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Can you repair a veil that's been ripped or has a hole in it? Well, it depends. We'll discuss some of the common types of veil damage and how they can be addressed.

Finding a tear or hole in your wedding veil is a moment that can induce immediate panic before your wedding day. Snags, holes and tears in wedding veils can be caused when the veil is dragged over the sharp edges of furniture, jewellery or fingernails, or even accidentally stepping on the train with bare feet or heels. Often noticing a hole or tear comes at an inopportune time, and is a common discovery when pulling out heirloom veils from storage or when borrowing a veil from a friend who had previously worn the veil to their wedding. So, can you repair a veil that’s been ripped or has a hole in it? Well, it depends on the type and extent of the damage, as well as its location. 

1. Tears and holes on a wedding veil

  • Small tears: Whether you should attempt to fix a small hole or tear depends on its location. If the tear is on the blusher which will sit over your face, any attempts to repair the tear will be visible. However, if the hole is positioned down the veil and nestled within gathers, it’s more likely to be less noticeable so delicately stitching the fabric together with invisible or very fine thread is an option to minimise the visibility of the repair. Avoid glues and instead focus your repair work with a needle and clear thread.
  • Larger tears and holes: For larger holes or tears that are caused by heels on the train or from furniture, we recommend trimming the veil from the point of the tear. Unfortunately this will dramatically reduce the length of the veil which can be a heartbreaking realisation for many brides.
  • Tears and holes close to the edge: If the hole or tear is near the edge of the veil, it may be possible to trim back the width of the veil to remove the damage. This is an effective option if your veil has a raw edge (no trim) and features a wide width.

Above: A small tear can be carefully repaired with a fine monofil transparent sewing thread. Align the fabric and stitch in a zig zag formation to close the hole. Unfortunately it will still be visible but is an option for small tears in an inconspicuous location.

Above: Where a large tear or hole is on the train or at the edge of the veil, we recommend trimming the veil from the point of the tear. Unfortunately a tear of this size is difficult to disguise. The result will be a shorter or narrower veil.

2. Detached lace or embellishments

If the lace trim or applique has come loose on your veil, they can be carefully re-stitched to the veil with invisible thread or thread that matches the colour of the veil. This requires precision to ensure the lace aligns perfectly with the existing pattern and doesn’t warp the fabric.

If beads, sequins or other embellishments are missing, replacements can often be sewn on. Finding identical or similar replacements is crucial for maintaining the veil’s original look.

3. Frayed edges on a raw edge veil

Frayed edges can be trimmed and rolled edges can be re-hemmed to give the veil a new, neat finish. Depending on the veil’s style and your preferences, this might involve a simple rolled hem or the reattachment of lace or ribbon edging.

We recommend trimming the veil with sharp tailor scissors to ensure a clean, crisp edge. Paper scissors or scissors that aren’t designed for tulle fabrics and netting will damage the veil.

4. Rips at the comb or attachment point

If the veil has torn away from the comb, it can be difficult to reattach comb if the veil itself is torn. However, it will depend on whether the veil is a drop veil (no gathers) or a gathered veil. Doing so may change how the veil sits at the top of your head, so this will depend on the location of the rip or hole.

5. General weakening or age-related damage

For older veils that have become fragile or weak, reinforcement may be necessary. This could involve adding a second layer of tulle to a gathered veil to supporting the delicate fabric.

6. Repairs may minimise the visibility of the tear but won't remove them

Tulle and netting fabrics are unforgiving, and the very nature of fine fabrics makes them difficult to successfully repair. While some types of veil damage can be repaired or disguised, the success of the repair depends on the skill of the person doing the work and the extent of the damage. For minor issues, DIY repairs might be possible, but for more serious damage, any attempts at repairs will still be visible and may take away from the beauty of your veil.

Above: The tear can be stitched together to prevent further rips, however it will still be visible.

7. Buy a new veil or consider transforming the veil into a new one

If the veil is plain, it may be possible to repair the veil by adding patches of lace appliques. This will transform the veil into an embellished veil but could be an option to disguise the hole if the veil has sentimental value to your family. In instances of large tears and holes, purchasing a new veil may be the best option if length is important to you. This may also be a good option if your wedding dress is simpler with no detailing, so as it will be difficult to disguise the damage.

If your veil is embellished at the top section of the veil (near the comb), it may be possible to trim off the veil from the point of the damage. While not ideal if you envisaged a long veil with your dress, a waltz length or fingertip veil is a flattering length that suits many dress silhouettes.

