Learn the lingo of bridal veil styles, and discover which one is right for you.
At first glance, the different types of bridal veil styles can seem quite intimidating – what the heck is a waltz wedding veil?! However, in reality, and with a little guidance, the various styles are not too hard to understand.
A bridal veil is a classic choice, traditionally worn to ward off evil spirits and cover the bride’s beauty. They highlight the bride as she walks down the aisle, often enhancing her wedding dress by complementing the lace or embroidery on it.
Choose the right bridal veil, and you can completely transform your overall bridal style. For example, a blusher might convey a retro-chic vibe, while a cathedral-length veil feels traditional and oh-so dramatic. You could be wearing a fairly uncomplicated wedding dress, but when it's paired with a more detailed veil, suddenly you've got this whole other look.
If you're struggling to decide between the different types of bridal veil styles, we've compiled an ultimate guide to wedding veil styles, complete with some expert tips.
Different Bridal Veil Types, Explained
Cathedral-Length Bridal Veil
A cathedral-length bridal veil is the longest of the veil types, and it creates a soft, regal look. Cathedral veils reach well past the end of the wedding dress, typically measuring 120–144 inches in length.
Chapel Length Bridal Veil
Also known as a church-length veil, the chapel bridal veil oozes drama and glamour. They’re slightly shorter than cathedral wedding veils, so ideal for brides who want the effect of a train without actually having one on their dress.
A chapel-length bridal veil often sweeps across the floor behind the bride, extending slightly past her dress and measuring somewhere between 90 and 110 inches (2.79 m), and so it is one of the longer types of veil.
Waltz Bridal Veil
If you’re after a bridal veil that falls between the calf and ankle, a waltz bridal veil is one of the best types for you. These are great if you’re hoping to keep your veil on well into the reception because they don’t interfere with all that dancing. The waltz bridal veil is also sometimes called a ballet wedding veil and measures somewhere between 54 and 60 inches (1.52 m).
Fingertip Bridal Veil
Fingertip bridal veils are perhaps the most popular veil types, and for good reason. They fall just beyond the bride’s hip and are extremely flattering on most wedding dress styles. What’s more, they’re often single-tiered and beautifully sheer, so if you have any delicate detailing on the back of your gown, your guests will still be able to see it. Fingertip bridal veils typically measure around 40 inches (1.02 m) in length.
Elbow Bridal Veil
Slightly shorter than the fingertip veil, elbow bridal veils typically measure 25 inches (0.64 metres) in length. Elbow veils are another hugely popular style due to their compatibility with most wedding dresses, from long sleeve styles to ballgown shapes.
They fall gracefully over the bride’s shoulders, stopping at the elbows, and they’re a great way to cover your shoulders in a religious wedding ceremony without having to wear a bolero or shrug.
Shoulder-Length Bridal Veil
The shoulder-length bridal veil stops at the shoulder. They’re usually around 20 inches (50.8 cm) in length and are one of the best types of veils for brides who want something understated. They work particularly well with wedding dresses that are heavily embellished on the bodice.
Just remember that where in your hair you place the veil will alter its length.
Blusher Bridal Veil
Also known as an angle veil or wedge bridal veil, this veil type falls over the face and ends as the dress starts. Since it covers the face, it’s often pulled back by the bride’s partner at the start of the ceremony to reveal her face. A clasically romantic moment!