The Bride’s Guide to Finding Your Dream Veil
This article is part of our Ultimate Wedding Dress Shopping Guide.
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You’ve found the wedding dress that makes you feel like a queen—now it’s time to complete your bridal look with the one accessory that truly brings it all together: the wedding veil.
We get it— we know there are countless beautiful veil options to explore! So, don’t worry, our #TrueCrew of expert bridal stylists at True Society have you covered! In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about wedding veils, from different styles to expert tips on pairing them with your gown and venue.
So, let’s dive in and find the veil that makes you feel your most bridal self on your big day!
Ready to complete your bridal look? Book an Accessory Appointment with our stylists today!
The Significance of a Wedding Veil
Did you know that wedding veils have been around for centuries? While their exact origins remain a mystery, veils have always played a symbolic role in bridal traditions.
- In Ancient Rome, brides wore veils to ward off bad energy and protect themselves from evil spirits.
- Over time, veils became a representation of modesty and purity, especially in religious and traditional ceremonies.
- Today, veils are more about self-expression—whether you wear one for its romantic aesthetic or as a nod to tradition, it’s all about what feels true to you.
Why a Veil Completes the Bridal Look
Your wedding veil isn’t just another accessory—it’s the final piece that truly brings your bridal look to life.
Imagine yourself walking down the aisle, your veil floating softly behind you, adding that extra layer of romance and mystery to your look. It’s the moment when everything feels real—when you truly feel like a bride.
A veil can add an undeniable touch of elegance and tradition, creating a visual harmony between your gown, your hairstyle and your overall bridal vibe.
From simple and sheer to dramatic and embellished, a well-chosen veil makes for breathtaking wedding photos and elevates your entire look.
What Are the Different Types of Wedding Veils at True Society?
Let’s dive into the enchanting world of wedding veils! With so many gorgeous options to choose from, finding the perfect one is an exciting part of your bridal journey.
But don’t worry— soon you’ll have a clear picture of which veil will beautifully complement your dream dress.
Cathedral Veil (The Statement-Maker)
- Best for: Brides who love drama and elegance
- Length: 108+ inches
- Perfect Pairing: Dresses with long trains and grand ballgowns
- Stylist Tip: Add lace appliqués or beaded details for an extra wow factor.
If you’re all about making a grand entrance (like our True Bride Zaina), a cathedral length veil is your go-to.
This stunning style is one of the longest veils you can choose, extending well past your dress’s train for that jaw-dropping effect as you walk down the aisle.
Cathedral veils work well for formal weddings and look especially amazing with dresses with a dramatic, long train.
Want to add a little something extra? Add a cathedral veil to a wedding gown with lace appliqués, beaded details or dimensional flowers for that extra touch of drama.
See how our True Bride Katie rocked her cathedral veil. The natural beauty of Breckenridge, Colorado countryside and surrounding mountains has nothing on this gorgeous bride.
Fingertip Veil (The Classic Choice)
- Best for: Timeless, elegant brides
- Length: 40-60 inches
- Stylist Tip: A sheer fingertip veil allows the details of your dress to shine.
One of the most popular choices among brides, the fingertip veil, is versatile and oh-so-flattering.
As the name suggests, it falls right at your fingertips when your arms are at your sides.
This style of veil is beautiful for an outdoor wedding or for the bride who wants to keep the focus on their dress! Because this style of bridal veil doesn’t flow over the entire gown like a cathedral veil, we recommend pairing with an A-line, simple mermaid or sheath gown, which won’t interrupt how the veil lays.
Blusher Veil (The Traditional Favorite)
Let’s not forget the blusher! This sweet, traditional veil is that short layer of tulle you see covering the bride’s face as she walks down the aisle.
It’s a beautiful, romantic touch that adds a little mystery until that magical moment when it’s lifted for the first kiss. You can find blushers attached to many veils or you can add one separately to almost any veil style—except a birdcage, of course.
- Best for: Brides who love a classic, ceremonial moment
- Length: Covers the face, typically 30 inches
- Perfect Pairing: Any dress style!
- Stylist Tip: Most blushers come attached to longer veils for versatility.
Ballet Veil (The Ethereal Beauty)
If you’re looking for something that strikes a balance between long and short, the ballet veil might be your perfect match.
