Your Ultimate Guide to Wedding Veils: Styles, Lengths & Expert Tips
From classic cathedral veils to personalised embroidered designs, this guide helps every bride find the perfect veil for her wedding dress and style
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From Meghan Markle’s regal cathedral length wedding veil, to Hailey Bieber’s unforgettable pearl veil wedding look, celebrity brides continue to prove that the right veil can be just as iconic as the gown itself. But, before you're ready for the bridalwear shops, you might have a few questions.
Does a mantilla wedding veil or a vintage-inspired birdcage wedding veil suit your style? And how do you choose a look that works seamlessly with your wedding dress and veil combination?
Once a symbol of tradition and mystery, today’s wedding veils are all about self-expression. Whether paired with a sleek wedding gown with veil, styled into half up half down wedding hair with veil, or finished with an elegant wedding veil updo, the right veil doesn’t just complement your outfit - it transforms it.
So, if you’ve decided you’d like to wear a veil, the next step is figuring out which style and length feels right for you. From chapel length wedding veils that float behind you, to playful bow wedding veils, delicate flower wedding veils, or modern wedding veils with pearls, there’s a look for every bride.
Here, we break down the different types of wedding veils, explore wedding veil lengths, and share advice from wedding wear experts on styling wedding veils and hairstyles - plus our top picks from the best wedding veil shops in the UK right now.
- Pearl & Embellished Veils
- Lace Veils
- Mantilla Veils
- Bow Veils
- Embroidered & Personalised Veils
- The 7 Types of Wedding Veil
- How to Choose a Wedding Veil
- What Style Wedding Veil Will Suit Your Wedding Dress?
- Veils For Brides: Ask the Experts
Wedding Veils You'll Love: Pearl & Embellished Veils
Nothing says elegance like a veil embellished with pearls or other gorgeous accessories. From sparkly jewels to lustrous pearls, here are some of our favourite embellished wedding veil designs.
1. Celestial Veil – Grace Loves Lace
Covered in 139 glass gems and unapologetically bold, if you want your wedding day get-up to truly wow, the Celestial wedding veil from Grace Loves Lace is the one for you. As far as wedding veils with crystals go, it's a real winner.
2. Barely There Skylar Veil – Not On The High Street
The Skylar veil by Britten Weddings is perfect for brides who want something subtle and understated, with the option to accessorise with a sparkly embellishment. It would look beautiful paired with a wedding hair up-do and can be attached to a silver, gold or rose gold clip.
3. Pleated Wedding Veil – Etsy
Whilst it's not embellished with anything, the interesting texture of this veil makes for a really interesting, contemporary effect.
A modern alternative to the traditional wedding veil, this pleated piece is available in shoulder, elbow, fingertip, and ballet length to suit your needs. It falls so elegantly!
4. Riviera Bridal Cathedral Wedding Veil – Etsy
Yes, the Riviera bridal veil is pricey, but it will leave your guests (and your partner!) speechless. From the pearl detailing to the delicate florals, if you're after an out of this world wedding veil, this is it.
5. Polka Veil – Ann-Marie Faulkner
Brides who want to rock something a little different on their big day will adore this veil by Ann-Marie Faulkner. This elbow-length veil has been made using a delicately soft French tulle in ivory with flocked ivory spots.
6. Silver Mica Flake Veil – Etsy
Flecked with metallic flakes, this tulle wedding veil is an ethereal and magical accessory. Choose from silver or gold and watch your wedding day look totally transform when you wear it.
Wedding Veils You'll Love: Lace Veils
Lace is a staple fabric for a wedding, and for good reason. With so many different types of lace to choose from, it's a beautifully intricate fabric guaranteed to flatter every nearlywed.
7. Annette Lace Wedding Veil – Etsy
There's something seriously special about an all-lace wedding veil and this option by La Voile Rose is ticking all our boxes. Available in multiple lengths, we love the idea of a cathedral wedding veil that is crafted from this luxe fabric.