Need personalised styling advice?

We are here to guide you through the exciting journey of accessorising your wedding dress and bridal looks.

We would love to work with you to bring together your vision. Email us photos of your wedding gown, bridal hairstyle and examples of styles you love from our collection. We can then get back to you with ideas and recommendations.

SHOP READY TO SHIP VEILS

Our collection of ‘ready to ship’ wedding veils are available for domestic or international express shipping.

Knowing how to clean your wedding veil is crucial to maintaining its beauty and ensuring it lasts as a cherished keepsake.

Cleaning a wedding veil is a delicate process that requires careful attention to preserve the fabric an any embellishments. If you aren’t feeling confident or if your veil is embellished, we always recommend brides have their veil professionally cleaned as soon as possible after the wedding to remove any stains or dirt. If you wish to clean your veil yourself, we’ll share below our tips and advice on how to clean a wedding veil and to bring it back to its former glory.

Steps on how to clean a wedding veil

1. Assess the veil

Always handle the veil with clean hands to avoid transferring oils or dirt onto the fabric.

Before any cleaning can commence, it’s important to check the fabric type, any embellishments (such as beads, sequins, 3D flowers or lace), and the extent of stains or damage.  Different fabrics require different care, so it’s important to know what you’re working with. Take some time to research online how to best work with your specific fabric as synthetic fibres may respond differently to natural fibres.

If you’re unsure about cleaning your veil at home or if it has significant stains or damage, consider taking it to a professional cleaner who specialises in bridal wear.

For older or heirloom veils, professional cleaners may conduct a fibre test to ensure that the fabric can withstand the cleaning process without damage.

2. Spot clean with a gentle cleaning solution

Look for specific stains or spots that need attention, such as makeup, dirt or food stains. These stains should be targeted separately with the appropriate solution. Professionals will use specialised, gentle cleaning solutions tailored to the veil’s fabric to pre-treat and remove stains.

Generally speaking, a mild detergent mixed with luke warm water can be effective and removing most dirt stains. To do so, dip a clean, white cloth into the solution and gently dab the stained area. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain or damage and/or tear the fabric.

After treating the stain, use a separate cloth dampened with clean water to gently blot away any soap residue.

3. Hand wash the veil

Submerging a veil in water is only recommended where there are no embellishments on the veil and the veil is in good condition. This process loosens dirt and removes general grime.

  • Prepare a bath or a large basin with lukewarm clean water and add a small amount of mild detergent (such as a gentle fabric wash)
  • Gently submerge the veil in the soapy water, ensuring the comb doesn’t get wet. Wetting the comb can damage the stitching that holds the veil to the comb. Gently swirl it around to help loosen dirt without scrubbing or wringing the fabric.
  • Let the veil soak for about 15-20 minutes, giving the detergent time to work on any dirt or stains. 
  • Do not wash your veil in a washing machine, even on a gentle cycle it will rip and damage your veil.

Some veils, particularly those with intricate embellishments or made from delicate materials like silk, may be dry cleaned using a solvent-based process that is safe for fragile fabrics. Embellished veils are best left to the experts.

4. Rinse the veil

Drain the soapy water and refill the tub or basin with clean, lukewarm water. Gently rinse the veil until all soap residue is gone. You may need to rinse several times to ensure all detergent is removed to ensure the veil doesn’t yellow or degrade over time.

5. Drying the veil

Lay the veil flat on a clean, dry towel and gently roll the towel to remove excess water. Do not wring or twist the veil, as this can damage the fabric.

Unroll the towel and lay the veil flat on a new, dry towel or hang it up to air dry. Ensure the veil is away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as these can cause discolouration or damage.

6. Steaming or ironing (if needed)

If your veil has wrinkles, use a handheld steamer to gently remove them. Hold the steamer a few inches away from the fabric and move it slowly to avoid water spots.

If you don’t have a steamer, you can use an iron on the lowest heat setting with a pressing cloth between the iron and the veil. Be extremely cautious and avoid ironing over embellishments.

7. Storing the veil

Once clean and dry, store your veil in a breathable garment bag. Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and cause yellowing.

If you wish to store your veil in a box, place the veil in a breathable, archival quality box designed to protect it from light, dust and humidity. ensure the box is lined in acid-free tissue paper.

