Bridal Veils - Style & Fashion Guide

CHOOSING A VEIL

VEIL: An integral piece of your wedding day ensemble. It sets you apart by letting the world know that you are the bride.

Nothing says "bride" quite like a veil... Of course your dream dress will make you look and feel special, but it's the veil that adds an unmistakable element of glamour and sets you apart from the crowd.

Today there are so many chic options that brides who never dreamed of wearing a veil are opting for this once-in-a-lifetime romantic look. Veil trends range from simply modern styles to luxuriously embellished with Swarovski crystals and pearls. Try a timeless classic: a simple blusher paired with a single-tiered veil (short, medium or long, the choice is yours). Or go for the drama of a cathedral veil. Whether you're getting married in a formal setting or a casual ceremony on the beach, a long flowing veil is sure to create a striking image... and amazingly beautiful photos.

There are many variations in veil length, shape, color, edging, and embellishment, so we are here to help you make sense of it all. Creating the perfect look is as easy as 1-2-3.

1. Choose from a variety of lengths and shapes
2. Select the level of embellishment that's right for you
3. Combine your veil ensemble with the perfect headpiece

1. THE LONG AND SHORT OF IT
Veils come in several lengths, from short and sweet to long and flowing:

Blusher veil: To add a hint of formality to a longer veil, a lightweight tulle blusher is traditionally worn over the bride's face during the ceremony. It is customary for the groom or the father of the bride to flip it back, revealing the bride's lovely face. The blusher is typically removed for the reception, creating a whole new look

Short veil: Lightweight and comfortable, the shorter veil is a fun option that adds a modern touch of whimsy to dresses, from tea-length styles to long sheath gowns.

Elbow length veil: Endlessly versatile and easy to wear, elbow-length veils are designed to complement just about any gown style, offering a modern twist on the timeless tradition.

Fingertip veil: This glamorous style extends to the fingertips to create an elongated silhouette. The sheer effect coordinates easily with most gowns and settings, from simple to elaborate.

Chapel/Cathedral veil: The most dramatic and popular veil, the Cathedral length cascades to the floor in true fairytale fashion. This luxurious style creates an elongated silhouette and complements all bridal designs, from an elaborate ball gown to a modern sheath. Unadorned long, narrow styles are the hottest trend for simply chic or modern affairs.

Shaping up
From oval to square, veils take on a shape all their own. For example, the exceptionally romantic, flowing mantilla, which consists of lace or lace-trimmed tulle, has a circular shape. Blushers are often square, while short or elbow length veils are typically oval. Fingertip veils are shaped like a teardrop or cape. Chapel and cathedral veils are long and narrow. Try each look to see which looks best with your face shape and gown style.

2. IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Beautiful Embellishments
Veils can be adorned with Swarovski crystals, pearls, beading or lace. Many of the veils in our collection are available exclusively at David's Bridal and offer embellishments that complement specific gowns or make any gown look even more stunning.

The Cutting Edge
The edging, or trim, of a veil can add an interesting design element. Some veils have a simple raw edge or sleek piping for a contemporary look. Others boast elegant beading, classic satin edging, romantic ribbon accents or lace details.

Color Me Pretty
Veils have always come in various shades of white and ivory to blend perfectly with individual bridal gowns, but now you also have the option of colored edging or beading detail. David's offers exclusive veils trimmed in beautiful hues that coordinate with the latest color-accented bridal dresses.

Luxurious Lace
Lace is one of the hottest bridal trends, thanks to its uniquely romantic and elegant qualities. Whether your gown features lace details or you've chosen a simple design, a lace-accented veil will add the perfect touch of glamour. Or try a vintage-inspired veil with embroidery that mimics lace.

Simple Elegance
To complement the sophisticated styling of newer gown trends like the mermaid or sheath silhouette, we offer a selection of simply modern veils. Choose a long and narrow veil for your walk down the aisle, and replace it with mid-length veil for a whole new look at your reception.

3. MAKE A MATCH
Take note of our many headpiece options to find the combination that works best with your wedding style. For example, if you've chosen a glamorous gown and an up-do hairstyle, add sparkling hair jewels (pins or a comb) and wear your veil below the bun. The look is ultra chic and modern, and it allows you to easily remove the veil after the ceremony. What better way to make a grand entrance at the reception!

With so many types of veils and headpiece options, you may appreciate some further guidance on how to put it all together. Let our bridal consultants help you to create the perfect combination.

View our Veil Collection