There's how many types of veils ?!

Did you know there’s 11 types of “traditional” veils in western weddings? Yes! And if you just got a bit of whiplash from hearing that number I don’t blame you . Perhaps after the number shock it all starts to feel a bit daunting as you sent simply from the decision of veil or no veil to which type of veil. Let’s discuss them all!

Finger tip length

1. Birdcage Veil: They are short & structured with a bit of a retro vibe. It typically covers just the face or even partial if you wore it at an angle. Made of more structured or separated tulle. They could be attached via a clip or comb which could have some glamor details as well.

2.Blusher Veil: This refers to any veil that attaches at the crown of the head; typically attached with a drop pin or hairpin though sometimes not attached at all ( just draped). It is a single layer of sheer lightweight tulle & can be any length. Now it’s important to note that a blusher can be added to any veil giving them versatility ( which we’ll get into more later) but a versatility is designed to be worn with the full face covered to be revealed at the alter.

3. Elbow Length Veil: Now we’re getting into some veils that are pretty self explanatory simply because of their titles. An elbow length veil goes to roughly your elbows. It gives the “bridal veil vibe” but is a bit more playful & became popular during the 1960’s. So if you’re looking for a dash of retro could be a nice nod.

4. Finger Tip Length Veil: Can you guess? Yup! Goes to your finger tips when hands are down by your sides. It’s a bit more formal than elbow length but still versatile, easy to move & one of the most commonly chosen styles.

5. Ballet Length Veil: Take a moment & think about where a ballet skirt or how long a tutu falls? Between the knees & ankle! Still typically soft & flows. With the added length there is an added association of femininity but it’s still is not a tripping hazard or heavy.

Cathedral length veil on Virginia Bride.

6. Chapel Length Veil: A chapel length touches the ground & goes a few inches beyond to gracefully lay on the floor. It’s still light & flowy with a simple, minimal hemline. This style is more formal than the previously mentioned options but there’s still more dramatic options.

7 Cathedral Length Veil: Think of royalty! This veil adds the drama & makes any look more luxe. It trails behind the person wearing it by at least a foot or two but as you’ve seen with royal nuptials it can go back even further. The longer the train the more drama. They can also be in design. They are heavier than other options ( especially if ornately designed) & will require assistance to fluff out for photos or when making turns.

8 . Juliet Cap: Similar to the other lightweight veil options but this one is very retro. It was ultra popular during the 1920’s & immediately sends any viewer back to a time capsule. There will be fabric bunched around the crown fo the head with some sort of details & adornment on either side. A little bit may be covering the forehead as it literally “caps” the head.

Mantilla veil on Kentucky bride.

9. Mantilla : A Mantilla veil at it’s most basic is a layer of sheer tulle lined all the way around with a scalloped lace. It originated in Spain in regards to modesty in Catholic Churches. Today some people where them for modesty ( covering shoulders in a church), some for a connection to culture or Catholicism & some simply because they can add beautiful detail that has a bit of “old world” charm. Like the Cathedral veil it is a bit heavier & you may need assistance for fluffing as well as turning.

10. Double Tiered Veil: Remember the blusher from before ? And how we said some veils build in a blusher? Ta-da! That’s a double tiered veil! Referring to the visual double tier after the face is revealed when the blusher portion is moved back.

11. Drop Veil : Very similar to a blusher veil but is secured in a bit more of a pre-planned manner. A drop veil is also a sheer piece of tulle that covers the individual’s face entirely & is quiet long. It’s intentionally secured at the top of the head or around the crown to be close to the head & hairstyle. Then once the face is revealed is flows back with the rest but has minimal volume.

Phew that’s a lot! To be fair over time some morph together & others separate creating entirely new categories. I’m sure you can see the similarities between some whereas others are off marching to the beat of their own drum. Is one right or perfect or a “better choice”? NO! I think the most important factors when choosing a veil ( if you choose one) is logistics & your vibe. I don’t care if they say you should wear a short veil with a short dress … you can rock a cathedral if you want! And vice versa. Just make sure you can manage the length, ( & consequently the weight), along with evaluating does the aesthetic really fit you & your vibe . Don’t try to force a square peg into a round hole. But hey, you have options ! Now you have a starting point to explore if you are curious. Do you have a favorite?

Elbow length veil on Alabama Bride