The veil

The veil has a long legacy and women have worn it as a symbol of their purity and chastity since biblical times. For the majority of western women today it is questionable that the veil represents purity and chastity, but it can be said to be a symbol of fidelity. In terms of symbolism however, for many 21st century women the veil is as importnat as the dress and represents the transformation from women to bride.

As with almost everything in brideland, when you delve into the subject it is more complicated than you expected! Veils can be long, layered cathedral length, short and simple or anything in between. They can be plain or ornate, heavy or light, beaded, sequined, pearled, covered incrystals, embroidered and edged in ribbon or lace. A veil can be made of expensive luxurious silks, or simple man-made affordable fabrics. They can be worn at the nape of the neck or so they completely cover the face. They can be secured with a simple plastic comb or anchored with an antique tiara. The veil could even be omitted altogether, the choice is yours.

For a dramatic, romantic entrance the wisp of of chiffon, tulle, silk or lace is hard to beat. If you don't know whether you'd like to wear a veil consider whether in your overall look your hair is more important. If it is, you've more options if you do not wear one. But remember, a veil can be secured so as to be easily detached. If you think it might not be appropriate because you are an older or a second-time around bride, ask yourself if it is propriate both to your outfit's style and the location of your ceremony. There are ofcourse no rules for second-time around brides. Don't hold back. If you want to wear a veil, than go ahead and wear one.

A word of caution if you are hoping to wear a family veil. The fabric of your dress may need to be matched to it and that can sometimes be very difficult. Lace, silk and tulle can fade very quickly and discolour badly over time.If you really want to wear a family or vintage veil, you need to have it professionally cleaned in advance of purchasing your outfitr, and take it with you when trying on gowns.

Consult with whoever has sold you your outfit as well as your hairdresser before making any decisions on your veil and/or head-dress. Try on as many different styles and lengths as you can and with your dress on (or a simalar sample of it). Your veil should complement your outfit, not compete with it; it's an ensemble.

Also choose a style that suits the shape of your face and your body type. For example, a full round face could benefit from a sigle layered veil that falls down the sides of the face thereby narrowing it. A thinner-faced bride could opt for a layered veil that adds with. Similarly, ashorter or fuller figured bride could choose a log, narrow cut veil that creates a vertical line and adds height. The choice of veil will largely be dictated by the outfit, but even then there are several styles and lengths to choose from.