Georgina Clatworthy

Wedding veils have re-cemented their place in wedding traditions with many of today’s style icons choosing to wear luscious layers of tulle on their wedding days. For certain the humble veil is enjoying something of a resurgence so if you fancy adding one to your outfit here are some expert tips when it comes to choosing a wedding veil.

• Always try on lots of different styles: just like wedding dress, veils come in different shapes and sizes too and whilst your final choice needs to compliment not only your dress but also your height and face, the only way to determine which one is right is by trying them on. Don’t do it in your normal clothes though, you can only truly appreciate the effect a veil will have if you try it on with your wedding dress too.

• Don’t believe the myths: you may have heard that some venues or ceremony formats do not allow for veils. This is a complete myth and you are completely free to wear a veil at any venue and for any wedding ceremony. You do not need to wear the blusher part of a veil over your face either.

• Choose a veil which compliments your face shape: do think about the effect a veil has on your face shape. I have seen photographs of bride’s with enormous multi-tiered veils which completely overshadow their faces and make them appear lost in a cacophony of tulle and lace! The position of the veil is another consideration when it comes to choosing the right veil. A rounder face can appear elongated by placing the veil high up on the head to add height for instance.

• Think about your other accessories: think about how you will compliment the veil when choosing other hair accessories. Tiara’s are proving very popular at the moment whilst simple combs, bands and pins are other options.

• Consider your wedding day hairstyle: your veil will need something to grip onto to keep it in place so an up-do is the best option. If you want to keep your hair down then you will need to ask your hairdresser to work a braid or plait into your hair so the veil comb can be slid into it.

• Handle your veil with care: veils can be very delicate and creases are not always easy to remove. Always hang a veil rather than fold it to ensure any wrinkles drop it before the big day. Never iron a veil as it can damage it significantly.

• Keep it, take it out: it is upto you when you choose to remove your veil. Many brides prefer to take them out once the wedding breakfast is over or before in the case of something long and large! Of course a short veil is much easier to wear throughout the day, but some styles do have detachable trains so you can take a tier out to make it more manageable.