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An Evening in Florence

Thinking about a bold and breathtaking wedding veil to elevate your wedding dress? Express yourself with timeless ease with these tips from our bridal veil designer, Tania Maras.

It’s fair to say, when it comes to wedding accessories, very few pieces can rival the transformative power of a wedding veil. While simple and classic veils will always have their place down the aisle, a plain veil isn’t for every bride. If you’re thinking about taking your bridal look to new heights, a high impact wedding veil makes a bold statement while still exuding elegance and classic appeal. The key is to consider the details of your dress, deciding what you want to accentuate or minimise, and balancing focal points to ensure your veil adds to, and doesn’t take away, from you and your dress.

Unexpected and unique details

High impact wedding veils are all about drama, grandeur and an undeniable X factor. The right veil for you will captivate and delight without taking away from you or the beauty of your wedding dress. It’s not always the length of a veil that achieves a bold look. Short and chic veils can be just as breathtaking and dramatic. Finding that special something to add an element of unexpected interest is the key – it could be a unique and fresh silhouette, awe-inspiring fine details or an unconventional take on a classic such as an oversized bow or a dramatically shorter blusher that might be just the thing to elevate your look.

1. Play with wedding veil lengths

It’s undeniable how impactful an impressive length can be on a wedding veil. Chapel veils, cathedral veils or regal cathedral length veils will sweep the floor and extend well beyond the train of your gown.  Take a cathedral length veil up a notch with the striking visual effect of cascading lace or flowers, and you will turn heads as you walk down the aisle.

Equally impressive is a short wedding veil, from cropped blusher veils that frame the face to waist length and mid length veils that accentuate your waistline. Play with volume to compensate for the shorter length, which has the added bonus of elongating your silhouette and drawing the eyes upwards.

2. Embellished wedding veils

Embellishments on a wedding veil can take many forms. From a light scattering around the head and shoulders to an all-over look, you can transform the look of a simple wedding dress with the right embellishments. We recommend our brides consider the amount of coverage they may be after (for example, religious requirements for a church wedding) or any details on their dress they don’t want to cover, such as a statement back. 

When it comes to embellished veils, it’s all about attention to detail, quality materials and balance. Poor quality trims and embellishments will take away from your dress and your overall look, so it’s important to find a bridal veil designer experienced in artisan techniques.

At Tania Maras, my team and I believe beauty is in the details and we only work with the highest quality fabrics and materials. Our veil collection showcases the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into each and every one of our designs. 

3. Go bold with unique trims

The silhouette of a veil is critically important to creating a veil that perfectly frames your dress. The right edging and trims play a crucial role in defining the look of a high impact wedding veil as it will accentuate the silhouette of the veil and your train.

We love to add a bold lace trim, an ornate border or a dramatic scalloped edge to a veil to add an extra layer of opulence and drama. Whether it’s a mantilla-style lace veil or an all-over design, intricate patterns and textures create a captivating focal point and will beautifully frame you.

4. Dare to be different with coloured wedding veils

A coloured wedding veil is all about expression, adding a pop of personality to your look and expressing your style. The key is to choose colours that feel elegant, feminine and refined, and capture the essence of the rest of your wedding look.

We love to work with shades of pink, champagne, blush, blues and even black to create a stunning contrast to your gown.  

Explore our collection of Botanica wedding veils that were inspired by an enchanted garden and feature a rich spectrum of colour.

5. Dramatic bridal capes

For brides looking for an alternative to a traditional wedding veil, a bridal cape might be the perfect piece for you. Bridal capes and long wedding scarves will frame your wedding dress, shoulders and neckline. Modern, bold and expressive, a bridal cape can be customised in many ways to suit you and your dress. If you’re unsure how to best approach choosing a cape veil for you, contact us and we would love to offer recommendations and styling advice.

6. Combine bridal styles

You can elevate a simple wedding veil with breathtaking details and embellishments.  Combine a classic simple veil with a dramatic vintage-inspired headpiece or effortlessly mix floral elements on a minimalist veil by focusing the embellishment at the top half of your veil to frame your neckline and back. 

Need personalised styling help?

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 would love to work with you to bring your vision to life and to create a truly one-of-a-kind piece. Email us with photos of your wedding gown and share details of your personal style. We will then get back to you with ideas to begin the beautiful journey of bespoke.

SHOP NEW ARRIVALS

Discover unique handcrafted wedding veils; customisable to suit you and your wedding dress.

A Juliet cap veil beautifully blends old-world charm with contemporary elegance, making it ideal for modern romantic brides.

Juliet cap veils play an important part in styling your vintage-inspired bridal look. From the wedding dress to the bouquet, each element of your look can set the mood of your event. The accessories you choose to complete your dress should make a statement: the wedding veil especially as it frames you from your head to your toes.  For modern romantics looking for a nod to the past, juliet cap veils are a striking piece to add modern day glamour to even the simplest wedding dress.

Above: HARRIET Juliet cap and detachable veil, Bespoke juliet cap veil with pearls for Lauren

Juliet cap veils in history

It is believed the juliet cap veil derives its name from the iconic Shakespearean character, Juliet, in the original “Romeo and Juliet”. This delicate headpiece and veil style was popularised in the early 20th century and became a symbol of grace and femininity. The unique design features a small, close-fitting cap that adorns the head, graced with lace, embroidery and hand beading. To finish the look, a soft sheer veil is attached to cascade down the bride’s shoulders and onto the dress.

