Before you pick out a dress and matching veil, ask yourself if a veil is an appropriate accessory for your wedding. For the brides who want to follow proper tradition, there are some pointers to consider.
- If your wedding dress is especially ornate, perhaps decorated with hand-beading, lace, or lots of ruffles, you should not choose a fancy veil. Instead, pick one that will not become the center of focus.
- If you choose an antique veil, don't be tempted to spruce it up by dying it a whiter shade! You will ruin the fabric for sure. The veil does not have to match the dress exactly, and as it is sheer, the exact shade of white probably won't be apparent.
- If you want to show off the back of your dress, do not wear a full length veil that covers up details such as a row of pearl buttons or a flurry of bows.
- Don't feel that any ornamentation on your veil "beads, lace, etc." have to match perfectly with the ornamentation on your dress. A subtle difference can actually be quite attractive.
- Don't attach your veil so securely that you won't be able to remove it after the ceremony, if that's what you plan to do. Attach the veil with the proper fabric hooks and closures for easy removal.
- Traditionally, it is considered bad form for a bride who has been previously married or a pregnant bride to wear a veil. However, exceptions have been made for simple, shorter veils.
How do you know what kind of veil is right for you? The first thing to consider is the shape of your face. Once you have determined if your face is round, oblong, square, heart-shaped, diamond, or oval, pick a veil that could be described as the opposite of your face shape. For example, if you have a round face, you will want a veil that is long and thin; if you have a square face with an angled jaw line, pick a veil that has soft, rounded edges.
In addition, you will want to take into account your body shape and size. If you are a petite bride, stay away from a puffy, cascading floor-length veil that will swallow you up. Instead, a narrower veil that falls to your waist will create a nice long line and may even make you appear taller.
Final Look
Regardless of the style you choose, don't forget to look in a full length mirror to get front and back views. You want to make sure the fabric on your dress and your veil are falling correctly.
Choosing a veil is a very personal decision. Take your time and choose wisely. You'll be glad you did when you march down the aisle and look like royalty.