What started centuries ago as a sort of shield to ward off evil spirits, the veil is a beautiful and classic way to complete a brides ensemble. Even after the wedding dress is on and fits perfectly, there’s just something that happens when the bride puts that comb into her hair. Even in fittings with my brides that are over a span of weeks, it isn’t until the delicate netting is draping over her shoulders that it becomes a reality. Then we all start to tear up! Yes… it still happens to me!
Whether subtle or bold, short or long – there is a method to choosing the best veil for your dress.
Short Length Veils: Birdcage/Blusher/Fly Away
Anything above the shoulder I consider a short length veil. These types of veils are pretty modern and need to be paired with a really simple dress. For the brunch wedding where the bride is dolled up in a vintage frock or a city roof-top wedding with a fabulous fitted cocktail dress, a veil that barely touches the shoulders is a really modern way to add some romance to the look!
PS – a “blusher” can be added to any length veil. Typically it’s just at your shoulders, but you can opt for a “blusher layer” that’s just a touch shorter than your veil too.
(etsy)
(etsy)
(etsy)
Mid-Length Veils: Elbow/Fingertip
This is by far the most classic length amongst veils, probably because it’s the most versatile. This length is great for the girl who doesn’t particularly feel one way or another about a hair piece, but wants the traditional look. Mid-length veils work with a variety of silhouettes: full, straight, a-line, tea-length, or trumpeted. This length is also perfect for trimming! Whether you chose a delicate hand rolled edge, a subtly shiny beaded trim or a lace trim – this is the length to do it!
(etsy)
(anatomy double layer fingertip veil; hand rolled edge)
Long Length Veils: Waltz/Ballet/Chapel/Cathedral
Personally, I find the waltz/ballet length to work best with dresses that are modern in silhouette with a puddle train. It ends right at the ankles, by the break of the train so a dress with a modest train, or no train at all is best. And in regards to chapel and cathedral length trains with an unfinished edge, which average 90″-120″ in length go for a dress that is slimming in silhouette, simple and airy.
(etsy)
(etsy)
(etsy)
(watters)
Novelty Veil: Embellished/Mantilla
At any length, veils can be embellished. You can add shine with a lightweight beaded trim, lace or a piping. Mantilla veils sit atop your head and are trimmed in lace which drapes beautifully along the face and arms. Follow the same tips listed above for which length to choose with which silhouette, but when it comes to the dramatic 10′ long train why not make a statement?!
(etsy)
(etsy)
If you’re looking for the perfect accompaniment to your wedding dress come into anatomy for a consultation!
xoxo
Ali