
Veiling a bride has long been a custom of concealing a bride’s beauty from uninvited suitors or to hide her from evil spirits that threaten to steal her from her beloved. Superstition also suggests bad luck for even the groom to see his bride until the ceremony was finished.
Today, veils are considered more of an elegant adornment to a bride’s attire and offer many choices of fabric and style. Here are some of the more popular styles worn.
Blusher – a shorter veil worn over the face about 24-26 inches long, usually attached to a longer veil. The blusher stays over the face during the entire ceremony and lifted at the end when the groom kisses the bride. Traditionally, this was the first time a groom would see his bride.
Birdcage – made of a wide-open weave of netting, it extends to just over the chin.
Elbow length – a single or multiple layered veil about 25 inches in length to the elbow.
Fly-away – a less formal, layered veil that just brushes the shoulders.
Finger tip – a more popular veil because it compliments most gowns, its length extends to the finger tips.
Mantilla – drapes over the entire head and is worn without a headpiece. Spanish-style lace frames the face.
Ballet/waltz – simple, straight fabric that falls to the ankles.
Chapel – a more formal veil usually worn with a chapel-length train extending 6-12 inches beyond the length of the train.
Cathedral – a formal veil usually worn with a cathedral-length train extending 6-12 inches beyond the length of the train.
Since there are so many options to choose from, it is important to try on the veil with your gown before making a final decision. Make sure the veil you choose compliments the gown with a similar style and appropriate formality. You may want to consider borrowing a veil from a family member or friend. Even though today the veil is more of an accessory than folk lore, it is still considered to be a symbol of good fortune when borrowed from a happily married bride!