RecycledBride

Veil Lengths

You’ll have lots of options when it comes to the length of your veil. Start with Veil Length basics:

• Short veils are veils that measure up to 26”. Short veils are usually worn with gowns that don’t have trains. They go best with short dresses, gowns with full skirts, or dresses that have detailing at the waist.
• Elbow length veils are about 27” to 38” long. They are very versatile, pairing well with dresses of different lengths and styles.
• Fingertip veils measure about 40” to 52” long. They are meant to skim the fingertips, and create an elegant, elongated bridal silhouette. Fingertip veils can be worn with any style full length gown.
• Cathedral length and chapel length veils are long veils that are usually worn for formal weddings, with dresses that have trains. Cathedral and chapel length veils can be as long as you like, but usually work best if they’re about a foot longer than the train of your gown.
• Birdcage veils are made of netted material and are very short, covering only the bride’s face. They are often worn with vintage bridal looks, but can be also be combined with more traditional style dresses.
• Fascinators are hair clips or headpieces that are made of feathers, flowers or other decorative items. A fascinator may be worn on its own or with a veil attached. Many birdcage and vintage-style veils are anchored by a fascinator.

Which veil length is right for you? You’ll need to know what dress you’re wearing, then follow these guidelines:

• What’s the focal point of your dress? Your veil’s edge shouldn’t fall in this area. Instead, it should be just above or below the main point of interest on your dress. For example, if you have an embellished sash on your gown, don’t choose a veil that ends right at your waistline: go for a shoulder length or cathedral/chapel length veil instead.
• Does your dress have a train? If so, you can match it with a dramatic, formal cathedral length veil. Your veil should be at least six inches longer than your train.
• Where on your head will you wear your veil? Consider the placement of the veil when choosing the right length. If you plan to wear it at the crown (top) of your head, be sure to measure from there for proper length. You can also wear your veil low, toward the back of your head, and should measure accordingly.

Recycled Veils

Veils are one of the most “recyclable” bridal items around. The gently used veils that you see in our listings have usually only been worn for a few hours, which means that they’re still in excellent condition and ready to be enjoyed by another bride. Be sure that the veil you’re eyeing is aisle ready:

• Weigh in. If the veil has any beading, lace or other embellishments, ask the seller about how heavy it is. Heavier veils need more combs and pins to stay fastened to the head. If you have fine hair or plan to wear a hairstyle that won’t accommodate lots of combs and pins, it’s best to avoid heavy veils. If you plan to wear a headpiece, you can safely anchor a heavier veil to it.
• Does it require a headpiece? Some veils can be worn on their own, but others will look unfinished without a headpiece like a tiara or fascinator. If you plan to wear your veil in the back of you head, you won’t need a headpiece.
• How’s the hem? For longer veils that reach the floor, it’s important to ask the seller whether there are any stains on the veil’s edge. Cathedral and chapel length veils often get dragged through dirt and grass, so request photos if they haven’t already been provided.

Blushers and Tiers

What is a blusher? A blusher is the part of a veil used to cover the face. It’s usually worn during the wedding ceremony, then flipped back or removed.

• One-tier veils do not have a blusher. These veils are simple, modern and less formal. They are a nice choice for the bride who wants to wear her veil in the back of the head.
• Two-tier Veils and Mulit-Layer Veils do have blushers. They are suited for nearly all dresses, but go especially well with a semi-formal or formal gown. Two-tier veils will flatter your face and create a more traditional bridal look.

Color

All whites are not created equal. Veils come in as many shades and tones as wedding dresses do. Your dress and veil don't need to match perfectly, but it’s better to choose a veil that’s a shade lighter (versus a shade darker) than your gown.

• White - This a bright, stark white color. If your gown is called “white,” this is the veil color you need to select.
• Diamond White or Silk White - This color is just barely off-white. It goes with white gowns that are made of silk or satin, and is also the best choice for “candlelight” or “antique white” gowns.
• Ivory veils are softer than whites, with subtle beige undertones.
• Champagne colored veils have a blushy or subtle brown tone to match champagne or dark ivory wedding dresses.