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Choosing the Perfect Wedding Veil Length: A Comprehensive Guide (and my philosophy regarding veil length)

Selecting the right veil is a pivotal aspect of crafting your bridal look. The length of your veil can dramatically influence your overall appearance, complementing your dress, venue, and personal style. Here's a breakdown of various veil lengths to help you make an informed decision:


Short Veils (Shoulder to Elbow Length)

  • Birdcage Veil: A vintage-inspired veil that covers part of the face, offering a chic and retro look. Ideal for brides seeking a non-traditional style.

  • Shoulder-Length Veil (20-22 inches): Falls around the shoulders, perfect for dresses with intricate bodice details.Glamour

  • Elbow-Length Veil (28-30 inches): Reaches the elbows, providing a balanced look that suits various dress styles.


A girl wearing a hot pink veil that has a big ruffle on it.
Lily elegantly wears the Pink Passion veil: an It adds a vibrant touch to her sophisticated white dress.

Mid-Length Veils (Fingertip to Knee Length)

  • Fingertip-Length Veil (36-45 inches): Extends to the bride's fingertips, flattering most body types and gown styles. Love and Lavender

  • Knee-Length Veil (45 inches): Falls between the knee and mid-calf, offering elegance without the hassle of a longer veil. Love and Lavender



A girl wearing a dress with feather cuffs and a veil with bows on it.
Lily is wearing the Long White Bow veil. It's just the right length to wear to your reception while still looking classy and refined.

Long Veils (Waltz to Cathedral Length)

  • Waltz or Ballet-Length Veil (60 inches): Reaches mid-calf, allowing freedom of movement while maintaining a romantic aura.Glamour+1TARA BRIDAL+1

  • Floor-Length Veil (72-78 inches): Touches the floor, aligning with the gown's hem for a seamless look.

  • Chapel-Length Veil (90 inches): Extends slightly beyond the gown's train, adding a touch of formality.

  • Cathedral-Length Veil (108-120 inches): Creates a dramatic and grand appearance, perfect for formal ceremonies.

  • Royal-Length Veil (120+ inches): Offers an opulent and regal look, often chosen for ultra-formal weddings.


    Close-up of a white bridal veil with lace trim spread across a dark wooden floor, creating an elegant and refined atmosphere.
    Yes, you can wear a super long veil with a gown that doesn't have much of a train. Go ahead, make a statement!

Factors to Consider When Choosing Veil Length

  • Dress Style: Complement your gown's silhouette. For instance, a cathedral-length veil pairs well with a formal ball gown, while a fingertip veil suits a mermaid dress.

  • Venue: Consider the setting. Long veils are stunning in grand indoor venues, whereas shorter veils may be practical for outdoor weddings.

  • Personal Style: Reflect your personality. Choose a veil that resonates with your aesthetic, whether it's classic, modern, or bohemian.

  • Hairstyle: Ensure the veil complements your planned hairstyle, providing balance and comfort.

My (Frances Anne's) philosophy regarding veil length

So, here I go. I have always been an out-of-the-box person. I may be in the minority when it comes to veil length. The being said, I'm hoping that my opinion on how to choose the perfect veil length changes your thinking as you consider the length of the veil you want for your wedding day.


Picture this: a bride is 5'6". She wants a veil that reaches her fingertips. She heads to the internet and searches for her veil using the search term, "fingertip length veils." She finds a veil that fits that description orders it. When it arrives and she tries it on, the veil falls just above her wrists. She's a little disappointed. Another bride, who is barely 5' tall, orders the same veil and when she tries it on, it extends past her fingertips by several inches. She, too, is disappointed.


Sigh.


If you head to my veil shop, I list the length of each veil. I prefer to give you the measurement as opposed to the name of the veil (e.g. fingertip length, cathedral length, etc). There are so many interpretations (just look at veil length diagrams on Pinterest) when it comes to veil lengths. This is why I stay away from those terms. When I say I offer "custom veils," I will cut the veil to the exact length you prefer. I will ask brides to place a tape measure on their head and drape it down their back and record the length they prefer for their wedding veil. That way, the bride receives exactly what she wants.


When searching for a veil, try on various veil lengths with your dress. Doing so can provide clarity and help you envision the complete look. You can also consult with me to find the perfect veil that matches your dress, drapes to the length that's just right for you, and aligns with your wedding vision.

 
 
 

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