8. Lace Flower Motif Wedding Veil – Britten
If you’re after something longer, the Paisley veil is a lovely choice. It has lace motifs appliqued around the edge of the train and the front of the veil which each have silver metallic threading running through them.
9. Leaf Lace Edge Veil – Emma Bridals
Available in five gorgeous shades like ivory, champagne and mink, this soft veil edged with a leafy, lace design is utterly perfect for an outdoor wedding - a lovely way to honour the surroundings of a gorgeous garden or forest.
10. Montrose Ivory Lace Veil – Lace & Favour
For a more dramatic look, this lace edge long design will truly make a statement as you walk down the aisle. The Montrose veil can be customised in length so every nearlywed can find their perfect fit.
12. Long Lace Cathedral Veil – Gigi & Olive
Gigi & Olive know when they're doing when it comes to wedding veils, and this cathedral lace style is a beautiful look that offers a bold twist on soft lace.
Wedding Veils You'll Love: Mantilla Veils
In 2026, mantilla veils are set to be all the rage - and it's not hard to see why! There's something beautifully traditional about them - take a look at our favourites to see why.
13. DAWN Mantilla Lace Veil – Blossom and Bluebird
This mantilla lace DAWN veil is the perfect blend of romance and sophistication. The delicately beaded Chantilly lace cap adds just the right amount of shimmer, while the soft tulle drapes effortlessly for an ethereal finish that feels both timeless and modern.
14. Organza Flower and Pearl Mantilla Veil – Richard Designs
This organza veil is a dream for anyone seeking romance with a touch of showstopper glamour. The delicate Italian tulle feels floaty and refined, while the organza flower appliqués frame the face and trail elegantly along the edges.
15. Alicia Mantilla Veil – The Mantilla Company
The Alicia Mantilla Veil is a true showstopper, handcrafted in Spain from soft ivory tulle and adorned with intricate European lace. Delicate clear beads and pearls embellish the lace, adding a touch of understated glamour.
16. Ophelia Veil – Grace Loves Lace
Crafted from luxuriously soft tulle and detailed lace trim made from recycled materials, the Ophelia veil frames the face beautifully, adding a touch of timeless romance to any bridal look.
17. Mantilla Veil – Kate Beaumont
This mantilla veil by Kate Beaumont offers a minimalist yet romantic touch, featuring a sleek, flat silhouette that gracefully frames the back without any gathering. Crafted from soft, silk-like polyester tulle, it boasts a delicate 2.5cm lace trim that adds a subtle, vintage-inspired elegance.
Wedding Veils You'll Love: Bow Veils
In 2025, we saw bows take the wedding industry by storm - and they're not going anywhere! Here are some of the cutest ways to style bows in your veil.
18. Pearl Encrusted Bow Veil - Charlotte Mills
This playful yet elegant pearl bow veil from Charlotte Mills adds a touch of whimsy to your bridal ensemble. Crafted from soft ivory tulle, it features delicate pearl embellishments that catch the light beautifully, a cute yet iconic accessory for your big day.
19. Ribbon Bow Veil - Gigi & Olive
Style with a fan like this nearlywed for a chic, adorable wedding day fit.
20. Luxury Tulle Bow Veil – Team Hen
Pretty and romantic, if a cheap wedding veil is what you are looking for, Team Hen have nailed it with their bow adorned beauty. You would never guess that it costs less than X12! Pair it with a bow wedding dress for a flirty, fun look.
21. Bow Bridal Veil – Story of my Dress
This plump, tulle bow veil is a more voluminous option to others, ideal for nearlyweds who want to make more of a statement with their veil whilst keeping to the bow trend.
And as it's made a soft tulle, it offers a more gentle look than other bows made from satin or more structured fabrics.
22. Satin Bow Veil – Katie Loxton
Fun and flirty, this is a sweet bow veil design that would flatter any contemporary wedding look. Amazing for a chic city wedding or a civil ceremony, it's understated yet effortlessly cool.
Wedding Veils You'll Love: Embroidered & Personalised Veils
For a truly unique touch, you can't go wrong with an embroidered veil. From gorgeous motifs and pretty designs to personalised initials, here are some of our favourites.
