Wedding Veil 101: Bridal Veil Style Guide

Traditionally considered a wedding-day must-have, they say a veil is what turns a woman in a beautiful white dress into a bride. A seemingly simple accessory, the veil has the power to completely transform your wedding day look.

{Photo by Donna Newman Photography}

What veil is best for you? Take a look at the top 10 bridal veil styles…

Cathedral Veil: Traditionally worn at more formal weddings, the cathedral length is the longest—nine to 25 feet—and more detailed. When paired with a grand gown, this is the stuff of fairy tales…

{Photo by Sara DiCicco Photography}

Chapel Veil: Normally a bit longer than a floor length veil, the elegant chapel length is best if you dream of dramatic walk down the aisle.

{Photo by Fred Marcus Studio}

Ballet Veil: Also known as a waltz or ballerina veil, ballet length falls anywhere between your fingertips and the floor—usually about knee to ankle—adding drama without hindering your movement. It also offers the perfect wind swept photo opportunity.

{Photo by Alain Martinez Photography}

Fingertip Length Veil: A timeless favorite, this length offers all the perks of a sophisticated, long veil without too much restriction of movement. The fingertip is also easily worn with any gown style and looks flattering with an array of hairstyles.

{Photo by Ambrosio Photography}

Shoulder Length Veil: Playful and fun, a shorter veil is traditional with a twist—adding a playful element to your wedding day look.

{Photo by Chris Joriann Photography}

Elbow Length Veil: This veil length covers your shoulders and frames your face, complementing your hairstyle or enhancing details around your waist. It’s also perfect with a ball gown because it ends where the full skirt begins.

{Photos by Ambrosio Photography & Braedon Flynn Photography}

Mantilla Veil: A circle of tulle and lace, it is a regal, old-word option that’s usually word draped over the head, framing the face. This Spanish-inspired style is best paired with a streamlined silhouette.

{Photo by Sara Kauss Photography}

Blusher Veil: A mix of classic and modern, the blusher is typically a single tiered layer of tulle affixed to a comb that falls in front of the face.

{Photo by Chris Joriann Photography}

Juliet Cap Veil: Offering a more vintage look—think 1920 and 30s—the Juliet cap covers the crown of the head with tulle to your fingertips. Inspired by Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’, this style is perfect for a chic bride with a nostalgic side.

{Photo via Kleinfeld Bridal, Justine M Couture}

Birdcage Veil: Usually worn by brides looking for more of a vintage and retro feel, the caged veil can be any shape or size. Often paired with a bold lip and a shorter gown, the birdcage accentuates your wedding day hair and makeup.

{Photo via Trendy Bride, Brklyn View Photography}

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Do tell: Which wedding veil style is your favorite?

More resources…

Not sure which style is right for you? See The Knot‘s Tips for Choosing Your Wedding Veil

Already have your gown? Peek at BRIDES‘ guide for How to Pick Your Veil Based on Your Wedding Dress

Forgoing the veil? Browse InStyle’s list of Alternative Bridal Headpieces