The style has been worn throughout the decades by modern muses including Jackie Onassis Kennedy, Grace Kelly and Kate Moss as seen below.

Above: Grace Kelly, Jackie Onassis Kennedy, Kate Moss

Modern juliet cap veils

We have a seen a resurgence of this veil style over the years. The juliet cap veil has evolved, as with any timeless bridal accessory, and our collection of veils has been adapted to cater to contemporary tastes. We love to experiment with different materials, embellishments and cap styles allowing our brides to capture an element of the past whilst embracing their femininity.

Above: LADY LAUREL juliet cap veil

Timeless and versatile

There is so much to love about a juliet cap veil that beautifully frames the face and hairline. It combines a headpiece with a veil and can be made in varying lengths to suit your height and dress style. Whether your vision is bold and dramatic or soft and simple, we can design a cap veil to align with your vision.

Above: CARMEN juliet cap veil

Fall in love with juliet cap veils

We have pulled together a few more beautiful juliet cap veils from the collection that are a testament to the enduring appeal of this vintage-inspired accessory. We design and handcraft all veils in-house so we are able to modify the design, details and lengths to suit you and your wedding gown.

Above: MAGNOLIA juliet cap veil

Above: AUGUSTINE juliet cap veil

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.

SHOP JULIET CAP VEILS

Customisable to suit you and your wedding dress, discover exquisite Juliet cap veils to finish your bridal look.

Elegance knows no height; style isn't measured in inches.

Finding the right veil for any bride is about highlight proportions and capturing the individuality of each bride. When it comes to petite brides, balancing proportions is important however, there are many lengths and styles that work beautifully with petite proportions. We believe the key to wedding veils for short brides is to look for a veil that’s sheer and light. Yes, that’s correct – you don’t have to settle for an elbow length veil if you want more length to your look!

1. Consider the shape of the veil rather than just veil length

A bride on the shorter side can wear a veil of any length depending on the style of her dress. An elbow, fingertip, chapel or cathedral length veil will all work beautifully. In our experience, the biggest issue is often shape rather than length.

The shape of a veil is created by the way the veil has been cut but also the amount of gathers on the veil. A heavily gathered veil appears full, voluminous and very puffy but this can have the effect of cutting you in half if the veil length ends at the elbow or fingertip. Similarly, a heavily gathered long veil with a gathered blusher will swallow your silhouette and conceal your frame and wedding gown.

We recommend veils at any length that feel lightweight due to their sheerness. By keeping your veil as sheer as possible, this will let your silhouette and dress show through.

Shop this look: MIRA chapel veil, THEODORE pearl veil, CALLA LILY veil, CHIARA pink wedding veil, ORCHID wedding veil, GARDENIA wedding veil, FLORENCE wedding veil 

2. Chapel and cathedral wedding veils look beautiful on short brides

Wedding veils for shorter brides aren’t limited to cropped elbow length veils. You can adorn your wedding dress with a long and dramatic veil.  The caveat is to look for a veil with minimal gathers and soft or straight lines to elongate your silhouette.

Rather than a heavily gathered veil, look for a veil with medium to light gathering as this will appear effortless and romantic without the bulk.

Our AUDREY, WYNTER and CALLA LILY veils are beautiful examples of veils which feel glamorous yet lightweight. The perfect finishing touches to let your dress and silhouette show through.

Shop this look: WYNTER at custom length, MIRA veil, MARAIS veil

3. Embellished wedding veils for short brides

Petite brides don’t need to settle for plain veils either. However, a heavy lace trim around the edge of your veil is likely to weigh down your look.

A veil that has been embellished in the right way can draw the eyes upwards and elongate your frame. Think light details at the crown and face that slowly trickle down onto your shoulders. Our favourite styles include the CARMEN and THEODORE veils. Ensure the details don’t stop at the halfway point of your height as this will have the effect of cutting your torso in half.

Keeping embellishments light and focused from the waist up will lift your look rather than weight it down.

Shop this look: CARMEN veil

4. We love elbow length veils for petite brides

A common piece of advice is to stick to elbow length veils if you’re a petite bride. An elbow length veil is very flattering for petite brides as it frames one third of your length which draws the eyes upwards. Keep the gathers to a minimum – a heavily gathered elbow length veil will draw the eyes to your mid section which may have the effect of cutting you in half.

If you’re looking for a two-tier veil, opt for a drop veil (no gathers) and ensure your blusher layer falls to the inside of your elbows to keep the overall appearance light and floaty. A classic drop veil with a cropped elbow length blusher will be a beautiful addition to your look.

Shop this look: WEEPING CHERRY veil, AVA elbow veil, ROSELLA veil with elbow length blusher

5. Choose a fingertip veil that can be customised for your height

A fingertip veil is a go-to length for all heights. This veil style falls to the length of your fingertips which passes the half way point of your torso. We recommend light to medium gathers for this style also as a heavily gathered fingertip veil can add bulk at a level that will drag the eyes downwards.

As the name suggests, a fingertip veil falls to the fingertips. As we are all different heights, the standard length might be too long. Be sure to order a short or mid-length veil that has been customised for your height. A fingertip veil on a 5″ bride will look very different on a 6″ bride as your proportions will differ.

