The Perfect Wedding Veils For Your Dress

Common Veil Lengths Defined

Understanding standard lengths helps ensure you choose a veil that hits at a flattering point on your body:

• Birdcage (9–12 inches): Covers just the eyes or down to the chin; perfect for vintage or retro-inspired looks.
• Shoulder-length (20 inches): Typically paired with casual dresses or gowns with detailed bodices.
• Fingertip (36–42 inches): The most popular length; hits at the fingertips when arms are relaxed. It works with almost every dress style.
• Waltz/Ballet (54–60 inches): Falls between the knee and ankle; ideal for dresses without a train, allowing you to dance without bustling the veil.
• Chapel (90 inches): Extends slightly onto the floor, often creating a subtle train effect.
• Cathedral (108–120+ inches): The longest length; designed for formal ceremonies and dramatic photos. It extends well beyond the dress train.

The Timeless Bride

Onto the timeless bride. If you’re the kind of bride who is looking to be in a wedding that withstands the test of time, you have come to the right place. Here are some veils to add to your inspiration board.

Flyaway

The flyaway veil is a great choice for the bride who really doesn’t want the veil to play a big role in their final wedding look. It’s one single layer of material and tends to be a simple take on the veil.

Waltz/Ballet

Last but not least, the longest veil option for the timeless bride. The Waltz Veil aka Ballet Veil usually falls below the knee and above the ankle. If you know you’re not looking for a dramatic veil but can’t quite commit to anything short, this is probably the best bet for you. It gives just a little bit of everything.

Another veil to consider looking into for the timeless bride is the Elbow veil!

The Modern Bride

If you’re the type of bride looking for a veil that is not only modern but timeless, look no further!  You can personalize the following veils in any way that fits your theme. Pearls will add that touch of elegance. Lace on the other end will add a layer of romanticism to your veils. Here are some veils to add to your inspiration board.

Elbow + Fingertip Veils

One of the easiest ways to keep it timeless is by going for veils that fall in the middle of options. This is where the Elbow Veils and Fingertip Veils come into play. Just as they’re names hint at, they fall at the elbows or fingertips. These are also great options if you’re the bride who wants the skirt or pantsuit to still take center stage.

Flyaway

The flyaway veil is a great choice for the person who really doesn’t want the veil to play a big role in their final wedding look. It’s one single layer of material and tends to be a simple take on the veil.

Waltz/Ballet

Last but not least, the longest veil option for the timeless bride. The Waltz Veil aka Ballet Veil usually falls below the knee and above the ankle. If you know you’re not looking for a dramatic veil but can’t quite commit to anything short, this is probably the best bet for you. It gives just a little bit of everything.

The Regal Bride

Alright, if you read through all of the previous veil options and were not impressed, you probably fall under the regal bride category. You are looking for drama in your look, head turns, oooooh’s, and ahhs. Here are the perfect veils for you!

Cathedral

We’ll start you off with the granddaddy of all wedding veils! This is the moment, as it stretches for feets, miles (okay maybe not miles) but the limit does not exist! The cathedral veil works perfectly for more upscale weddings.

Mantilla

This Spanish-style veil has royalty written all over it. Its ties to the Catholic church. The stunning interiors add to the grand scale of the veil. The overall shape of this veil is circular and falls beautifully on any bride. The mantilla veil usually has lace trim all around the perimeter.

Some other veils to consider looking into for the regal bride include the Chapel and Waltz veils!

FAQ: Choosing Your Veil

How do I decide between one or two layers?

A single-tier veil provides a cleaner, more modern look, while a two-tier veil (often with a blusher) adds volume and is traditional if you plan to wear the top layer over your face during the ceremony.

When should I buy my veil?

It is best to purchase your veil at least 3–4 months before your wedding date, ideally after your first or second dress fitting, so you can see how the color and length coordinate with the gown.

Can I wear a veil with a busy dress back?

Yes, but opt for a “sheer” or “illusion” tulle without lace or heavy beading along the edges so the veil does not hide the intricate details of your dress’s back.

Pro Tip for Brides: Always consider your venue when selecting a cathedral-length veil. Cathedral veils look stunning in cathedrals or large ballrooms but can be difficult to manage for outdoor garden ceremonies due to wind and debris.

Shop Online For Wedding Veils!

So now that you’re aware of the veil types, you’re ready to shop! The exciting part about veils is that they can be adjusted and custom-made to your taste. Think embellishments like pearls, rhinestones, trims, etc! The choices are endless! Some of our favorite online bridal accessory shops include:

• Untamed Petals: They have everything from veils, to gloves, and even party dresses for the bride!
• BHLDN: This bridal brand brought to you by Anthropologie not only offers bridal accessories but everything else a bride could need for any of the bridal festivities. Including shoes!
• LOHO: This brand features some one-of-a-kind headwear accessories and attire for brides!
• AM Faulkner: This designer focus on bridal accessories to top off the bride’s look. Of course including stunning veils, but headbands and capes as well!

Claire Pettibone: This one is highly recommended for the vintage and regal bride. The veils include lots of intricate lace details.

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For more wedding inspiration, don’t forget to check our blog page. If you are ready to start planning and discussing ideas, contact us today to kickstart your wedding planning with our photography, videography, DJ, photo booth, and coordination services in Colorado Springs, CO, and surrounding areas. We can’t wait to help make your wedding day complete!