For long term preservation, professional cleaners may use additional preservation techniques, such as vacuum sealing the box to prevent air exposure or using UV-protective materials.

Need personalised styling advice?

Feel free to send us an email with photos of your wedding dress and bridal hairstyle and we would be happy to send you recommendations and ideas via email.

Every wedding gown and bride is different and the perfect accessories for you will not only depend on your gown but your personal style, vision, height and style. We love to work with our brides to create the perfect customised wedding veil that you will love to keep as an heirloom after your wedding day. We are based in Australia and ship worldwide.

We share our tips on how to safely and effectively remove creases and wrinkles from a wedding veil.

Removing creases from your wedding veil is a delicate process that requires time, patience and the right tools. It’s not uncommon for creases and wrinkles to appear on a veil, especially if the veil has been stored for a while. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure your veil looks pristine and elegant as you walk down the aisle. Remember, always handle your veil with care and give yourself enough time before the wedding day to address any wrinkles. 

Step 1: Assess the fabric

Before you start working on the creases, it’s important to understand the type of fabric your veil is made of. Veils are typically made from delicate materials like tulle and lace, but sometimes they are made from chiffon or organza. These fabrics are often made from man-made fibres so are sensitive to heat and can melt under high heat.

  • Tulle and lace: These fabrics are delicate and can be sensitive to heat, so they require gentle handling.
  • Chiffon and organza: These are slightly more resilient but still need careful attention to avoid damage.

Step 2: Hang your veil

The easiest and most effective way to remove minor creases is to hang the veil.

  • Hang it up: Find a clean, dry, and well-ventilated area to hang your veil. Use a padded hanger to avoid creating new creases or indentations.
  • Let gravity do it’s work: Allow gravity to naturally pull the creases out over time. This method can take a few days, so it’s best to hang your veil up at least a week before the wedding.

Step 3: A steamer is your friend

If your veil still has wrinkles after hanging, a steamer can help smooth them out.

  • Choose a gentle steamer: Use a hand-held fabric steamer that allows you to control the intensity of the steam. Avoid using an iron directly on the veil, as this can cause damage or create new creases.
  • Steam from a distance: Hold the steamer about 15-30cm (6-12 inches) away from the veil to avoid direct contact. Gently move the steamer back and forth, allowing the steam to relax the fibres and remove wrinkles.
  • Work in sections: Start from the top and work your way down, focusing on one section at a time to ensure even steaming.

Step 4: Use steam from your bathroom

If you don’t have a steamer, you can use your bathroom to create a similar effect.

  • Run a hot shower: Turn on the shower and let the bathroom fill with steam. Make sure the water does not directly touch the veil.
  • Hang the veil: Hang your veil in the bathroom, away from direct water contact but close enough to benefit from the steam.
  • Leave for 15-20 minutes: Allow the veil to hang in the steamy bathroom for about 15-20 minutes. The steam will help relax the fabric and smooth out the creases.
  • Check the veil: After steaming, check the veil for any remaining wrinkles and repeat the process if necessary.

Step 5: Use a low-heat iron (only if absolutely necessary)

If the veil still has stubborn creases and you are confident in your ability, you can carefully use a low-heat iron in an inconspicuous place as a test patch.

  • Set the iron: Set the iron to the lowest possible setting, suitable for delicate fabrics. Use a pressing cloth between the iron and the veil to protect the fabric.
  • Iron gently: Gently press the iron over the veil with minimal press, focusing on one small section at a time. Avoid sweeping motions where the fabric gets pulled. Also avoid using steam unless you’re confident the fabric can handle it.
  • Avoid lace and embellishments: Never iron directly over lace, beading or other embellishments, as this can damage them.

Step 6: Final touches

Once you’ve removed the creases, it’s important to ensure your veil stays wrinkle-free until the big day.

  • Store carefully: If you need to store the veil after removing creases, hang it in a garment bag to protect it from dust and potential new wrinkles.
  • Transporting the veil: When transporting your veil to the wedding venue, keep it in a hanging garment bag. If it needs to be folded, do so carefully and re-hang it as soon as possible upon arrival.

Need personalised styling advice?

Feel free to send us an email with photos of your wedding dress and bridal hairstyle and we would be happy to send you recommendations and ideas via email.

Every wedding gown and bride is different and the perfect accessories for you will not only depend on your gown but your personal style, vision, height and style. We love to work with our brides to create the perfect veil that you will love to keep as an heirloom after your wedding day. We are based in Australia and ship worldwide.