If you’re looking for a two-tier veil, opt for a drop veil (no gathers) and ensure your blusher layer falls to the inside of your elbows to keep the overall appearance light and floaty. A classic drop veil with a cropped elbow length blusher will be a beautiful addition to your look.

Shop this look: BLAIR wedding veil

6. Looking for a blusher layer? Choose an elbow length blusher

To keep the look light and floaty, we recommend that the blusher layer fall to your elbow. Grab a tape measure and measure from where you intend to secure the comb in your hair, over your face and down to your elbow. This measurement will be a flattering length for your proportions if you would like a two-tier veil.

We design and handcraft all our veils in-house so we will be sure to take into account your height, hairstyle and dress length details when we create your wedding veil.

Need personalised stying help?

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.

SHOP WEDDING VEILS FOR PETITE BRIDES

Customisable to suit your height, bridal hairstyle and wedding dress.

A bridal cape is the ultimate style statement. You'll be set to make a grande entrance on your wedding day.

A bridal cape is a unique and beautiful addition to elevate your wedding dress. Whether your wedding gown is simple and sleek or features detailed embroidery or lacework, there is a bridal cape for almost every gown. From long and flowing detachable panels that secure at your shoulder straps to a delicate and sheer cape that hug your shoulders and covers your back and arms, bridal capes are the perfect option when you don’t want to wear a veil.

When choosing a bridal cape, the key is to find a piece that complements your overall look and enhances your wedding day style. We have pulled together our top tips we recommend to our brides when it comes to selecting this high style bridal accessory.

1. Consider the theme of your wedding

  • Consider your dress: The right cape for you will complement the style of your wedding dress. Whether your dress is modern, vintage, classic or bohemian in style, your cape should harmonise with its design and fabric.
  • Wedding theme and venue: The overall theme of your wedding and venue will be an important consideration when choosing your wedding cape.  A dramatic, floor length cape will be perfect for a spacious formal event. A shorter cape will be more suitable for a garden or intimate wedding.

Photography by Lindsay Brunk | Bride Alex wears our DRAPED IN FLOWERS cape

SHOP THIS LOOK: Draped in Flowers bridal cape

2. Material and fabric are important

  • Fabric choice: The right cape for your dress should match or complement the fabric of the dress. Commonly, bridal capes are made from fine laces, tulle, chiffon and crepe and velvet, each offering a different look and feel.
  • Weather and season: Lighter fabrics are ideal for warmer seasons, however, depending on the embellishments, they can offer some coverage where lacework or florals are added.

3. Talk to your bridal accessories designer about the right design and length for you

  • Cape length: Consider your dress style, your height and the amount of drama you wish to create when choosing your cape length. Flattering lengths include fingertip and floor lengths.
  • Cape design: Talk to your bridal accessories designer about the right design for you. This will depend on the neckline and straps of your gown, the aesthetic you are after and the level of coverage you wish to achieve. Our capes can be modified into watteau style, draped cowl backs, bridal wings or bridal capes that hug that shoulders. We are available via email, Live Chat and socials to help you choose the right accessories for your bridal look.

SHOP THIS LOOK: SWAY bridal cape

4. Elevate your wedding cape with embellishments and fine details

  • Embellishments: Your bridal cape should enhance your wedding dress and accentuate any details it may have. Embellishments can be subtle or dramatic, the world is your oyster.
  • Colour: Choosing a cape in the right colour is important to ensure a cohesive and balanced look. Very few wedding dresses are actually white so be sure to find a cape that’s a complementary tone.

Photography by Love Is Rad Co | Bride Ali wears our DRAPED IN FLOWERS cape

5. Your bridal cape should be practical and comfortable

  • Ease of movement: Your cape should be designed in a way so that it’s well secured, particularly if you wish to wear it for both your ceremony and reception,
  • Attachment and fit: It’s important to chat to your bridal accessories designer about attachments. It should be easy for you and your bridal party to remove the cape when necessary.

6. When in doubt, choose a custom bridal cape that has been designed with you in mind

Are you unsure which bridal cape would best suit your dress? We would love to work with you to create a custom cape that complements the silhouette, length and style of your dress.

Here are some examples of some recent capes we have created for our beautiful brides. Some of these capes bring together our favourite styles from our collection. Others were modifications of existing styles to suit our brides.

Need personalised styling help?

Every wedding gown is different and the perfect accessories for you will not only depend on your gown but your personal style, vision and style. We love to work with our brides to create bridal capes that you will love to keep as an heirloom after your wedding day.

We are based in Australia and ship worldwide.

SHOP WEDDING CAPES

Discover our collection of custom wedding capes, customisable to suit you and your wedding dress.

Wondering how to stop your wedding veil from falling out?

The trick to make your wedding veil stay in place is simple. You’ll just need some bobby pins and a little preparation.

Many brides ask us whether they can wear a veil with loose hair on their wedding day. The answer is yes! You will just need to create a solid base for your veil comb and this can be achieved with bobby pins, small elastics or a tiny braid hidden underneath your hair for a neat finish.

If you’re planning a bridal updo or a half up bridal hairstyle, you will already have a solid foundation to secure your veil. All you will need is some bobby pins to cross over the teeth of your veil comb.

Follow the steps below if you’re planning to wear loose curls and a veil on your wedding day. These tips will ensure your veil stays in place all day and into the evening festivities.

