a design devoid of embroidery or ornaments.

The veil is available in a wide variety of lengths – both commercial and custom-made. Plain one-tier veils are ideal for lengths that reach the bottom part of the dress or the floor, as the lack of veil embellishments makes them easier to keep on. It also comes in a variety of edgings or trims, which allows a bit more aesthetics without adding too much weight.

Despite its practicality, a one-tier bridal veil is far from being traditional. If you’ve followed our posts detailing the history of wedding veils, you know that the idea of wearing one is to conceal the bride’s face from malicious forces. Some families still believe in the traditional purpose of the veil and prefer a veil with a blusher.

What’s a Mantilla Veil?

The  mantilla veil, also known as a Spanish veil, church veil, or simply mantilla, is a step above its one-tier counterpart in various aspects. It features more intricate scalloped lace embroidery mainly close to the edges, though lace appliques are also common.

The term “mantilla” is Spanish for the word “cape.” Long before veils became optional for church services, this traditional veil saw widespread use among women in predominantly Christian countries. Wearing one was mandated under the Bible (even while going about their lives) and anyone not complying risked excommunication by the Catholic Church.

This type of veil also comes in various standard and custom lengths. Unlike a one-tier veil, however, it can be made into a drop veil with a blusher. It’s the perfect choice for brides whose families are still rooted in the old ways or those who fancy an old-fashioned look. Also, a long history of use among females makes the veil bring out one’s femininity.

Naturally, ornate lace embroidery adds to the mantilla veil’s cost. Many veil makers elect to create one by hand to maintain its traditional look and feel, which also raises the price and extends the time to complete the order.

Designers and bridal fashion experts don’t advise this veil if the dress is already heavy on the ornamentation. The last thing a bride needs is the wedding gown and veil clashing for attention. A key rule in bridal fashion is that a veil with minimal embellishments best complements a dress that’s heavy on them and vice-versa.

The Veils Side By Side

If deciding between these types of wedding veils still feels like a chore, consulting a veil maker won’t hurt. If anything, getting them involved this early is a must to help them get an idea of what you like to see.