Taking proper care of your wedding veil is essential to preserve its beauty and quality, for your wedding day and beyond.

From the moment you purchase or receive your wedding veil to the day you store it after the wedding, there are several important steps to follow to ensure your veil will remain pristine and beautiful for years to come. The abundance of material and delicate nature of a wedding veil is part of its beauty. However, this also means it requires extra special care when steaming, storing, transporting and cleaning them before and after your wedding day.

In this post, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on how to care for your wedding veil and to keep it in perfect condition for your wedding day and beyond.

1. How to handle a wedding veil

Wedding veils are often made from delicate fine fabrics such as tulle, lace, organza and silk fabrics. These materials require extra gentle handling to avoid snags, tears and general damage.

If you have ordered your veil direct from us, it will arrive beautifully and safely packaged in a gift box for you to unravel. Always handle your veil with clean, dry hands to prevent transferring oils, dirt, lotions or makeup on to the fabric and embellishments.  

Be mindful of sharp objects near your veil such as jewellery, zippers, rough fingernails or other objects that could catch and damage the veil’s delicate material.

2. How to store a wedding veil before the wedding

Once you have unboxed your veil, we recommend you hang it up straight away on the clip provided with your veil. This will help avoid creases and wrinkles. 

Store your veil in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This could be the corner of a spare room or in your wardrobe.  Avoid storing your veil in plastic bags or boxes as they can trap moisture and cause mildew or fabric deterioration.

You can also hang a veil in a garment bag to protect it from dust, but we recommend that the garment bag is made from breathable fabric and is long enough to accommodate a longer veil.

If your veil is made from lace or features intricate beading, consider storing your veil in a flat box, cushioned with acid-free tissue paper to prevent the fabric and embellishments from becoming misshapen or damaged. 

Remember to keep the box your veil came in and to store it wrapped in acid-free tissue paper, as you can use this to transport your veil and store it in after your wedding date.

Keep your veil in a safe place away from animals and loose fur. If your veil is extra long, ensure the train is safely tucked away so it doesn’t get stepped on or caught under wardrobe doors.

3. How to remove creases from a wedding veil

The best way to handle creases on a veil is to prevent them. When folding your veil, try to fold your veil lightly and avoid excessive pressure to prevent heavy creasing.

To remove creases, steam is your best friend. With steam, gravity and a bit of time, the creases will drop out. Hang up your veil and gently apply steam to it using a garment steamer or hang it in the bathroom during a hot shower.

If you don’t have access to a garment steamer, your wedding dress alterations professional or local dry cleaner may have be able to steam your veil for you.

Once steamed your veil will feel a little damp so it’s best to keep the veil on its hanger to allow your veil to dry and to minimise future creases before your wedding day.

We do not recommend ironing your veil as incorrect temperatures may melt and discolour your veil.

4. How to transport a wedding veil

Whether it’s a dress fitting, a hair trial or a trip to a destination wedding location, at some stage you may need to safely transport your veil. We recommend that you refold your veil and place it back in its box.

To refold your veil, follow these steps.

  1. First, find a flat surface like a dining table or a hallway
  2. Lay the veil on tissue paper lengthwise. The paper will support the netting between folds and it’s important to use white, acid-free tissue paper as this won’t damage or discolour the tulle over time
  3. Smooth out the veil
  4. Fold in the veil crosswise
  5. Tape to secure
  6. Gently fold the veil to fit in the box

5. How to wear and remove your wedding veil

Your veil is a key part of your bridal look so wearing and removing it with care is crucial. We recommend you work with your hairstylist to ensure your veil is securely fastened. Depending on the veil style, they may use bobby pins or clips to ensure it feels comfortable and secure. 

Removing the veil with careful is also important. Practice removing it before the wedding day. Have a trusted friend or family member assist you in removing the veil after the ceremony. Gently unfasten it and remove any pins or clips, taking care not to pull or tug on the fabric.

6. How to care for an embellished veil

The embellishments applied to our wedding veils are applied by hand. If cared for properly, your veil will last for many years to come. For veils featuring 3D florals, we highly recommend ensuring you do not place heavy objects or firmly fold up the veil as this can crush the florals and distort its appearance.

If you need to spot clean around an embellishment, avoid rough handling near an embellishment as vigorous rubbing can damage or lift embellishments.