1. Section off the top area of your hair at the crown

By sectioning off the top area of your hair at the crown, you will reveal the perfect section to create a solid foundation to secure your veil under your hair. Once you’ve clipped the top section so it’s out of the way, use some bobby pins to create an X under the hair. You could also try small ponytails using fine elastics or a small horizontal braid, depending on your hair texture and thickness.

2. Lower the raised section of hair to cover your prep work

Remove the clip from the top of your head to cover the prep work you just created. Position your veil comb into your hair. Ensure the teeth of the veil comb slot behind the X formation, small ponytails or small braid.

The third image below shows how the bobby pins should cross over the teeth of the comb when positioned in your hair.

3. Use bobby pins on each side of the veil comb to secure your veil

Ensure the bobby pins are a similar shade to your hair colour and are neatly tucked beneath the hair and cross over the teeth of the veil comb for a secure hold.

Bridal styling advice and tips

  • Veils attached to small or extra wide metal combs can be secured in the same way.
  • If your veil comb is made from plastic, you may need extra bobby pins or small alligator clips to secure the veil. We recommend veils on metal combs only as they won’t break and are more flexible compared to plastic veil combs.
  • This technique can be used for hair pins, halos, bridal hair combs and similar accessories.
  • If you’re looking to change your hair accessories during the course of your wedding day (i.e. remove your wedding veil after the ceremony), be sure to take notes on how the comb was been secured so you don’t mess up your bridal hairstyle trying to remove it. Ask your bridesmaids for help looking for the bobby pins before the comb is pulled out.

Need help?

Your hairstylist will be able to offer you advice and recommendations based on your hair type, bridal hairstyle and your vision for your accessories. There are a number of different hair fasteners that are designed specifically for these situations.  For example, snap clips that are often used to secure hair extensions can also be sewn under a headpiece too. We can customise our wedding veils onto different attachments to suit your bridal hairstyle and hairstylist’s recommendations.

SHOP WEDDING VEILS

Explore beautiful wedding veils that can be customised to suit you and your wedding dress.

A cathedral veil is a nod to tradition and acts as an extension of your wedding dress.

The mother of all wedding veils – cathedral veils – offer a regal formality and sophistication like no other length of veil. As you can guess from the name, cathedral length wedding veils are designed to be worn in a cathedral style church or a similarly grand setting where the aisle is long and wide and your wedding dress and veil will be on full display.

If you’re now planning a smaller wedding or you’ve moved your church wedding to the outdoors, a cathedral veil can still be worn. Just ensure your aisle is wide enough to accommodate the length of your veil and drape the veil over your forearm to keep it off the ground as you move around for your bridal photos.

Not all veils are created equal and there’s no standard ‘cathedral veil’. They come in various lengths and widths, fabrics and cuts. Let’s explore our favourite veil style below:

1. If you want to make a statement, this is your go-to veil

A cathedral veil feels more dramatic than a classic chapel veil.  Its sweeping train will glide effortlessly across the floor as you walk down the aisle. In fact, it’s fair to say that your veil will be what your guests will notice as you stand at the altar with your back to them.

Not planning a church wedding? No worries. Many brides have worn cathedral veils on mountain tops, by the sea or in an enchanted garden. The extra length can add the perfect amount of drama to more relaxed settings and will create impressive images you will love to share for years to come.

A cathedral veil acts as an extension of your dress so a beautiful lace trim or embellishments will be a striking focal point that will pull together your bridal look.

2. Consider whether it will be practical for your wedding venue

A 3-4 metre long veil may not be the most practical wedding accessory if you’re planning a beach wedding, a backyard gathering or a small intimate wedding in a restaurant or a quiet park.

However, if you have already purchased a long cathedral veil and now find yourself planning a smaller wedding due to COVID-19, you can manage the length of the veil by draping it over your arm to keep it off the ground.

Alternatively, if your veil is free from embellishments and your dress length allows for it, consider having your cathedral veil trimmed back to chapel length which might feel better suited for the occasion.  Floor length veils are often cut to 180cm and chapel length veils are generally cut from 230cm. These lengths might feel more suitable for modest venues and locations.

3. A cathedral length veil is generally for the ceremony only

If you’re worried about your partner tripping or falling onto your veil during the bridal waltz, keep in mind that your cathedral veil is worn for the ceremony and wedding photos only.  Your bridesmaids would have already removed your veil and packed it away safely.

A lot of our brides will pair their wedding veil with a headpiece or tiara, so that when they remove their wedding veil, their hair still looks beautifully adorned and complete.

4. Ensure your wedding hairstyle can support your cathedral veil

A cathedral length veil isn’t necessarily heavy. But depending on the cut and fabric of your veil, it can be quite tricky to manoeuvre if you’re weaving between guests or hopping in and out of cars.  You will need to ensure your wedding hairstyle is strong and stable enough to support the weight and length of your veil.

A cathedral veil will need to be reinforced in your hair. This will prevent it from falling out if someone accidentally steps on it or the wild winds try to blow it out of your hair.

5. Single tier versus 2 tier veil?

It’s a very common question – what looks best with my wedding dress? A single tier veil or a veil with a blusher layer?

Our response depends a lot on the dress, the venue, the personal style of our bride, cultural considerations, and of course, the vision of our bride and groom.

