Create Your Perfect Custom Wedding Veil

A veil is a beautiful and traditional accessory item that adds the perfect touch to any wedding dress. However, finding the perfect one can be a challenging experience, even with a wide selection available. If you’re not finding exactly what you’re looking for off the rack, then you may want to consider a custom veil that reflects your individual style and perfectly matches your wedding dress. 

1. Work with a Custom Veil Designer

A custom bridal designer can help you create a veil that is perfectly tailored to your bridal vision, and can guide you through the process of selecting fabrics, embellishments, and comb types. Working with a designer can also ensure that your veil is of the highest quality, and that it will be handcrafted with the utmost care and attention to detail. 

2. Determine the Length and Style of Your Veil

The length of your veil should complement your dress and overall wedding aesthetic. Some popular types include:

Cathedral

A long veil that trails behind the bride, typically measuring nine feet or longer. This type of veil is typically worn with a formal wedding gown and is meant to create a dramatic effect as the bride walks down the aisle.

Chapel

A veil that falls to the floor, usually around six feet long. This type of veil is also typically worn with a formal wedding gown and is meant to create a romantic, elegant look.

Fingertip

A fingertip veil is one of the most popular types of wedding veils. As the name suggests, it usually reaches to the bride’s fingertips and is often used to complement a simple, classic wedding gown.

Elbow-Length

An elbow-length veil is a shorter veil that usually reaches the bride’s elbows. This type of veil is often used to add a touch of elegance to a less formal wedding gown.

Blusher

A short veil that covers the face and is lifted by the groom during the ceremony.

Birdcage

A birdcage veil is a short veil that covers only part of the bride’s face. This type of veil is typically made from netting or lace and can be used to create a vintage, retro look.

Once you’ve decided on a style, you can start thinking about details such as the type of fabric, the embellishments, and any additional layers.

3. Choose the Fabric

The fabric you choose for your custom veil can have a big impact on its overall look and feel. Some popular fabrics for wedding veils include:

Tulle

A lightweight, netted fabric that is popular for its airy, ethereal look.

Chiffon

A sheer, flowing fabric that drapes beautifully and has a slightly more matte finish than tulle.

Lace

A delicate fabric with intricate patterns that can add texture and elegance.

Silk

A soft and luxurious, high-quality fabric that can add a touch of sophistication.

Consider the difference in weight, drape, and texture of each fabric as you make your decision, and keep in mind how the fabric will hold up throughout the day.

4. Add Embellishments

Embellishments can take a veil from beautiful to breathtaking. Here are some popular options to consider:

Beading

Adding beads or sequins to a veil can create a shimmering, sparkling effect that catches the light.

Embroidery

Intricate embroidery can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a veil, and can be used to create custom patterns or monograms.

Lace Appliques

Adding lace appliqués to a veil can create a stunning, dimensional effect, especially when paired with a lace wedding dress.

Ribbon or Trim

Adding a ribbon or trim to the edge of a veil can create a finishing touch that ties the veil and the dress together.

Keep in mind that while embellishments can add to the beauty of a veil, they can also add to the weight and complexity of the design.

5. Determine the Length of the Blusher

If you’ve decided to include a blusher on your veil, you’ll need to determine the length of the blusher. This will depend on the length of the veil and your personal preference. A blusher that is too short or too long can be awkward or uncomfortable to wear, so make sure you choose a length that feels just right.

6. Choose the Method of Attachment

The method of attachment is also an important consideration when creating a custom veil. There are many options to choose from, including a comb, a headband, or a hairpin.

A comb is the most popular option and is perfect for attaching a veil to an updo or a half-up hairstyle. When choosing a comb, consider the weight and style of your veil, as well as the texture of your hair. If you have thick hair, a wire comb may not be sturdy enough, while a metal comb may be too heavy for fine hair.

A headband is perfect for attaching a veil to a low bun or a loose hairstyle. A hairpin is a simple and elegant option that can be used to attach a small and lightweight veil.

Tips for Choosing the Style of Your Veil

Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the style of your veil:

Consider Your Wedding Dress

Your veil should be appropriate for and match the style of your dress. For example, if you have a heavily beaded or embellished dress, you may want to choose a simple veil to avoid a cluttered look. On the other hand, if your dress is simple and understated, you may want to choose a more dramatic veil to create a wow factor.

Another consideration is the length of your dress. If you have a long train, a cathedral veil may be the perfect choice. If your dress is shorter, a fingertip veil or elbow-length veil may be a better choice.

Think About Your Hairstyle

Your hairstyle is another important factor to consider when choosing a wedding veil. If you plan on wearing your hair up, a longer veil may be a better choice, as it will create a more elegant, formal look. If you plan on wearing your hair down, a shorter veil may be a better choice, as it will not compete with your hair for attention.

Consider Your Wedding Venue

If you’re getting married in a grand cathedral or ballroom, a longer veil may be more appropriate. If you’re getting married on the beach or in a garden, a shorter veil may be a better choice, as it will be less likely to get tangled in the grass or sand.

Think About Your Personal Style

Ultimately, your wedding veil should reflect your personal style and preferences. If you’re a more traditional bride, a classic veil may be the perfect choice. If you like more modern styles, a veil with a unique design like a birdcage veil may work better for you.

You may find a veil that you fall in love with even though it doesn’t fit into the traditional categories. What matters most is that you feel beautiful and confident on your wedding day.

Think About Your Budget

While of course the price of a custom veil may be a little higher, the final result will be a gorgeous handmade piece that is completely personalized to your aesthetic. It’s your Big Day, you should be totally happy with your dress and veil.

Caring for Your Veil

In addition to selecting the right wedding veil, it’s important to take care of it properly. Store your veil in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat until you’re ready for the Big Day. Don’t store it in a plastic bag, as this can trap moisture and cause damage to the veil.

My Expert Advice

As a wedding dress designer, I think creating a custom veil can be a wonderful way to add a personal and unique touch to your wedding day. By following these steps and working with a skilled designer, you can the perfect wedding veil  to complement your dress, your personal style, and your overall wedding aesthetic. 

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fabrics, colors, and embellishments to create a veil that is uniquely yours. Whether you opt for a simple tulle veil or a heavily embellished lace design, a custom veil can be a stunning and unforgettable addition to your wedding day look.

Why trust Angela?

Angela Kim has worked in fashion internationally for over 20 years. She created Angela Kim Couture in 2017 and now specializes exclusively in custom wedding dress design.