This style falls somewhere between the knees and ankles, offering a touch of drama without the full commitment of a cathedral veil.
- Best for: Romantic and whimsical brides
- Length: 50-60 inches
- Perfect Pairing: Sheath and boho gowns
- Stylist Tip: Adds an angelic touch without the heaviness of a cathedral veil.
The ballet veil is both ethereal and elegant and it pairs beautifully with simple sheath gowns or any dress where you want the veil to complement without overpowering.
Birdcage Veil (The Vintage Vibe)
For our vintage-inspired brides, the birdcage veil is an ideal option. This chic and sophisticated style is typically made of netting and sits just over your eyes, grazing your face for that glamorous, old Hollywood vibe.
- Best for: Retro, vintage or city-chic brides
- Length: 9-12 inches (covers part of the face)
- Perfect Pairing: Lace dresses, short dresses or sleek modern gowns
- Stylist Tip: Pair with a red lip and classic curls for full vintage glam.
Matching Veil Lengths with Dress Styles
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk about how to match your veil length with your dress style. This is where it all comes together and trust us, when you get it right, it’s pure magic.
If you’ve chosen a gown with a long, dramatic train, a cathedral veil is your best friend. It’ll extend the length and add that “wow” factor as you glide down the aisle.
On the other hand, if your dress is more on the minimalist side—like a simple mermaid or sheath style—a fingertip or ballet veil might be just the thing to add elegance without overshadowing your gown’s silhouette.
For brides wearing gowns with intricate back details or embellishments, you might want to go for a veil that’s more sheer or shorter, like a fingertip or birdcage, so those gorgeous details can shine through.
Remember, your veil should complement your dress, not compete with it.
Pro Tip: Make sure you talk to your stylist about your venue…
Having an outdoor ceremony? A veil with a bit of weight, like one with lace or beading, can help keep it in place if there’s a breeze.
Indoor and formal? Go all out with that cathedral length for pure drama!
Our Most Popular Veils
3651 by Marionat
Pearl-beaded edge adds elegance. Available in two lengths. Available in fingertip and cathedral lengths.
2050ST by Marionat
Sheer, light and luminous—perfect for a radiant glow. Available in fingertip and cathedral lengths.
2050ST Veil
AVL2505 by Essense of Australia
Blends signature Essense of Australia lace for a timeless-meets-modern look that matches almost any gown.
AVL0032 by Essense of Australia
Intricate lace cascades beautifully, framing the face & train. Brides fall in love with this veil before it’s even on their head.
AVL0046 by Essense of Australia
A fan fave among our brides and our stylists! Romantic floral lace halo with a blusher for soft elegance.
Gown: Martina Liana Style 1165 + 3651 veil
How to Style Your Wedding Veil
Choosing the right veil to pair with your wedding dress is key to pulling off a look that’s both beautiful and put-together. The right veil can really make your bridal gown pop, highlighting its special features.
Whether you’re going for something classic and timeless, sleek and simple, laid-back boho or even a chic short style; there’s an ideal veil out there for every type of wedding gown. Paying attention to the shape of your dress, its unique details and the overall feel it gives off will allow you to pick a veil that provides just the right finishing touch for your bridal look.
Veil Care: How to Store, Transport and Preserve Your Wedding Veil
Before the Wedding
✔ Store in a breathable garment bag to prevent wrinkles.
✔ Keep away from direct sunlight to avoid yellowing.
✔ Hang it high enough to avoid creases.
On the Wedding Day
✔ Use hidden bobby pins to keep it secure.
✔ Steam out any wrinkles beforehand.
✔ Avoid snags by keeping it clear of jewelry.
After the Wedding
✔ Get it professionally cleaned.
✔ Store in an acid-free box for long-term preservation.
✔ Repurpose into a keepsake or heirloom fabric.
Final Thoughts: Find Your Dream Veil at True Society
Your wedding veil is more than just an accessory—it’s the finishing touch to your bridal vision. Whether you love the drama of a cathedral veil or the effortlessness of a ballet veil, our True Society stylists are here to help you find your perfect match.
Ready to complete your bridal look? Book an Accessory Appointment with our stylists today! Selection varies by store.