For a lot of brides, a veil isn’t a veil without the blusher layer. The ‘lift and kiss’ is what the veil is all about. In fact, we have worked with quite a few brides who personally don’t like the idea of a blusher layer but they know that their partner has always dreamed about lifting the veil to reveal their wife so taking that away from them is something they wouldn’t dare to do.

For some brides, the blusher layer has cultural significance and is also a religious requirement. For Christian or church wedding, covering the face and shoulders is important to show respect.

When it comes to the dress itself and recommending single tier vs 2 tier veils, we like to look at the lines of the dress, the style of the gown and general proportions. A statement veil is the perfect finishing touch to accentuate the lines of the dress as it creates a beautiful silhouette.

6. Cathedral veils can vary in length

Generally speaking, a cathedral wedding veil starts from 300cm or 118 inches long. But it can vary between designers. This is a fairly standard length but some wedding dresses with significance trains might be better suited to regal or royal cathedral veils.

A regal or royal cathedral veil can be cut to 450cm or  180 inches. This length is only recommended if you’re planning to wed in a large cathedral.

And of course, wedding veils are completely customisable so if you’re looking for a veil that’s somewhere in between these measurements, do get in touch as we can certainly accommodate. All chapel veils in our collection can be made in cathedral lengths.

7. Longer veils aren't necessarily wider

A 3-4 metre long veil isn’t necessarily double the width of a standard veil. The width depends a lot on the style of the veil itself. I.e. whether it’s a full and gathered veil with generous amounts of volume at the comb, or whether it’s more clean and modern, such a drop veil which features no gathers or volume.

It is possible to achieve a modern and minimalist look and feel but still have the grandeur of a cathedral length veil. Our favourite veil to customise is our AUDREY veil in this instance. As you can see with the AUDREY veil below, a simple wedding veil can look just as dramatic as a 2 tier gathered veil.

It’s important to take into account the proportions and style of your wedding dress when deciding on the best length and width.

8. If you've fallen out of love with your wedding dress, a cathedral veil can add a touch of magic to your bridal look

Sometimes we’ll work with a bride who has fallen out of love with their wedding dress. They may have loved the simplicity of their dress 12-18 months ago when she first tried it on but when she picked it up from the bridal boutique, it just didn’t wow her anymore.

The good news is if the dress fits, there’s many ways to fall back in love with the dress. Often this is through finding the right accessories.

An extra wide and long wedding veil can create a dramatic silhouette for a dress that might be on the simpler side. It can also be handcrafted with beautiful embellishments such as pearl or crystal elements for a look that’s glamorous and luxurious.

9. You don't need to find a 3-4 metre tape measure

It can be hard to find long measuring tape. Try using a long piece of ribbon, string or yarn instead and then measure that piece of string against a ruler or tape measure. You might also find it easier to measure it in sections – a section from the head to the bottom of the dress and then a separate section from the bottom of the dress to where you’d like your veil to end.

How do you measure for a veil?

  1. Grab a measuring tape (ribbon, string or yard) and wear your wedding shoes, if you have them handy.
  2. Start the measurement where the top of the veil will sit. If you’re wearing a mantilla style veil, that will be at the top of your head. The position of the veil comb will depend of your hairstyle – usually secured at the crown or under or below your updo.
  3. Now let go of that tape and measure roughly where you would like that train to end.

Need personalised styling help?

If you aren’t sure what length veil will best suit you and your wedding dress, do get in touch. Please send us photos via our contact page of your wedding dress, your height and heel height measurement and we’d be happy to offer some advice and recommendations.

We'll discuss what to consider when choosing a birdcage veil for your wedding day. The subtle differences between birdcage veils impact how they look and feel.

It sometimes feels like there are just as many birdcage veils on the market as there are white t-shirts.  Figuring out how to choose a birdcage veil can be tricky when the options are endless. From short angled veils that are perfect for mid length vintage dresses to more modern cage veils for sleek silhouettes, there is a style for almost every dress. You may have also heard different names used to describe this veil style: a blusher veil, cage veil, bandeau veil, angle veil, wedge veil or a venetian veil. Other names include Russian, French or English Merry Widow birdcage veils.

Not all birdcage veils are created equal and the variations impact how they can sit, feel and look when positioned in your hair. The key differences relate to how the veil is cut and shaped, the width of the veil, the type of netting and where the gathering is placed. All of these details will impact how it moulds around your face and the aesthetic it creates.

The right veil for you will depend on a number of factors. It’s important to consider your bridal hairstyle, face shape, dress style and embellishments.

1. Consider the style of your wedding dress when choosing a birdcage veil

The style of your wedding dress is the first thing to consider when choosing a birdcage veil.  A birdcage veil is a defining accessory so it will set the tone for the mood you wish to capture.

  • Short wedding dresses: A vintage-inspired tea dress or a mini dress pairs best with shorter birdcage veils at 9 inches wide. Your birdcage veil should be proportional to the shape and length of your skirt. A short dress and a bigger birdcage veil may look top heavy, disproportionate and unbalanced.
  • Playsuits and wide leg pants:  This ultra chic look can be styled with short or large birdcage veils ranging from 9 inches to 18 inches. The best size will depend on the shape and width of the pant leg. A cigarette pant that’s narrow at the ankle will style better with a shorter veil or a sheer veil made from bridal illusion tulle. A wide leg pant can be styled with a larger or smaller birdcage veil.
  • Traditional wedding gowns: A birdcage veil is a beautiful way to capture the mood of your look. If you wish to capture vintage vibes or maybe you wish to create a contemporary mood, the style of your birdcage veil is important. Factor in the neckline of your dress and the size and shape of your skirt so your birdcage veil is proportional overall.

