10 ways to wear a veil
Veils are making a comeback in a big way, with modern twists to match today's style.
“It's an amazing accessory to finish off a look,” says Daphne Newman, creative director of Daphne Newman Design. “Women feel like a bride when they put it on.”
Veils and headpieces come in a wide range of lengths, styles and even colors, so it's important to take some time to think of a headpiece to suit both your personality and attire. “A veil should compliment the dress. It shouldn't distract from the dress,” says Ana Cruz, president of Florida-based Ana Cruz Event Planning.
Here are 10 of today's best finishing touches for your bridal look:
Simply Stunning
“A simple one-layer tulle never goes out of style,” says Brittany Haas, founder of Happily Ever Borrowed in New York. Simple veils work best with dramatic dresses because they don't mask intricate designs on the back of the dress.
Single-layer veils are also a good option if you're showing a lot of skin, and the church or venue requires that your back be covered, says Dareth Colburn, founder and CEO of USABride.com.
Cathedral Knockout
Cathedral veils that are 108 to 137 inches long have made a big comeback recently. “Many brides that are going with the large ballroom dress choose a longer style cathedral length train to really tie in with the traditional church and that long walk down the aisle,” says Tracie Morris, certified wedding planner at Detroit-based You're the Bride.
A longer veil also extends the dress past the gown and pulls away so you can see the detail of the dress. “It just finishes it off. It doesn't compete with everything else,” says Newman.
Exaggerated Beauty
While a cathedral veil can be stunning, exaggerated veils, which are up to 165 inches, perfectly compliment the dress that has a longer train, says Alexis Ambrosino, assistant buyer of accessories at David's Bridal.
Framed by Lace
Mantilla-inspired veils provide a dramatic look by framing the face with lace. Although they're historically draped over your head, modern versions can attach with a comb.
Low Down Lovely
Whatever style of veil you choose, how you wear it is also important. “We are seeing more and more brides wearing the veil towards the lower half of the head, rather than the more traditional way of styling on top of the head,” says Ambrosino.
Touch of Color
Veils aren't just shades of white anymore. Some designers are using color in their veils, which is a great way to modernize a traditional accessory.
Metallic elements also keep headpieces on trend by adding a touch of elegant detail. Rose gold is a beautiful and trendy choice, while silver or gold are always in style.
Carefree Birdcage
If you're wearing a non-traditional dress, consider a non-traditional veil. Brides opting for shorter dresses, a vintage look or even jumpsuits look best with birdcage veils, which cover just part of the face. Today's versions attach to sleek headbands or combs for an updated look. They're also a good option for outdoor weddings because they don't get caught up in the wind, says Cruz.
Lace It Up
Designers are using lace in more modern ways by using an ombre effect on veils. You can also order additional lace from your dress designer to ensure they match. “It's a more finished look,” says Cruz.
Sparkling Sight
Non-veiled headpieces are still en vogue, with many styles to choose, from c-combs around buns to sparkly side combs. Jeweled hairpins are another great option because you can tuck one or several in your hair for a customized look.
Second Course
Whatever you choose, “make sure it's very comfortable,” says Colburn. When you're wearing it all day, make sure it's not too tight or heavy or will slip off when you move.
If that's the case, you may want to consider having a second headpiece for the reception. A simple flower, a sparkly headband or a side comb can maintain your bridal look without getting in your way on the dance floor.