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The Wedding Veil Guide: How to Choose the Right Veil for Your Dress
Updated: 5 days ago
There's something about putting on a wedding veil that can make everything suddenly feel very real.
You might have found your dream dress, but adding a veil can completely transform the finished look.
From delicate fingertip veils to dramatic cathedral-length designs, there are so many beautiful options to choose from. But how do you know which length, style and colour will work best with your dress?
Here's our guide to finding the right wedding veil for you.
Do You Have to Wear a Wedding Veil?
Not at all!
Some brides love the traditional look of a veil, while others prefer a statement hair accessory or no headpiece at all.
There's no right or wrong choice.
If you're unsure, we'd always recommend trying a few different styles with your wedding dress. You might be surprised by how much you love one.
Wedding Veil Lengths Explained
One of the first things to consider is length.
Different veil lengths create very different looks, from something short and understated to a dramatic veil that trails behind your dress.
At & She Loves Bridal, our veils are available in a variety of lengths, with many styles available to order in different sizes and colours.
Here's a guide to the lengths available.
Elbow-Length Wedding Veils
30–52 inches | Single or double tier
Elbow-length veils are a lovely choice if you want something delicate without too much length.
They typically fall around the elbows or waist, depending on your height and the design.
They're ideal for brides looking for a simple, elegant finishing touch.
Fingertip-Length Wedding Veils
43–72 inches | Single or double tier
Fingertip veils are a popular choice because they offer a beautiful balance between elegance and practicality.
They generally fall around your fingertips or below, depending on the design and your height.
They can complement a wide range of wedding dress silhouettes, from fitted gowns to romantic A-lines.
Floor-Length Wedding Veils
78–108 inches | Single or double tier
Floor-length veils create a soft, flowing look that reaches towards the floor without necessarily extending into a long train.
They're a lovely option if you want something romantic and elegant.
Chapel-Length Wedding Veils
98–126 inches | Single or double tier
Chapel-length veils extend beyond the dress to create a beautiful trailing effect.
They're a popular option for brides who want a little drama without choosing the longest veil available.
Cathedral-Length Wedding Veils
114–144 inches | Single or double tier
If you're dreaming of a dramatic entrance, a cathedral-length veil might be the one.
These longer veils create a statement look, particularly for formal ceremonies or dresses with beautiful trains.
They can also look incredible in wedding photographs.
Abbey-Length Wedding Veils
151–180 inches | Single or double tier
Abbey-length veils are for brides who really want to make an entrance.
These extra-long veils create a dramatic trailing effect and can look particularly beautiful in larger ceremony spaces.
They're a stunning option if you love a traditional, statement bridal look.
Please note that measurements can vary depending on the veil design.
Single-Tier or Double-Tier Veil?
Another decision is whether you'd prefer a single-tier or double-tier veil.
A single-tier veil is one layer of fabric, often chosen for a softer, more understated look.
A double-tier veil has two layers and can include a shorter section, sometimes worn over the face as a blusher during the ceremony.
Both can look beautiful. The choice really comes down to the style you're hoping to achieve.
Should Your Veil Match Your Wedding Dress?
Your veil should complement your dress, but that doesn't mean it has to match every detail.
If your gown has intricate lace, embroidery or embellishment, a simple veil can help balance the overall look.
If your dress is sleek and minimalist, you might prefer a veil with pearls, lace edging or decorative details.
Colour is important, too.
Different shades of white and ivory can look surprisingly different when placed next to each other.
That's why trying a veil with your actual wedding dress can be so helpful.
Choosing Between a Plain and Detailed Veil
A simple tulle veil can be incredibly elegant, particularly with a statement wedding dress.
But if you want your veil to be a feature in its own right, there are lots of beautiful options.
You might prefer delicate lace edging, pearls, embroidery or a more dramatic design.
Think about the back of your wedding dress, too.
If your gown has beautiful detailing, you may want a sheer veil that allows it to remain visible.
What About Your Hairstyle?
Your hairstyle can influence how your veil sits and how it looks throughout the day.
If you're planning an updo, your veil may sit above or below your hairstyle, depending on the look you want.
For loose waves or a half-up style, think about how the veil will be secured.
It's worth showing your hairstylist a photograph of your chosen veil before your wedding day so they can plan how to incorporate it into your hairstyle.
Can You Remove Your Veil After the Ceremony?
Of course!
Many brides wear their veil for the ceremony and photographs, then remove it for the reception.
If you're choosing a particularly long or detailed veil, think about how easily it can be removed without disturbing your hairstyle.
You could also switch to a different hair accessory for the evening.
Can You Order a Wedding Veil in a Different Length or Colour?
Yes, many of our wedding veil styles can be ordered in different lengths and colours.
All our veils are beautifully crafted in the UK, and we can help you explore the options available for your chosen design.
Your veil can be ordered for collection from our Berkshire bridal studio or shipped directly to your door.
We also have a selection of veils available to try on and take home from the studio.
Can You Try Wedding Veils On Before Buying?
Absolutely.
We offer a 45-minute accessories appointment at our private bridal studio in Arborfield, near Reading.
If you've already found your wedding dress, we recommend bringing it along to your appointment.
That way, you can see how different veil lengths, colours and styles work with your actual gown rather than trying to imagine the finished look.
It's particularly helpful when choosing between different shades of ivory or deciding whether you want a simple veil or something more detailed.
Find Your Perfect Wedding Veil at & She Loves Bridal
Whether you're looking for a delicate fingertip veil or a dramatic cathedral-length design, we'd love to help you find the perfect finishing touch.
Explore our collection of beautifully crafted UK wedding veils online, or book a private accessories appointment to try different styles with your dress.
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