The Bridal Veil Guide: How to choose the perfect veil to enhance your bridal look

Wedding veils are so much more than just a bridal accessory - they are the finishing touches that frame your bridal look, evoke timeless romance, and often brings tears to the eyes of those who see you walk down the aisle. Whether you’re after a whisper of tulle or a dramatic sweep, the right veil adds an element of drama and serves to enhance your unique bridal style. 

Bridal veils are steeped in wedding tradition, historically worn to symbolize modesty and purity. On a more personal note, they offer a sweet moment between the bride and her father (or the person walking her down the aisle), who would lift the veil at the end, as they handed her over to her new partner. But with many of the older wedding traditions changing, we saw brides ditching the veil-lifting moment and opting for a floral crown or hair accessory instead. After a long spell of veil-free aisles, we are very happy to report that veils are making a sweeping comeback, and this time around, they are revered for the playful and poetic element they add to your bridal look. They come in many shapes and lengths, and the fabrics and detail they are adorned with are a far cry from the once-traditional plain mesh tulle – let's get into veils! 

BRIDAL FASCINATORS & SHORT VEILS

Short Veil Lengths: (51-56cm) 

Shorter veils have made a comeback, and they are more fun and flirtier than ever! Even though they rose to popularity in the 70's to 80's, these vintage-inspired veils now grace the crowns of our more modern brides, as well as the bride opting for a smaller wedding or civil ceremony. Plain or adorned with a big bow, they add plenty of volume and personality to your bridal look.  

Bridal fascinators are another archival bridal accessory that had its heyday in the 80's, however they are back in an array of designs and details to add a touch of glamour to your bridal look. Opt for fascinators and bird cages that are adorned with hand-beaded pearls or 3D floral details to frame the face.  

Perfect for: City weddings, courthouse ceremonies, or vintage-inspired looks. 

FINGERTIP-LENGTH VEILS

Measurements: (96-102cm) 

Fingertip veils are one of the most popular choices for modern brides. Falling just past the hips, this style beautifully complements both fitted and flowing gowns without the cumbersome back length that can feel daunting for some brides. It moves with grace and adds subtle drama without overshadowing your wedding day look. 

Perfect for: Garden weddings, beach ceremonies, or classic silhouettes. 

CHAPEL-LENGTH VEILS

Measurements: (229cm) 

If you’re drawn to a more traditional bridal look, the chapel-length veil or floor-length veil is the bridal accessory you are after. These whimsical veils extend to the floor and pair beautifully with gowns that have a modest and manageable train. With this being one of our most popular veil lengths, we offer our chapel-length veils in an array of tulle options ranging from plain to diamond tulle, some featuring hand-beaded details and 3D floral appliqué for a dramatic touch.  

Perfect for: Church weddings and romantic venues. 

CATHEDRAL-LENGTH VEILS

Measurements: (275-305cm) 

Enter the statement maker! Flowing far beyond your gown’s hem, cathedral-length veils create unforgettable drama that will transform your wedding photos and aisle moments. The idea is that this veil should extend to your gown's train or just that little bit over, making a sweeping statement as you walk down the aisle. 

Perfect for: Grand ceremonies, traditional vows, and photo moments that belong in magazines.

MANTILLA VEILS

Mantilla veils have made a stunning comeback in recent years. Worn draped over the head with a comb securing the often laced border, to the crown of your head, they’re ideal for brides seeking a balance between drama and old-world charm. 

Perfect for: Bohemian ceremonies, destination weddings, or gowns with clean lines

 

HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT VEIL FOR YOUR BRIDAL STYLE

  • Consider your gown: Is it simple or detailed? Let the veil balance the look. 

  • Think about your venue: A beach might call for something light and floaty, while a cathedral suits length and volume. 

  • Picture the moment: How do you want to feel as you walk down the aisle? Soft and subtle, or powerful and sweeping?

WHAT ABOUT A BLUSHER?

Some veils come with them, some without. The blusher refers to area of fabric that drapes over the face. The blusher adds a touch of tradition and drama to your bridal look however, not all veils have them. Recently, we’ve seen a demand for veils without blushers as older bridal traditions have fallen out of favor, while brides still crave the ethereal element that a veil can add to their wedding day look. Many of our veils come as single-layer pieces that fall to the back only however, we do offer some of our veil options with or without the addition of a blusher.   

Explore your bridal veil options in our Veil Section, at our London Boutique (by Appointment), or book an online virtual consultation with one of our lovely stylists to discuss your vision and the veil that will bring it to life.  

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