23. Margarita Daisy Veil – Anne-Marie Faulkner
This stunning chapel-length veil is made from soft tulle embroidered with a scattered daisy design in ivory. We’re all for a statement veil, and this one would look fabulous paired with a simple wedding dress.
24. Personalised Veil with Embroidered Script – Rebecca Anne
This personalised veil is the most beautiful way to honour your special day. Every element is customisable, from the number of tiers to the font choice and words displayed, this veil from Rebecca Anne Designs is truly special.
25. Personalised Mini Veil - Gigi & Olive
This cute customised veil design not only offers text personalisation, but also the chance to change the colour of the letters too. So, you can finally match with your bridesmaids whilst still wearing white!
The 7 Types of Wedding Veil
When it comes to choosing your perfect veil, knowing the different types of wedding veils can make all the difference. From the timeless elegance of a chapel length wedding veil to the vintage charm of a birdcage wedding veil, each style creates a unique look and feel for your wedding dress and veil moment.1. Cathedral-Length Wedding Veils
A cathedral-length wedding veil is the longest veil type of them all and will create an utterly regal look if a bride chooses to wear one on her wedding day. A cathedral veil will reach well past the end of the wedding dress, often measuring 120-144 inches in length.
2. Chapel Length Wedding Veils
Also referred to as a church-length veil, chapel veils ooze drama and glamour. They’re slightly shorter than cathedral wedding veils but are often chosen by brides who want the effect of a train without actually having one on their dress.
A chapel-length veil often sweeps across the floor behind the bride, extending slightly past her dress and measuring somewhere between 90 and 110 inches.
3. Waltz Wedding Veil
If you’re after a veil which falls between the calf and ankle, a waltz wedding veil is the wedding veil style for you. These are great if you’re hoping to keep your veil on well into the reception, because they don’t interfere with dancing.
The waltz wedding veil is also sometimes called a ballet wedding veil and measures somewhere between 54 and 60 inches.
4. Fingertip Wedding Veil
Fingertip wedding veils are perhaps the most popular wedding veil style, and for good reason. They fall just beyond the bride’s hip and are extremely flattering to most wedding dress styles. What’s more, they’re often single-tiered and beautifully sheer, so if you have any lovely detailing on the back of your dress, you guests will still be able to see it.
Fingertip wedding veils often measure around 40 inches in length.
5. Elbow Wedding Veil
Slightly shorter than the fingertip veil, elbow wedding veils typically measure 25 inches in length. Elbow veils are another hugely popular style due to their compatibility with most wedding dresses, from long sleeve wedding dresses to ballgown wedding dresses.
They fall gracefully over the bride’s shoulders to her elbows, and they’re a great way to cover your shoulders in a religious wedding ceremony without having to wear a bolero or shrug.
6. Shoulder-Length Wedding Veil
As the name suggests, the shoulder-length wedding veil falls to your shoulders before being cut off. They’re usually around 20 inches in length and are a great option for brides who want something understated which won’t compete with their dress.
They work particularly well with dresses which are heavily embellished on the bodice. Just remember - where in your hair you place the veil will alter the length of it!
7. Blusher Wedding Veil
Also known as an angle veil or wedge wedding veil, this veil style falls over the face and ends as the dress starts. Since it covers the face, it’s often pulled back by the bride’s partner at the start of the ceremony to reveal her face. This is a really romantic moment!
Top Tips for Choosing a Wedding Veil
Ready to choose your wedding veil? Follow these tips to get it right.
1. Consider Your Budget
As with any aspect of your wedding planning, you need to consider your wedding budget. For a seemingly small accessory, wedding veils can come with impressive price tags. Decide what you’re willing to spend on your veil and that’ll limit your options from the beginning.
2. Think About Your Hairstyle
The wedding hairstyle you choose will determine what style of veil you wear. If you go for a low up-do, you may wish to clip your veil underneath the base of your bun. If you choose to wear your hair down in long, tousled curls, it’s nice to add the veil to the crown of your head for added volume.
