Length
Choosing the right length is possibly the most important decision when looking at veils — it has to accentuate your features (body type, face shape and hair style) and not obscure the intricate details of your gown. The venue also matters; if your wedding is outdoors, you may want to avoid veils that may end up sweeping the ground. There are a total of seven veil lengths to choose from, ranging from and not limited to the 20 inch shoulder length to 144 inch cathedral length.
Show off your elegant back with a shorter veil, or walk down the aisle in royal resplendence with a veil that trails after your every step. Fingertip veils at approximately 36 inches flatter almost every body type and are perfect for brides who wish for a more sophisticated look that still reveals all the gorgeous details on their dress.
Style
Pick a style that complements your wedding dress. Birdcage veils exude a vintage vibe and pairs well with a shorter dress. If you are going for a dramatic look, the bandeau veil is both unique and sensual. The blusher veil is slightly longer than the birdcage and ends around the shoulders, while the cathedral veil is usually pinned on the back of the head.
You may also like the Juliet Wedding Cap, which can be either pinned behind each ear or worn like a cap. Bohemian-styled drop veils are also becoming increasingly popular, especially when topped off with a headband. Our favourite has to be the mantilla veil that typically features an elaborately designed trimming and is pinned close to your hairline for an effortlessly gorgeous look.
Colour
Don't be fooled by the similar shades of white on veils that can make or break your overall wedding look — white, diamond white, ivory and champagne. Also, these shades will look different with different materials such as tulle or silk chiffon. The shades you see online can be illusory, so make sure to match the veil with your wedding dress or a sample of your gown's fabric. When in doubt, you should go for a lighter shade unless your veil is a family heirloom or is meant to have that aged, antique tone.
Fabric
Most veils are made out of a fabric called Bridal Illusion that has a diamond pattern and is completely made of nylon. If you're looking for a less transparent veil, the English Tulle that is made out of cotton also has more draping in a hexagonal pattern. Cheaper alternatives include chiffon and organza, while Swiss Dot and Point D'Esprit veils are specialty tulles for brides looking for a specific style. The most expensive is the premium silk tulle for a delicate, soft veil — just like the one Kate Middleton donned for her royal wedding.