Sometimes contrast is better than matching details. If your dress features a fine lace pattern, contrast it with a birdcage veil with larger lace appliques which can pull together your look. Add detail to a modern and sleek plain gown by styling it with pearl, floral or crystal accents. A traditional lace dress with ornate lace patterns can be contrasted with pearl or 3D floral details for a next level look.

2. Your face shape is important when choosing a birdcage veil

As a birdcage veil frames the face, it makes sense that your face shape will be an important consideration when choosing your birdcage veil.

When it comes to finding the perfect birdcage veil, it’s all about accentuating your finer features while drawing attention away from the areas you don’t want to focus on.

The first step is to determine your face shape as this will impact the angle you will wear the veil, its width and the overall shape. So decide whether your face shape is oval, heart, triangle, square, round or long by reading our related post.

It’s also important to consider your head size, factoring in your forehead height and width. If you have a small face or head circumference, a smaller veil will look more proportional. By contrast, a wider or taller forehead or a larger head size will suit a wider veil as you will need the extra length to offer more coverage. Keep in mind if you are self conscious about a wide forehead, your birdcage veil should offer height to lengthen your face. If you’re worried about a tall forehead, consider a veil which features volume at the sides.

You might be wondering how to measure a birdcage veil?

The width of the veil refers to the distance from the top of the head, where the veil sits in your hair, down to where it falls across your face. On a centre gathered birdcage veil, a 9 inch width works best positioned at an angle so it sits about 2 inches above your hair line, covers your forehead and extends to cover an eye/eyebrow. On a bandeau birdcage veil, a 9 inch width will fall a little further down to touch your nose. If you wish for more coverage, a 12 inch birdcage veil can be placed further back at the crown of your head and will fall to the tip of your nose.

If you have a tape measure handy, determine where you want your veil to sit and measure from that point down to where you want the veil to fall across your face.  As a birdcage veil is often worn for the ceremony, it’s best to have the veil fall to the nose or above the lip so it doesn’t get in the way of the ‘you may now kiss the bride’ moment.

A bandeau veil is where the veil has been gathered at the sides near the ears and features two separate combs. A bandeau veil is best measured across its length so from the two gathered points (ear to ear).

3. Your bridal hairstyle will impact your overall silhouette

Your bridal hairstyle is important for a few reasons. It will dictate the vibe of your look and it will also impact your overall silhouette.

Pairing a birdcage veil with an updo does create a more traditional look. If you’re hoping to update the look with a more contemporary aesthetic, consider loose curls or a sleek low set bridal bun.

When styling a bridal hairstyle, keep in mind your overall silhouette. Long loose hair with a birdcage veil can appear top heavy if your hemline is short or your dress features a minimal silhouette.

If you have short hair or extra fine hair, consider a birdcage veil that has been sewn directly onto a headband for a secure fit.

As you can see below, long sleeves and long hair pair perfectly together and we’ve styled this with a sheer birdcage veil made from bridal illusion netting to soften the look.

4. Consider an embellished birdcage veil for drama

By its very nature, the diamond shaped patterns that are formed on a birdcage veil are decorative. So a simple birdcage veil can easily be worn on its own.

If you would like to pair it with an additional piece to finish the look, a birdcage veil can be worn with a feather or crystal comb positioned to the side.  For a more contemporary finish, style the birdcage veil with a thick headband to define the look.

Another option is to choose a birdcage veil with embellishments applied directly onto the veil as seen on our PRIMAVERA and NOUVEAU and STAR GAZER styles.

More styling tips

  • Bobby pins are your friend. And practice. It may take a few goes before you’re happy with how your birdcage veil sits in your hair.
  • It’s always disappointing when you order something online and it arrives flat in an envelope. It’s especially disappointing when it’s your wedding veil. A birdcage veil should arrive in a box to maintain its shape and also to avoid strong creases and folds.
  • If your birdcage veil does arrive flat, you will need to mould it in your hands to give it shape. Steam can also be used to remove the creases however this does take time and a few steam sessions.

Our recommendation is to always try to avoid creases in the first place. All accessories from our collection arrive in beautiful gift boxes, perfect for gift giving and safe keeping.

SHOP BIRDCAGE VEILS

Discover our collection of simple and embellished birdcage veils, customisable to suit you.

We explore the practical considerations for eloping with a wedding veil.

Eloping has become an increasingly popular choice for couples who want a more intimate, personal and stress-free way to tie the knot. While elopements often involve simpler ceremonies, that doesn’t mean you have to forgo traditional elements like a wedding veil. In fact, a veil can add a touch of classic elegance and romance to your day, making your day feel just as magical as a traditional wedding.

There’s a few considerations to factor in when planning a wedding with a veil, including practical considerations, how to secure it without a hairstylist on hand, how to choose a veil that will suit the vibe of the elopement to how to transport the veil to and from the wedding. Here’s a guide on all of these questions and more to ensure your elopement is a beautiful and memorable celebration.

