To Veil or Not To Veil

The history of the wedding veil is long, varied and changes from culture to culture. I for one am a big fan of the traditional bridal veil mainly because it is indicative only of a bride. You’ll never catch a super model wearing a veil, or a teacher or a nurse, or even a bridesmaid – no it is reserved – in modern times for the bride. 

It is said that the origin of the bridal veil dates back to Ancient Rome. The family would veil the bride from her groom to ward off evil spirits. In concealing her beauty, it would challenge demons to even find her. Thus, a tradition was born.

Now, for the modern western, wedding the veil has become a fashion accessory, a beauty icon or a religious requirement. For a full history visit Wikipedia.

For me, it was of the utmost importance “To Veil.” For some brides it isn’t. But veils signify a change of life from single to married, signifies an important event – a wedding, signifies joy, love and beauty, highlights the bride’s features and appearance, and is the “crowning” glory reserved only for a bride on her wedding day.

I assure you that you will never wear a veil again. I loved my veil so much, that on extra fruit loopy days, I’ll clean the house wearing it!

Perhaps you’re confused as to what kind of veils there are out there. Bridal veils are nearly as different as people or snowflakes. In an effort to be succinct however, let me just name a few. 

BLUSHER: The blusher is a single layer veil worn over the brides face before the ceremony. It is usually worn with another veil behind the head piece and then removed after the ceremony or simply placed behind the brides head during the "you may kiss the bride." The blusher is a direct descendant of the old Roman veil and adds a very special something to any wedding ceremony. A blusher is something I wish I had done for my own wedding!

BIRDCAGE VEIL: The birdcage veil has been an ever present force in not only the world of bridal. But it has recently made a very strong comeback for brides. It is not for everyone and honestly, if you don't know what you're doing stylistically, you could be treading in some dangerous waters. Ask a friend, who you think has exceptional style, if it works with your dress, style, feeling etc.

CHAPEL VEIL: The Chapel Veil is a formal veil. The most famous variety of Chapel Veil is the Mantilla. It was popularized in Queen Isabelle's Spain. The Mantilla is gorgeous and it is so flattering. It's the photo I featured here first. It is a circular veil that rests on the head. The "chapel" term often indicates length. Shorter than a cathedral veil and longer than a waltz veil.

CATHEDRAL VEIL: The Cathedral Veil is the queen of the all the veil families. It is very formal and drags several feet behind the bride. The most famous Cathedral Veil was worn by Princess Diana but was surpassed in length by nearly 2 feet as worn by Star Jones.

ELBOW AND FINGERTIP: These veils are exactly what they say. One is to your elbow and one is to your fingertips.

The above are pretty good examples of veil lengths and styles. I have not included Waltz Veils or Flyaway Veils and I haven't even begun to mention edges, materials,  or headpieces... And the best resource I have found about veils, in addition to what you see here is The Flirty Bride.