Wedding veil is an important accessory for wedding dresses. Wedding dresses with different length and shape can be selected according to the dresses.
Start With the Length
To find the ideal veil to match your wedding style, first consider length. Test out a variety of options when you go for your first dresses fitting to see what length works best with your gown. That means finding a style that complements your overall silhouette—you don't want your veil to interrupt the flow of your look. Designers will often make veils tailored specifically for their dresses, so you can use these as a starting point. Shorter veils, like bandeaus, birdcages and blushers, tend to lend a bit more personality as well as an informal or retro edge to your look, while longer veils (ballet, chapel and cathedral styles) lean more in the way of tradition and formality. If you can't find one you love, you can always go the custom route.
Choose a Complementary Color
Aim to match the color of the veil to your wedding gown as closely as you can. And since photos may not accurately portray the correct color, bring a swatch of fabric from your dress when you go veil shopping. The one exception to this rule is antique veils—you shouldn't try dying a vintage veil (it's not worth the risk of ruining such a delicate piece). As long as the colors are close enough don't worry if they're not a 100 percent match, so it won't matter if it's slightly off in color.
Find the Perfect Fabric
You can't go wrong with tulle—it's a classic choice for veils—but depending on the look you're after, there are also a variety of other materials to consider, such as lace, silk and satin. In most cases, tulle is the most budget-friendly option, and it offers a few benefits over pricier fabrics. Synthetic materials like tulle tend to keep their shape better and have a lighter, more ethereal look than silk and satin, which are more likely to appear heavy and hang straight.
Don't Forget About Your Hair
Before you decide on a veil, it's smart to have some idea how you'll wear your hair on your wedding day—the style you choose may affect your final veil decision. For example, halo veils, bridal caps and mantilla veils work best when hair is worn down or in low updos, while blushers and birdcages are much more versatile and can be worn with most hairstyles. Your hairstyle might also affect where you place the veil and how you secure it. If you're wearing your hair up, you can wear the veil above or below a bun or chignon. Pinning it above gives it more volume and achieves a more classic look, while placing it below feels more modern and keeps the focus on your stylish updo. Once you've purchased your veil, don't forget to take it (along with any other hair accessories you plan to wear) to your hair trial appointments, so you and your stylist can find the perfect 'do (and there won't be any last-minute surprises).
Accessorize Wisely
Your hairstyle isn't the only detail that can affect the type of veil you choose—other hair accessories make a difference too. A voluminous fountain veil, for example, isn't going to pair well with an equally dramatic tiara. Instead, classic styles, like elbow, cathedral, chapel or fingertip length, look best with a royal topper or beaded or crystal headband. Mantillas are traditionally worn with an ornate comb; halo veils often require a wreath, headband or cap to hold them in place; and blushers and birdcage styles go great with unique accents, like a feather clip or floral barrette. You can use your accessories to hold your veil in place or keep the two separate and attach the veil to your hairstyle with an indetectable clear comb.
Highlight the Back of Your Dress
Does the back of your wedding gown have a daring open-back, lace panel, intricate cutout or other dramatic detail? Don't hide it under too many layers of tulle or a wall of heavy satin fabric. Opt for a super-sheer veil with just one or two layers to let those gorgeous details shine through.