The ultimate cover-up

For some, a veil is integral to their trousseau. But they’re hardly everyday attire, so here’s how to make choosing one less daunting…

Veils have two ‘tiers’ – one longer layer that hangs down your shoulders and back and one shorter layer (the blusher veil) that can be worn over your face.
 

• Shoulder – the shortest veil length and has a second layer that skims your shoulders.
• Waist – slightly longer, with one layer to your waist and the other past your shoulders.
• Hip – the first layer falls just past your waist with a second layer that skims your hips
• Floor – a veil that skims the floor, with a second layer that comes halfway down your back.
• Train – this theatrical veil trails on the floor and has a second layer that sits halfway down your back.
• Cathedral – even longer and more dramatic than a train – we’re talking true Princess Di style.

If your dress is fairly simple and elegant, a full-length veil has the impact you might feel you need to be an attention-grabbing bride. To add drama to a simple dress, you could go for a highly detailed veil, perhaps scattered with diamante beading or one that’s embroidered at the hem.
If you’re wearing a princess-style dress with a full skirt, a floor-length veil can feel too fussy. But a short veil – one that’s shoulder- or hip-length – would add a modern edge to a traditional outfit and still give the same effect.
 

Veil etiquette

In a church ceremony, it is traditional for the short part of your veil (the ‘blusher’) to be worn over your eyes when you enter, and to be lifted up when you arrive at the altar. Your vicar should talk you through when to lift your veil, and will give you a signal so that you’re not worrying about getting it right.
At a civil ceremony the rules are more relaxed, and it’s down to you whether you choose to wear a veil or not. It’s your day, so if you want a full-length veil, go for it!
 

Your hairstyle

Before you buy your veil, think about how it will fit with your chosen hairstyle. Discuss this with your stylist when you go for your trials.
For those brides wishing to wear the blusher over their face, an updo with the veil pinned at the top, or loose locks with the veil behind a tiara or headband towards the back of your head, will both look stunning. If the veil covers a lot of your hair, you can always plan to remove it after photographs and before the reception.
If you aren’t worried about covering your face, veils look gorgeous pinned under a sleek updo; worn this way they have the added bonus of showing off your hairstyle too.