1. Choosing the right wedding veil for your elopement

The type of veil you choose can set the tone for your elopement. For outdoor or casual settings, shorter veils such as birdcage veils, shoulder-length or fingertip veils are practical and ultra chic. They add a touch of tradition without the overwhelm. However, if you’re eloping in a more formal setting or wish to capture some breathtaking photographs on a mountain top, a chapel or cathedral veil can add dramatic flair and make for some stunning imagery.

We recommend choosing a veil that complements not only the vibe of your elopement but also the style of your dress. A classic and safe choice is a simple, unadorned veil for minimalist brides and minimalist settings. 

2. Practical considerations for eloping with a veil

The very nature of elopements means it’s important to consider the weather and have travel-friendly options. If your wedding venue is likely to be windy (beach, seaside or mountain top wedding), a shorter veil is less likely to be blown around. However, keep in mind that a long veil can also make for some exquisite photographs in these venues. If you have your heart set on a long veil, be sure to know how to best secure your veil into place by reading this post to ensure it will stay put. 

Choose a veil that’s easy to pack and transport. We also recommend packing a portable hand-held steamer for help remove any creases that may have formed on your wedding dress and veil during transit.

Ensure your veil has a comb securely attached to it. This is especially important outdoors to prevent it from slipping or moving out of place.

Photo credits: 1.  THEODORE pearl veil | 2. WEEPING CHERRY floral veil | 3. Katie Harmsworth Photography | 4. MARGAUX veil by Keepsake Photography | 5. Rhodes Wedding Co | 6. THEODORE pearl veil

3.) Styling your veil with your elopement outfit

Your veil should enhance your bridal look and reflect the style of your wedding. If you’re wearing a casual dress, pant suit or jumpsuit, consider a playful birdcage veil or a short veil for a fun and flirty look.

For bohemian style wedding dresses, a flower crown with a veil or a veil embellished with 3D florals can add a whimsical and magical touch.

If you’ve chosen a more traditional wedding dress, a classic tulle veil might be the perfect piece for you.

4.) How to incorporate your veil into your ceremony

Even in an elopement, the unveiling of your wedding dress and veil is a beautiful and intimate moment. Talk to your wedding photographer about First Look photos, where your partner lifts your veil and reveals you for the first time. This can be a private, emotional experience that enhances the intimacy of your elopement.

5.) How to transport and store your veil

If you need to travel with your veil, take some time to think about how you’ll transport it to minimise creases and damage during transit.  The best method will depend on the size of your veil, how far you’ll need to travel and the mode of transport.

We have created a comprehensive guide on how to care for your wedding veil and have provided some details below.

  • Carefully fold the veil into its box. The trick here is to minimise heavy creases by ensuring the box is an appropriate size for the veil. Try to avoid placing anything heavy on the fold lines and support the veil with tissue paper in between the layers to minimise creases.
  • Hang the veil on a hanger or clip inside a garment bag. Ensure the netting doesn’t get caught in the zipper of the garment bag as this can create a tear.

Once you get to your destination, remove the veil from its box or hanger and find a safe place to hang it. To remove creases, simply hanging the veil in a steamy bathroom is often all you need to remove soft creases.

Our short and long veil collections are shipped out with a veil hanger for you to hang up your veil. Our veils also arrive in beautiful gift boxes for safe keeping.

6.) Bustle your veil or drape your wedding veil over your arm to lift it off the ground

So what do you do with your veil if you don’t have a bridal party to help you manage its length? It’s as easy as draping the veil over one arm to lift it off the ground.

By draping the veil over your arm as you walk around, this will keep dirt and leaves off your veil so that when you get to your destination for photographs, it will be in perfect condition with minimal creases.

Learn more about how to bustle your wedding veil.

Need personalised styling advice?

We love to work with our brides to help them pull together their bridal looks. If you are planning an elopement, have needed to change your wedding gown to suit your new venue, or if you’ve needed to downsize your wedding and aren’t sure what veil would suit your dress, feel free to get in touch with photos of your wedding gown and details about your wedding day. We’d love to offer advice and recommendations to suit.

Just like a wedding dress, you can bustle your veil to keep it off the ground. We'll share tips on managing your long wedding veil on your big day.

A wedding veil adds a beautiful, ethereal touch to your bridal look, flowing gracefully as you walk down the aisle. However, as the day progresses, you may want the convenience of a shorter, more manageable veil, especially when travelling from the ceremony to the reception or between photography sites.

This is where bustling your wedding veil can come in handy. Come with us as we guide you through the steps of how to bustle a wedding veil.

Photo credits: I Got You Babe Weddings (Bride Ambar wears our bespoke AUDREY veil), Harwell Photography, RIVIERA floral wedding veil

What does it mean to bustle a wedding veil?

Bustling your veil involves gathering and securing the veil to make it easier to move around while still looking elegant and avoiding harsh creases as much as possible.

The technique to bustle a veil is similar to how you would bustle a wedding dress. The main difference is it takes only a few moments and you won’t require someone to crawl under your dress to secure the bustle into place.

This is a handy trick if you don’t have a bridal party to help you with your long veil on your wedding day. By bustling your veil and your dress separately, it won’t get in the way during your reception and it reduces the chances of your veil getting damaged allowing your veil to become a beloved family heirloom for years to come.

How to bustle a wedding veil in 3 steps

Over the course of the day, your long wedding veil may have gathered leaves and dust on the underside of the netting. As you will be bringing the bottom section of the veil up towards the comb, it’s best to remove any dirty marks or leaf residue caught in the fine netting otherwise it will be on full display.

