10 Tips for Finding the Perfect Veil For Your Wedding Dress
The bridal veil is a classic and iconic wedding accessory that can enhance your overall bridal look and add an extra touch of elegance and romance to your wedding attire. Finding the perfect veil to complement your dress is essential for achieving a harmonious and stunning bridal appearance.
As a wedding photographer, I felt I needed to share these 10 valuable tips to help you find the ideal veil to match your wedding gown and your personal style, ensuring you look and feel absolutely beautiful on your special day.
Finding the perfect veil to complement your dress
1. Consider Your Dress Style
The first step in selecting the perfect veil is to consider your dress style. The veil should complement the features and details of your gown. For example, if your dress has intricate lace or beading, a simple, sheer veil would be a great choice to avoid overwhelming your look. Conversely, if your gown is more minimalistic, you might opt for a more embellished or detailed veil to add a touch of sophistication.
2. Match the Length
The length of your veil should harmonize with your dress. Here are some common veil lengths and how they can work with different dress styles:
- Cathedral Veil: This long, dramatic veil extends beyond the train of your gown, creating a regal and elegant look. It pairs well with formal, classic ballgowns.
- Chapel Veil: Slightly shorter than the cathedral veil, the chapel veil falls right to the floor, adding a sense of grandeur without being overwhelming. It’s suitable for various dress styles, especially A-line and fit-and-flare gowns.
- Fingertip Veil: This veil extends to your fingertips, making it versatile and flattering for most dress styles, from sheath to ballgown.
- Elbow-Length Veil: A shorter veil, ending at the elbow, adds a charming and vintage touch. It works well with tea-length or retro-inspired dresses.
- Blusher Veil: A blusher veil covers your face and is often paired with more traditional, classic wedding dresses. It adds a sense of mystique to your bridal look.
3. Consider Your Hairstyle
The way you plan to style your hair on your wedding day can influence the type of veil you choose. If you’re going for an updo, you have the flexibility to wear a veil that attaches higher on your head, like a fingertip or chapel veil. For down hairstyles, a veil that attaches lower, such as a cathedral veil, may be more suitable.
4. Be Mindful of Your Face Shape
Your face shape can play a role in choosing the right veil. For those with an oval face shape, most veil styles tend to work well, giving you the flexibility to choose the one that complements your dress the best. If you have a round face, consider opting for a veil with some height or volume on top to help elongate your face. Here’s an example of a wide range of wedding dresses in Melbourne to complement different face shapes, making it easier for brides to discover the perfect gown that accentuates their unique features.
For heart-shaped faces, veils that narrow at the top can help balance your face shape, creating a harmonious look. If you have a square face, a softer, cascading veil can work to soften the angles and edges of your face, providing a more gentle and flattering appearance. On the other hand, individuals with long faces may benefit from a veil with some width, such as a blusher or a veil with a fuller crown, as it can add a sense of balance to their overall bridal look.
5. Pay Attention to Veil Edging
The edging of the veil is a small detail but one that can make a big difference in how it complements your dress. Some common edging options include lace, satin, and raw (unadorned) edges. Consider what works best with the details on your gown. For instance, a lace-edged veil can beautifully match a lace wedding dress.
6. Test the Veil with Your Dress
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s essential to test the veil with your dress. Schedule a fitting or try-on session with your dress and potential veils to ensure they work together harmoniously. Take photos from various angles to see how they look together and make any necessary adjustments.
7. Coordinate with Dress Color
If your wedding dress is not a traditional white or ivory, make sure your veil complements the dress color. Veils come in various shades, so choose one that matches the dress color precisely to avoid a mismatched look.
8. Think About Your Theme and Venue
Consider the theme and venue of your wedding when selecting a veil. A beach wedding, for instance, might call for a shorter, more casual veil, while a formal church wedding could accommodate a longer and more elaborate veil. Think about the overall ambiance and style of your wedding when making your choice.
9. Customize Your Veil
Don’t be afraid to customize your veil to make it uniquely yours. You can add personal touches like monograms, lace appliqués, or even have a custom veil made to match your dress perfectly. Customization allows you to create a veil that’s as special and unique as your love story.
10. Seek Professional Advice
Finally, consult with professionals in bridal fashion. Bridal consultants, dress designers, and experienced veil makers can provide expert guidance on finding the perfect veil to complement your dress and achieve the desired bridal look.
Selecting the perfect veil to complement your wedding dress is a crucial aspect of your bridal ensemble. By considering your dress style, matching the length, coordinating with your hairstyle, and being mindful of your face shape, you can ensure that your veil enhances your overall look. Pay attention to the edging, test the veil with your dress, and think about your theme and venue to make an informed choice. Don’t forget to coordinate with your dress color and customize your veil if necessary.
Seeking professional advice can be immensely helpful in finding the perfect veil. With these tips, you’re well on your way to finding the perfect veil to complete your bridal look and make your wedding day even more memorable and beautiful.