7. Can you wash a wedding veil?

As tempting as it might be to throw your wedding veil into a washing machine, please avoid the temptation! If your veil is marked, avoid the washing machine and avoid the temptation to soak it in water. Your veil can be spot cleaned with a damp cloth or baby wipes with dabbing movements.

Always be mindful to handle your veil with clean hands and be conscious of contact with your makeup.  To remove pet hair or lint, we recommend using sticky tape or a lint roller.

8. Managing different types of veil fabrics

Wedding veils are made from a range of delicate fabrics and nettings. They are commonly made from synthetic materials such as nylon or polyester and can also be made from natural fibres including silk. Vintage veils were often made from cotton and silk fibres so are prone to discolouration and deterioration overtime due to sunlight, insects/bugs and heat.

It is important to consider the fibres of your veil when thinking about how to best care for it. A veil made from nylon is more durable than silk however it is less resistant to heat so can melt under high temperatures. A silk veil is best stored folded as over time gravity will impact the fibres/weave and will distort its shape.

The Victoria and Albert Museum in the UK have a helpful guide on caring for and restoring vintage wedding dresses and veils: https://www.vam.ac.uk/articles/caring-for-vintage-wedding-dresses-veils

With proper love and care, your wedding veil will become a beautiful heirloom for you to pass on to your daughters, sisters or dear friend.

Need personalised styling advice?

We are here to guide you through the exciting journey of accessorising your wedding dress and bridal looks.

We would love to work with you to bring together your vision. Email us photos of your wedding gown, bridal hairstyle and examples of styles you love from our collection. We can then get back to you with ideas and recommendations.

Your bridal jewellery is not just an accessory; it’s a symbol of the one of the most important days of your life. Whether it’s a stunning pair of earrings, a delicate necklace or a cherished heirloom, your bridal jewellery holds sentimental value and deserves the utmost care. To keep your pieces sparkling and beautiful for years to come, follow these essential tips on how to care for your bridal jewellery.

1. Clean your jewellery regularly

Keeping your bridal jewellery clean is crucial for maintaining its shine and brilliance. Here’s how to do it safely:

  • Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe your jewellery after each wear. This removes oils, sweat and makeup that can dull the surface.
  • For a deeper clean, mix a few drops of mild dish soap with lukewarm water. Soak your jewellery for a few minutes, then gently scrub with a soft toothbrush. Rinse with clean water and pat dry with a soft cloth. If your jewellery features pearls, do not submerge your jewellery into water as this can damage the pearls and weaken the silk thread and attachment.
  • Steer clear of using bleach, ammonia or other harsh chemicals, as they can damage metal and stones. 

2. Store your jewellery properly

How you store your bridal jewellery can make a significant difference in its longevity:

  • Store each piece of jewellery separately to avoid scratches and tangling. Velvet lined jewellery boxes with individual compartments are ideal.
  • If you don’t have a jewellery box, soft pouches made from cotton or soft fabric can protect your pieces from damage.
  • Keep your jewellery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. High humidity can cause tarnishing, especially for silver pieces.
  • For pearl jewellery, store them flat to prevent the strand from stretching over time. Pearls are delicate and can be damaged by excessive pressure.

3. Wear your jewellery with care

On your wedding day and whenever you wear your bridal jewellery afterward, it’s important to handle it with care:

  • Make your jewellery the last thing you put on after getting dressed and the first thing you take off when undressing. This minimises exposure to makeup, perfume, hairspray and lotions that can tarnish or damage your jewellery.
  • Be mindful of rough surfaces that can scratch your jewellery. Remove your rings, bracelets and other pieces when engaging in activities that could cause damage.
  • If your bridal jewellery includes pearls or opals, remember that these stones are softer and more prone to scratching. Treat them with extra care and avoid contact with abrasive materials.

4. Mindful storage during travel

When travelling with your bridal jewellery, take extra precautions to keep it safe:

  • Keep your bridal jewellery in its original box if possible to protect your pieces from bumps and scratches.
  • Always carry your bridal jewellery in your hand luggage rather than checking it in. This ensures it stays with you and reduces the risk of loss or damage.
  • Consider only taking the essential pieces on your trip to minimise the risk of losing or damaging your valuable items.

Do you need personalised styling advice?

Every wedding gown and bride is different and the perfect accessories for you will not only depend on your gown but your personal style, vision, height and hairstyle. We love to work with our brides to create the perfect veil that you will love to keep as an heirloom after your wedding day. Get in touch with us – we would love to hear from you!

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