Speak to your bridal hairstylist before purchasing your veil to check they’ll be able to incorporate it into your chosen look.
3. Try Your Veil on With Your Dress
Your wedding dress is the star of the show on your big day, so you’ll want a veil which enhances your dress without outshining it.
Consider what type of veil goes with which dress (more on that later) and then try on lots of different options. You’ll soon be able to see which work and which don’t.
Which Style of Veil Goes with Which Style of Dress?
Your wedding dress and veil should feel like a match made in heaven, but not every gown suits every veil. A sleek, modern wedding gown with veil often calls for a minimalist style, while a romantic lace dress pairs beautifully with a delicate lace wedding veil or mantilla wedding veil.
To help you find the perfect pairing, we’ve broken down which types of wedding veils work best with different silhouettes, fabrics, and details.
If You’re Wearing a Simple Wedding Dress
If you’re wearing a simple wedding dress and don’t want anything too over-the-top, a blusher wedding veil would be the perfect choice. Choose one with a satin or lace trim if you’d like to frame your face, or a veil embellished in scattered pearls for a stylish take on tradition.
If You’re Wearing a Heavily Embellished Wedding Dress
If you’re already wearing a heavily embellished wedding dress, you can go one of two ways. If you want a sparkly and glamourous bridal look, go all-out and opt for a cathedral length train. Otherwise, opt for something shorter and simple with bead work around the trim.
If You’re Wearing a Dress with a Long Train
If you’re wearing a dress with a long train, you can pretty much wear any type of veil. That is, of course, as long as your dress doesn’t have lots of detailing to the back. A cathedral veil would be our choice - just make sure it extends past the end of the train!
If You’re Wearing a Dress with a Statement Back
If you’re wearing a dress with lots of pretty back detailing, opt for a blusher wedding veil which is designed with just one single tier. This will mean the veil is sheer enough for the detail to be admired through.
If You’re Wearing a Short Wedding Dress
If you’re wearing a short wedding dress, you’ll need to go for a shorter veil too. A blusher veil would be a lovely choice - or how about a veil alternative like a birdcage veil or headband?
Veils For Brides: Ask the Expert
Still not sure on which veil is right for you? Not to worry - we asked Rebecca Anne, owner and designer at Rebecca Anne Designs, and Ashleigh from Gigi & Olive for her recommendations on finding the perfect wedding veil for your big day.
What are the top wedding veil trends for 2026?
"For 2026, I’m seeing brides embrace veils with strong identity and storytelling", Rebecca explains. "Mantilla veils are growing in popularity, with their Spanish-inspired draped lace edge creating a striking frame for the face and shoulders.
"I’ve seen a spike of interest across my embroidered mantilla veils, both in website visits and Pinterest searches, suggesting this silhouette will be a key trend".
"Equally, personalised embroidery continues to rise. Almost all of my brides now opt for personalised embroidered veils - initials, dates, poetry, or florals inspired by their bouquet - a true reflection of the cultural shift towards heirloom-level details.
"Looking ahead, I also anticipate more brides choosing two-tier veils for 2026, offering both traditional romance and the dramatic reveal of a blusher moment. The revival of the 90s voluminous veil continues to come through on my enquiries for next year's veil commissions."
As for Ashleigh, the team at Gigi & Olive predict that we'll see the following trends skyrocket in 2026:
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Personalisation - embroidered initials, dates and motifs keep the veil uniquely yours.
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Scalloped edges - a couture finish that frames the hem and train beautifully in photos.
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Lace revival - mantilla frames, botanical lace and heirloom-inspired motifs feel fresh for 2026.
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Length as drama - cathedral and royal veils that elevate clean, minimalist silhouettes.
How do I choose the right veil length for my dress?
"The right length depends on the dress silhouette, venue, and the overall mood you want to create", Rebecca says. "For example, a sleek city wedding dress might look perfect with a fingertip or chapel veil, while a grand cathedral setting almost calls for a cathedral-length veil.
