To veil or not to veil - that is the question. Veils can signify so much to a bride and can also be a great accessory to compliment your bridal hair-do. A veil is one of the most iconic bridal accessories, from the birdcage to the grande cathedral veil, we’re sure there is a veil style for every bride.
Photography by Irenak Photography
Dress by The Bridal Edit
Accessories by Britten Weddings
Don’t write off your veil potential just yet, as we’ve put together the ultimate guide to compliment your vibe. You can also take a look at some of our beautiful brides on our inspiration board, see if any of our real weddings and brides can inspire your look for your big day too.
Photography by Irenak Photography
Dress by The Bridal Edit
Accessories by Britten Weddings
Although a veil might not be your first thought (don’t worry, it normally isn’t!) speak to your professional hair stylist to see if they can incorporate a veil into your look, it’s always worth a try!
It’s important to keep in mind the style of your dress and if you have a veil in mind or have already brought it, take it along to your hair trials to ensure you are happy with the fitting.
Choosing the right veil is the finishing touch to your bridal transformation. Browse through our veil guide to see which wedding veil style might suit you.
Bandeau Veils
These are the short in length similar to a birdcage veil but attached to the side of the head and are usually worn just so they cover your eyes or extending down to the chin. They give a lovely vintage feel to your bridal look.
Top Tip: Keep it short...add a vintage wave or finger curls. If you have longer hair try a side bun.
Shoulder-length veils
The clue is in the name and can end anywhere from your shoulders to the middle of the back. This veil is popular as a two tiered option and can be considered modern look for a fashion-forward bride.
Top Tip: Keep it high...a glamorous high bun with plenty of volume will compliment this veil.
Fingertip length veils
If you’re after a touch of royalty than the unforgettable Kate Middleton style veil is the one for you. The fingertip veils are around 40” long and designed to fall lightly at your fingertips. Choose a lace trim detail for a romantic edge.
Photography by Melanie East
Hair by Mode Bridal
Photography by Katie Ingram
Top Tip: Anything goes...this is a popular veil length that pairs beautifully with all bridal hairstyles but we particularly like it with a softly styled updo.
Ballet length veil
The great thing about the ballet length veil, also be known as the waltz veil, is that you can dance the night away in it as it falls just between your knees and ankles.
Top Tip: Keep your vibe ultra modern with a sleek chic bun or go pretty and romantic by wearing your hair all down with a soft wave.
Chapel length veil
Here comes the big ones. The romantic chapel length veil drapes all the way to the ground but does not include a train.
Photography by Eloise Nurse
Veil by Eden B. Studio
Photography by Tom and Lizzie Redman
Top Tip: A half up hairstyle is perfectly complimented with a chapel length veil.
Cathedral length veil
The grandest of them all. The cathedral length veil is without a doubt the most beautiful veil to photograph and the magnificent to wear - you are sure to be feeling like royalty! Just make sure you have your bridesmaids close by for perfect touch-ups and pick-ups throughout your day.
Photography by Katie Ingram
Dress and Veil by Tilly Trotters
Photography by Helen Sarah Pictures
Top Tip: Anything goes but we love it when this veil is worn with a wild and wonderful flower crown.
Your wedding dress
As a general rule of thumb, your veil should accentuate and complement your wedding dress without taking away any details from your dress. There are plenty of styles and materials to also choose from and if you choose to wear a veil, it must be in keeping with the formality and style of your dress and venue. For weddings set in churches, it may be customary for the bride to wear a long veil that covers her shoulders whereas a beach setting or garden venue you may want a less formal and shorter veil. It is worth remembering that veils can also make excellent props for your wedding photos.
Hair by Mode Bridal
Photography by Katie Ingram
Photography by PJ Photography
If you have any questions about your bridal hairstyle and wedding veils, why not get in touch with one of our professional bridal hair stylists here.