If your veil is lightly soiled, using baby wipes or moistened towelettes are a quick and easy way to dab away any marks before they set.

Step 1: Find the middle point of your veil

Locate the back centre of your veil. This doesn’t need to be an exact measurement but somewhere near the middle so your bustle will sit symmetrically. Ask a friend or a bridesmaid for help.

Step 2: Pinch the fabric and bring it up towards the comb

The exact point to pinch the fabric depends on your veil length.  If you’re wearing a cathedral veil, come in about 1-1.5 metres from the end of the train as a starting point. Pinch the fabric at different points and see how it looks when you bring it up to the comb. Ideally the shortened veil will fall to roughly fingertip or waltz length.

Step 3: Pin the fabric to the veil's comb

This is where a family heirloom like your grandmother’s brooch comes in handy. Using a brooch pin, carefully thread it through the netting. We recommend threading the pin through a section of fabric that’s about 1-2 inches wide so you have a good hold. Bring it up to the comb, pick up some of the fabric on the comb and secure it. Alternatively, you can pin the gathered section of your veil to the bustle on your dress.

If you don’t have a brooch pin or a family heirloom to secure the veil, a small standard safety pin will do the trick.

Tips from our bridal stylists

  • This technique works best with veils that aren’t heavily gathered. The ideal veil is a sheer veil such as a drop veil, a mantilla veil or a Juliet cap veil. It can also be achieved on a veil with a blusher layer. If your veil is heavily gathered, this technique will still work but it will create a fuller silhouette.
  • This look isn’t for everyone. When in doubt, remove the veil and replace the veil with a different accessory such as a headband or comb.

Unlike traditional wedding veils, a drop veil is made from a single layer of tulle or lace that drapes gracefully over your head and shoulders, creating a soft, ethereal look.  However, securing a drop veil can be a bit tricky due to its simple and delicate design. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to properly secure a drop veil, ensuring it stays in place throughout your special day.

1. Understanding the drop veil design

Before diving into the securing process, it’s important to understand the design of a drop veil. This type of veil can be requested with a comb or with no comb or clip sewn onto it.  For veils without a sewn in comb, the lack of a built-in attachment can mean you’ll need to secure the veil with pins to keep it in place.

Shop this look: WILD WILLOWS lace wedding veil, LUMIERE fingertip drop veil

2. Preparing your hair

The first step to securing a drop veil is preparing your hair. Your hairstyle plays a crucial role in how the veil will sit and stay in place. Here are a few considerations:

  • Hair type and texture: Whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly, make sure it’s styled in a way that provides a good base for securing the veil. This could mean adding volume with curls or waves, or smoothing it down if you’re opting for a sleek look.
  • Hairstyle: Drop veils can be worn with a variety of hairstyles, from updos to loose waves. For a secure fit, consider styles that allow for easy placement of pins or clips. Updos often provide a stable base for securing the veil, while loose hairstyles might require additional pins to hold everything in place.

Shop this look: BLAIR wedding veil, BLAKE wedding veil

3. Placing the drop veil

Once your hair is styled, it’s time to place the veil. Follow these steps for a perfect fit:

  • Positioning the veil: Start by deciding where you want the veil to sit. If you’re using a blusher, place the front edge of the veil just above your hairline. For a more traditional look without a blusher, position the veil slightly further back on your head, around the crown area.
  • Centre the veil: Ensure that the veil is centred on your head. You can use a mirror or ask a friend to help you check that the veil is evenly placed on both sides.

4. Securing the drop veil with pins

To keep the drop veil in place, you’ll need to use hairpins or bobby pins. Here’s how:

  • Using hairpins: Gently lift the top layer of the veil and insert a hairpin into your hair, securing it through the veil. Make sure to choose pins that match your hair color for a discreet look. Repeat this process on both sides of your head, near the temple or crown area, depending on your hairstyle.
  • Crossing the pins: For added security, use two pins in a crisscross pattern. This technique helps anchor the veil more firmly, reducing the chance of it slipping.
  • Hiding the pins: If you’re concerned about the pins being visible, consider using decorative pins or clips that blend with your hair or veil design. Alternatively, your hairstylist can help strategically place the pins to keep them hidden.

Shop this look: BLAIR fingertip drop veil, LUMIERE pearl drop veil

5. Ensure comfort and stability

Comfort is key on your wedding day, so make sure the veil is securely fastened without being too tight or causing discomfort. Here are some tips:

  • Test the fit: Before the big day, do a trial run with your veil to ensure it stays in place and feels comfortable. Walk around, move your head, and see how the veil holds up.
  • Backup plan: Have a few extra pins or clips on hand in case you need to adjust the veil throughout the day. Your maid of honor or a close friend can help with any quick fixes.

Shop this look: THEODORE chapel veil with pearls

5. Removing the veil

When it’s time to remove the veil, whether after the ceremony or for the reception, do so carefully to avoid disrupting your hairstyle:

  • Gently slide out pins: Gently remove the pins or clips, taking care not to pull on the veil or your hair.
  • Lift the veil: Slowly lift the veil off your head, ensuring that it doesn’t catch on any hair accessories or jewellery.

Shop this look: LUMIERE pearl, CAMILLE long veil, GARDENIA floral veil, MIDNIGHT crystal veil

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.

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