Veils are a beautiful addition to your wedding day ensemble, dresses are gorgeous, but veils are effortlessly classic and we can’t get enough of the drama they create. Whether they’re long and flowy following you down the aisle or vintage birdcages accentuating your eclectic style, we’re here for them all.
Originally worn to symbolize modesty and reverence, today’s veils have evolved into an art and can be customized in nearly any way you can think of. Historically most brides wore long traditional veils that covered their faces and trailed behind them, but according to Martha Stewart the most popular veils types today are:
Birdcage: Chic, dainty, and out of the box
Blusher: Hits at the bust, typically worn over the face while walking down the aisle
Mantilla: Regal and trimmed in lace
Tiered: Layered and dramatic look
Fingertip: Present, but still lets the dress do the talking
Ballerina: The most common veil type
Cathedral: Watch your step because this baby is loooooong
Elbow: Enhances (or helps create) an hourglass figure
But, wedding veils aren’t just fashion statements, they’re also gorgeous props. When we get pictures back from photographers we can’t wait to see veils swept up in the wind or draped over the couple. They’re always fun and give photographers a creative alternative to traditional walking and kissing shots (of course those are lovely too!). We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite veil pictures for some inspiration, but even if you’re not planning on wearing a veil, stick around and feast your eyes on these beauties!