"I’ve also written a detailed guide, “The Perfect Veil Length: A Guide for Modern Brides”, which walks through each option - from short, playful styles to sweeping dramatic lengths - and how to balance them with your gown."
Meanwhile, Ashleigh adds that "the length of your veil is complexity up to you, however you should also consider matching the veil to your train length and silhouette: longer veils elongate and feel formal; fingertip/elbow keep things light and modern.
"If your dress has a statement back, pick sheer, raw-cut edges so details stay visible."
Can I wear a veil with my hair down or in a half-up style?
"Absolutely - veils are versatile, and can be styled with hair down, half-up, or in an updo", says Rebecca. "The key is the comb placement and whether you’d like the veil to sit high on the crown for volume, or lower for a more relaxed look."
Ashleigh agrees, adding that, "for hair-down, place the comb just above the crown; for half-up, tuck it into the seam of the section for extra hold."
How do I style a statement veil with my hairstyle?
Rebecca explains, "A statement veil becomes the focal point, so my advice is to keep the hairstyle elegant but not overpowering. A sleek bun or softly waved hair down both work beautifully, as long as they let the veil embroidery that you've chosen shine.
"If the veil has strong details at the crown - such as florals, pearls, or lace - I suggest a simpler hairstyle. If the detail is towards the bottom, you can be more playful with texture and accessories at the top."
What are the different types of wedding veils?
Rebecca shares that, "there are four core styles I’m most often asked to create:
- Single tier veils - elegant and simple, I've found to be the most popular choice year after year.
- Two tier veils - offering a blusher layer for the aisle reveal.
- Drop veils - a soft tiered style with no gather at the comb.
- Mantilla veils - circular veils with embroidered edging, draped low around the face and shoulders, rising in popularity for 2026.
"These are different to veil lengths (cathedral, chapel, fingertip, birdcage, etc.), which describe how far the veil extends."
Where can I buy wedding veils in the UK?
Rebecca says that, "Brides in the UK have two beautiful options when it comes to finding their veil. Many first discover the right silhouette during their dress appointments, where boutiques often stock a selection of veils to try on alongside the gown.
"This is such a valuable step, as it helps you see which lengths and styles feel right for you.
"For those who want to take it further, working directly with a designer offers something truly special. Through email or online video consultations, I collaborate 1:1 with brides to create a bespoke veil that feels deeply personal - whether it’s embroidered with meaningful words, initials, or flowers inspired by their heritage."
How do I coordinate my veil with my wedding dress?
"I believe there’s truly a veil for every dress and, more importantly, for every bride", Rebecca explains. "A veil is such a powerful extension of your personality. Unless you’ve gone fully bespoke with your dress, it’s one of the most meaningful ways to weave your own style and individuality into your bridal look.
"For a gown with heavy lace, you might choose an embroidered veil with lighter, airy details to balance it - perhaps subtle embroidery such as delicate initials or wedding date at the fingertip, which make the perfect photo opportunity when showing off your rings on the day.
"While a minimalist gown pairs beautifully with a statement veil which can bring that extra layer of personality."
Are statement veils suitable for all wedding themes?
"I’m biased, but yes", says Rebecca. "A statement veil can be tailored to suit any theme. I always advise brides to weave in elements of their wedding styling into their veil. For example, I recently created an “underwater meadow veil” featuring embroidered seahorses, starfish, and hidden names in the coral - the perfect statement piece for a coastal celebration.
"That’s the beauty of embroidery: it allows you to tell your story in a way that feels intentional and unique.
"I always make my veils to measurements and work with my brides and their boutiques to ensure the veil I create is complementary of the dress style and train size."
Finally, Ashleigh leaves us with the following tips: "tailor fabric and detailing: clean cathedral for city chic, floral appliqué for garden, sparkle tulle for evening/black-tie, birdcage for retro civil ceremonies.
"Whichever style & theme you go with you can always add a statement veil."
Now that you’ve chosen your wedding veil, you can add the other finishing touches to your wedding day outfit. Check out our round up of the best designer wedding shoes which are worth blowing your budget on.
