Choosing the right veil length for your wedding dress

Deciding what veil style and length to wear to your wedding can be a more difficult task than anticipated. It’s wise to choose a veil that complements your wedding dress or hairstyle — ensuring your overall wedding look and theme are enhanced. There are several factors to consider when selecting the right veil length. Here are our top tips!

The wedding veil has seen a long, rich history of traditions and meanings. Spanning from ancient Greek and Roman brides protecting themselves from evil spirits to showing humility and respect towards their gods — there are endless reasons why couples today honour this tradition and classic wedding accessory.

While 2023 couples may value the meaning behind veil-wearing, we can’t ignore the timeless style and elegance these meticulously-crafted items can add to your overall wedding look. Whether you’re going for a dramatic, royal aesthetic or a chic, fun, and flirty vibe, there’s a wedding veil style for everyone.

When choosing your veil length, it’s wise to consider the following:

Dress Style

As Tasmania’s award-winning wedding boutique — Timeless Elegance — expresses:

“There are no set rules when it comes to veils, every bride has their own ideas, and veil styles are often determined by the style of the gown. A simple gown, for example, can carry a more intricate veil with lace, pearl or crystal trim at any length. A more detailed gown would suggest the need for a more simple veil. Your stylist will be able to make recommendations when trying on gowns. It is advisable to try on a few veils when trying on gowns as it will give you more insight.” 

The style of your wedding gown will significantly impact your veil length decision. From slinky, backless gowns, mermaid cuts, and tea-length cocktail dresses to classic ballgowns, princess and A-line dress styles — each dress type will welcome certain veil types over others. If you want to show off the back detail of your gown, you may consider a shorter veil or a long veil made with sheer, see-through material.

Focus on which parts of your wedding gown you’d like to accentuate most, and from there, you can better decide the thickness, length, and texture of your veil.

Dress Material

Choosing the length, edging, and embellishments of your wedding veil also depends on the material of your wedding dress. If you’re wearing a detailed gown, such as a boho-chic lace dress, you may opt for a similar lace-trimmed veil or no veil at all. If you decide to complement your gown with lace detailing on your veil, avoiding clashing styles, colours, or details is essential. You want to add to your overall look, not distract from your wedding dress.

Simple sheer veils are popular as they suit most dress materials. Some may choose to complement their gown with a satin veil trim for their satin dress or a sparkling, crystal-embellished edging for their minimalist silk dress. You’re free to mix and match as long as you avoid clashing fabrics and details.

Overall Wedding Vibe and Theme

You may be planning a relaxing, beachy wedding, a glamorous, contemporary affair, or a fun, modern city vibe. Understanding your wedding theme and feel may impact your veil decision.

As Perth’s luxury brand — JRW Bridal & Couture — explains:

“It is more about your style and vibe for the day! A short veil (waist length) is more fun and flirty, with the longer veils being a bit more dramatic. For the princess style gowns, I prefer the veil to extend slightly longer than the train and for the more fitted gowns, only slightly longer or the same length works quite well.” 

Budget

Like most wedding elements, it’s wise to know and set a budget or price range is wise. Depending on the detail, material, and brand, some veils can cost quite a lot — even more than your dress! Understanding your budget will help you determine the style of your veil.

Hairstyle

Your hairstyle is a significant part of the equation to consider! If you’re sporting a stylish textured bun, you may not want to hide that detail with a thick, texture veil. Pinning a long sheer veil under the beautifully-crafted bun may be the way to go. If you’re rocking some mermaid or Hollywood waves, you may place the veil atop your head, almost like a crown.

Customised Veils

“Veils completely vary in style and length depending entirely on personal preference. We create stunning custom veils if you have a specific vision in mind.” — Bridal House Geelong.

While you may be having fun browsing ready-made veils in a variety of stores, you may also consider custom-designed veils! This is a stellar option if you have your heart set on a particular style that may not be readily available. It also allows you to add extra touches of personalisation, including lovely embroidered lettering! This is a surefire way to create a truly one-of-a-kind wedding keepsake.

“There are many options available with veils, from vows or initials embroidered onto the lower edge to matching dress lace! Your guests are staring at your veil and the back of your dress throughout your ceremony, so be sure to keep that in mind!” — JRW Bridal & Couture, Perth.

Choosing the right veil length for your wedding dress is an important part of completing your wedding ensemble. Your choice may depend on the style, colour, and material of your gown, as well as your hairstyle and budget. Consider whether your veil distracts from or accentuates the beauty of your wedding dress. If your veil complements your gown and hairstyle, you’re good to go! But it’s all about personal preference. You might opt for a splash of colour on your wedding veil or something completely out-of-the-box. The choice is 100% yours, as is your wedding day!

Head to our wedding directory to browse stunning wedding gowns and veil styles!