Types of Bridal Veils Explained

The bridal veil is one of the most recognizable parts of the bridal attire. When shopping for a bridal veil, there are a number of choices available. Yet, which bridal veil is right for different occasions, and which one looks best with certain types of gowns? Here are some different types of veils available:

Blusher Veil

This is the short veil worn over the bride’s face. It usually falls just below the collarbone and above the bust. The blusher veil tends to measure between 24 to 26 inches from the top of the headpiece to the hem of the veil. When measuring for the veil the hairstyle of the bride should be taken into consideration. The blusher veil was designed to demonstrate a bride’s innocence and modesty, so it continues to be a popular choice for most first-time brides. However, even second and third-time brides choose to wear a blusher veil. Because it hides the face, it adds to the drama of the ceremony. Traditionally it was held that the groom would lift the blusher veil to kiss the bride at the end of the ceremony. However, today many fathers choose to lift the blusher veil to kiss their daughters prior to “giving them away” to be married at the altar.

Fly-Away Veil

The fly-away veil is multi-layered, and it just brushes the shoulders. It is a less formal bridal veil that should be worn with a less formal gown. However, it can be paired with a formal gown that has a lot of detailing down the back.

 Birdcage Veil

More common for older brides, the birdcage veil extends to just over the chin. It tends to be made of Russian veiling (a wide-open weave of netting). This type of veil tends to go very well with cocktail dresses or dinner suits often worn at civil ceremonies.  

 Elbow-Length Veil

 Just as it sounds, this veil extends down to the elbow. It can be single or multi-layered. With the multi-layers they are cut to the same length or 1 to 2 inches apart with two to three layers.

 Fingertip Veil

 

The fingertip veil is the most commonly worn style, because it is the most flattering to any bride and gown. The veil extends to the bride’s fingertips and can be worn through the ceremony and reception with ease. Ballet Length Veil

The ballet length veil extends down to the ankles, but never touches the ground. It is flattering for women wearing a sheath gown or a gown without a train.

 Chapel Length Veil

The chapel length veil is best worn with a gown that has a chapel length train. This veil extends 6 to 12 inches beyond the train of the gown. Since this veil make it difficult to move around easily, it is best removed before the reception.

  Semi-Cathedral Veil

Best worn with veils that have a cathedral length train, this veil extends about 6 to 12 inches beyond the end of the train of the gown. Since this veil extends beyond the gown, the veil is best detached before the reception.

Cathedral Veil

 Again, this veil is best worn with the train that shares its name, and it should also extend 6 to 12 inches beyond the end of the train of the gown. Also, this veil should be removed before the reception.