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How to Choose & Style a Wedding Veil

The traditional finishing touch to a wedding-day ensemble, a veil is the accessory guaranteed to make you feel like a bride. From short and sweet to long and dramatic, there are many types of wedding veils styles to choose from, and each one brings its own unique personality to your gown. We'll guide you through the ins and outs of wedding veil types to help you find the perfect style for your big day.

Bridal Veil Styles & Lengths

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Cathedral Veil

Length: 120"
Look: Dramatic, regal
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Chapel Veil

Length: 90"
Look: Classic, romantic
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Fingertip Veil

Length: 45"
Look: Versatile, modern
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Blusher Veil

Length: 30"
Look: Traditional, sweet

Choosing Your Veil Color

If you're opting for an "all-dressed-in-white" look, select a veil in the exact shade of white as your gown, or a shade lighter. Avoid veils darker than your dress.

How to Wear Your Veil

Fastening
Veils can be fastened several ways. For the most secure hold, fasten your veil by first flipping the comb upside down (teeth facing up). Gently slide the comb upward so it grabs a bit of hair, then flip it over so the curve cups the back of your head.

If your veil doesn't come with an attached comb, you can fasten it using pins or a headpiece. If you plan to use pins to secure your veil, choose pins that match your hair color.

Positioning
For a classic look, position the veil at the top of your head. For a more modern approach, try placing it on the crown or back of your head. Make sure to play around with the placement before your wedding day!

Layering
A two-tier veil has a second layer of material that can be worn over the face and lifted during the ceremony. You can also choose not to cover your face and let both tiers fall down your back for a romantic waterfall effect.

Q&A: Common Wedding Veil Questions

Why do brides wear veils?
Historically, veils were meant to conceal the bride's face, a gesture believed to ward off meddlesome spirits who might attempt to ruin the festivities. Today, many brides still choose to wear a veil for its traditional, romantic look.

Who lifts the bride's veil?
There's no right or wrong answer here! Traditionally, the bride's father lifts the veil after walking down the aisle. Alternately, the bride's spouse might lift it before the "first kiss." Or you may opt to lift your own veil, or give the honor to another family member or friend. If you're dreaming of the classic "unveiling moment," consider a blusher veil that is easily lifted after walking down the aisle.

When should a bride take off the veil?
Again, there's no "correct" answer here! Some brides remove their veils right after the ceremony, while others may wait until after the reception entrance. But if you love your veil, we say keep it on all night – you won't get a chance to wear this accessory again!

Is it OK not to wear a wedding veil?
Of course! If a veil isn't your style, a bridal headband, hair pins, hair combs, or other accessories can add a special touch.