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| 1920's Vintage Wedding dress and Veil! |
Oh to veil or not to veil, it’s always a tricky one. In bygone days the veil used to be worn to protect the bride from evil spirits and was a symbol of her betrothal for life. Nowadays, it is seen as a beautiful accessory and in my eyes nothing else quite screams bride than a veil. We have all seen those pictures with the bride’s veil billowing effortlessly in the wedding day breeze to add that touch of romance. (see above!) However, it is a very personal choice.
There are so many styles, materials and decorative details available, it can be quite a task to find the perfect one. Do you want tulle, silk, ribbon edged or sewn edged, crystals or pearls, scalloped or straight , floor length or blusher style, on top of the head or at the back of the head?!!! Its enough to tip you over the edge. Styles range from traditional lace, soft and sheer or stiff nylon tulle to multiple layers to the floor or short styles.
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| Bird Cage Veil |
Whilst working in a bridal boutique, I used to spend a long time with brides choosing this accessory. It had to balance the bride and her dress perfectly, so as not to overwhelm and to perfectly compliment and frame the gown. Many brides would initially decline the veil, but once they had tried them on changed their mind. I can relate to this I was extremely hesitant about wearing a veil as I felt it was too traditional for me as I wasn’t marrying in a church. However, once I tried a few on I loved the way it completed my dress. Besides, when else would I get a chance to wear one! I did disappoint my mother though when she saw me walk down the aisle without the blusher over my face. In hindsight I wish I had worn it as it provides a wonderful photo opportunity when the groom lifts the veil and see’s his bride for the first time.....awww. Anyway....... back to some information.
Veils come in a choice of lengths (information below taken from The Wedding Dress Source book- Philip Delamore)
BIRDCAGE - Gives volume on the top, usually in net material and it can be worn on the top or to the side. A birdcage veil can be seen attached to a small hat or attached to a large hair ornament. A very flexible veil and can give a retro or modern twist.
BLUSHER –A short shoulder length style which is fixed atop the head so it can easily be pushed back over the head during the ceremony. Works well for simple modern dress styles and suits and will suit all face shapes.
ELBOW-As the name suggests, a simple veil that falls to the elbow. These include Fountain styles which may be multiple layers of fabric gathered at the crown, wither softly cascading, or in stiffer fabrics to create added height and shape. Ideal for thin faces as the height and width will help re proportion face.
FINGERTIP – A veil which reaches to the fingertips, it is a classic veil length, often trimmed in lace or satin ribbon. If you are not so slim, be careful that this style does not add width to your waist visually.
WALTZ- A calf or ankle length veil which will usually be a softer style. Good for rounder face shapes as it will help to slim and elongate.
CHAPEL- A more traditional style of veil, often worn with ball gowns. The chapel veil just sweeps the floor, and may cascade in several layers. Often worn at the back of the head it can help balance a long or thin face. May be worn without a blusher.
CATHEDRAL - The longest and most formal style, usually seen in royal weddings. The veil will fall as a train behind the wearer.
MANTILLA – Spanish style lace veil which encases the wearer from top to toe, and falls from the crown to the head. Will work beautifully with simple column or mermaid styles.
My advice to you would be go open minded to your dress fittings, you don’t even have to decide straight away if you want a veil. It took me a couple of goes to make the final decision. If you go to a good bridal boutique they will be able to guide you to the right style and finish for your dress. Even if you decide not to go for the veil there are still other beautiful options available to you- which I will discuss in a future blog.
I would be interested to know of peoples thoughts on veils. Are you definitely having one or maybe choosing to wear something else? To finish I have to share the picture of a bride who to me oozes style and elegance and this picture of her just makes me sigh!
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| The gorgeous Grace Kelly on her wedding day |
