Wedding Veil Length Guide: How to Choose the Right Veil Length
Choosing your wedding veil is about more than simply selecting a length. The right veil should complement your dress, suit your personal style and complete your overall bridal look.
One of the questions we're asked most often is, "What is the right veil length for my dress?" The answer is simple, there isn't one.
While certain veil lengths naturally suit different gown silhouettes and train lengths, there are no strict rules. If you're wearing a mini wedding dress and love the look of a cathedral veil, go for it. If you have a dramatic ball gown and prefer a short veil, that's equally beautiful.
This guide will help you understand the different veil lengths, how they work with various dress styles and what to consider before making your decision.
Short Wedding Veils
Shoulder Length (Flyaway Veils)
Shoulder length veils, sometimes called flyaway veils, are a fun and modern option for brides looking for something shorter than the traditional fingertip veil.
They pair beautifully with mini wedding dresses, reception dresses or brides who simply prefer a lighter, less traditional look.
As these are custom made, please contact us before placing your order to discuss your preferred length and style.
Elbow, Waist & Hip Length Veils
These shorter veil lengths are perfect for brides who want a little softness without covering too much of their dress.
They work particularly well with traditional A-line and ball gown wedding dresses because the shorter length naturally draws attention to the waist before the skirt opens into its full shape.
If your gown already has layers of tulle or a full skirt, a waist or hip length veil can add balance without introducing even more volume.
Fingertip Veils (45")
Fingertip veils are one of the most versatile shorter veil lengths.
They work particularly well with fitted gowns, crepe dresses, satin gowns and modern slip dresses, while also complementing many A-line wedding dresses.
If you're looking for something light, simple and easy to wear throughout the day, a fingertip veil is an excellent choice.
Waltz Veils (60")
A waltz veil falls around the knees or just below, making it a beautiful option for fitted wedding dresses and slim silhouettes.
Because it finishes around knee level, it generally suits form-fitting gowns better than full skirts. On a slim dress, the veil follows the shape of the gown without interrupting the overall silhouette.
It is also a practical choice for brides who want a longer veil without it reaching the floor.
Floor Length Veils (75")
As the name suggests, a floor length veil falls to the floor without extending into a train.
It works beautifully with fitted dresses, modern slip gowns and A-line dresses that have little or no train.
For brides who want a longer veil without the extra length of a chapel or cathedral veil, floor length offers a lovely balance.
Chapel Veils (90")
Chapel veils are one of the most versatile veil lengths and suit almost every wedding dress silhouette.
They pair particularly well with gowns featuring a short train, allowing the veil to extend slightly beyond the dress for a balanced and elegant finish.
If you're unsure which length to choose, a chapel veil is often a safe and popular option.
Cathedral Veils (120")
Cathedral veils are the most popular choice for brides wanting a longer, more dramatic look.
They complement virtually every wedding dress silhouette, from fitted crepe gowns to full ball gowns.
As a general guide, we recommend choosing a veil that extends beyond your dress train. This allows the veil to frame your gown beautifully and creates a more balanced look from behind.
Despite their length, cathedral veils are surprisingly lightweight and many brides are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable they feel once worn.
Regal & Royal Veils
For gowns with extra-long trains, we also offer Regal (3.5 metre) and Royal (4 metre) veils.
These longer lengths are designed for brides who want their veil to extend well beyond the train of their dress.
As our veils become longer, they are also made proportionally wider to ensure the overall look remains balanced.
We also offer custom lengths if you're looking for something shorter, longer or somewhere in between.
How to Choose the Right Veil Length
When choosing your veil, consider:
- The silhouette of your wedding dress.
- The length of your train.
- Whether you want your veil to extend beyond the train.
- The overall look you're hoping to achieve.
- Most importantly, choose the length that makes you feel comfortable and confident.
There is no right or wrong choice. Your veil should feel like the finishing touch to your bridal look, whether that's a simple fingertip veil or a dramatic cathedral veil.
Does Your Height Matter?
Not usually.
Wedding veil lengths are measured from the comb, so they work well for most brides regardless of height.
If you're particularly petite or tall, or simply have a specific look in mind, we're happy to create a custom length to suit your preference.
Can I Customise My Veil Length?
Yes.
All of our veils are handmade to order, and many designs can be customised in length.
Whether you're looking for a shorter flyaway veil, a longer cathedral veil or something completely in between, please contact us before placing your order. We'll confirm whether your chosen design can be customised and provide a quotation where applicable.
Still Unsure?
If you're unsure which veil length is right for your wedding dress, we're always happy to help.
Simply send us a photo of your gown, let us know your wedding dress designer (if known), and tell us which veil styles you like. We'll happily recommend a length that complements your dress and the overall look you're hoping to achieve.