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The Veil

By Ciara Flynn

In Wedding Folklore, people once believed that the veil would protect the bride from enemies and evil spirits. It was also considered good luck if it happened to catch fire on the altar. Thankfully, today’s veil serves only as an accessory used to complete a particular look. However there is a multitude to learn before choosing the veil which best suits the bride.

The Basics

The first thing a B2B must know is that the veil should not compete with the dress. If you’ve opted for an elaborate gown, then pair it with a simple veil. Likewise, a decorative veil can add that finishing touch to a plainer dress. If both dress and headpiece are too busy, attention will be detracted from the star of the show- you.

The Options

Blusher Veil- this is a short single layer which is worn over the face and sits below the chin. It often helps soften sharp features.

Fly-Away Veil- a multi-layered headpiece which barely brushes the shoulder. It is considered a casual veil and should be worn with a casual gown.

Elbow-length Veil- as the name suggests, it sits at the elbow and doesn’t overpower the dress. It is especially recommended for petite brides under 5’4.

Fingertip Veil- it reaches to the fingertips when your arms are hanging naturally. It compliments most wedding dresses and is particularly suited to taller brides over 5’7.

Chapel-length Veil- it extends to the floor, roughly 2 and a half yards from the headpiece. It flows over the train and is quite formal.

Cathedral Veil- this is the most formal of the veils and should be worn with the cathedral train. It flows 3 and a half yards from the headpiece and should be removed before the reception.

The Veil to suit your Face

Round Face- a veil which falls along the side of your face will help narrow it. Never wear a hair band-style headpiece as this will accentuate a wide face or forehead.

Square Face- a longer veil teamed with face-framing tendrils of hair help relax a strong jaw.

Oblong Face- a waterfall veil and a wide tiara help add width to a longer face. Stay away from piled up hair and opt for a comb-style headpiece.

Heart shaped face- most veils are too full for you; choose a backpiece where the veil shows up behind the neckline and adds width at the jaw.

Oval- you’re the luckiest of the bunch as any type of veil will compliment your face!

Top Veil Tips

� The veil should be considerably shorter than the dress

� Hairstyle makes a huge difference to your veil’s look- decide how your hair will be done on the Big Day and wear it in this style while shopping for the veil

� Remember where you’ll be. A long veil is not practical for a beach wedding. Also bear in mind that too much material can be cumbersome, particularly on a windy day.

� If there is any colour variation between dress and veil, ensure the veil is a shade lighter rather than a shade darker.

Photo from Style Me Pretty

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