Our Love for Veils

Source: Sara Gabriel

Have you wondered how the tradition of brides wearing a veil came about? I mean, it is rather random that this tradition or some might say culture, has travelled from East to West or West to East. 
In Asia, the Chinese wear the red veil and in the west, they wear the white veil. Whatever the colour, the groom lifts it when claiming his bride. So why do brides wear the veil? Here is a fun fact: 


Long long ago, when marriages were arranged and before the word dating was invented, it was a custom that the groom did not see his bride until their wedding day. Part of the wedding ceremony included uncovering her face. This custom was followed by the Romans, the Hebrews, the Hindus, the Chinese, and many other ancient European and Asiatic people. 


The veil was worn as a protection against evil spirits and the evil eye (this was a long time ago!). The bride wore her veil as a disguise so that these evil spirits, jealous of her happiness would not know who she was, and therefore, could not hurt her or create havoc on her wedding day. 

Source: IWCP

Today, we have such a large selection of veil designs and your choices are endless. Let us go through some basic ones with you.

Blusher: This is a short single layer veil which is usually worn over the face during the ceremony and then pulled back over the hair.


Flyaway:  Multi-layered shoulder-length style, ideal for keeping the detail on the back of a dress on show.


Elbow: An elbow length veil is usually attached to a headpiece and extends down to your elbows. 


Fingertip: With your hand by your sides, the ends of the veil will reach your fingertips. 


Waltz: The waltz veil is sure to create an impact and will work well on slimmer fitting dresses, even those without a train. This long veil will flow from your headpiece right down to your ankles.


Chapel: The chapel veil is a beautiful and traditional choice the flows down over the train of the dress. This is a formal choice and best compliments a traditional gown with a long train.


Cathedral: This veil extends 3.5 yards from the headpiece. Make sure if you opt for this choice, the rest of your gown is substantial enough to carry off this look. 

Besides the length, you can also create a different look with the textures and finishings of veils. These are some designs by Sara Gabriel. 

Birdcage

Birdcage: Our personal favourite. This chic modern veil just blows us away. Birdcage veils can be worn with a fascinator or fresh flowers.

Mantilla

Mantilla: This Spanish inspired veil is usually made of lace trimmings. It falls over the head and can be worn alone as it does not require a headpiece to keep it in place.

Silk Trimming

Silk Trimmings: This piece is a classic. Works well with most gowns and gives of a very simple but elegant finish.

Multi-tiered

Multi-tiered: If you like to add some volume to the veil, opt for a multi-tiered design. 


The veil is an essential accessory for you as a bride. It can complete your look or it can destroy it. Therefore, it is important to make sure that you pay attention to this little head piece! This is truly the "other half" to your gown.