We make custom wedding veils in our Dulwich Hill atelier, designed to match the gown they are worn with: the same lace on the edge, the same beading, the same white. Lengths run from shoulder to cathedral, in plain or embroidered tulle, and every veil is quoted individually.
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Which veil length should I choose?
Length is the first decision, because it changes the whole silhouette. Measurements below are approximate and taken from the crown of the head; your veil is cut to your height and where you place the comb.
| Length | Falls to | Approx. length | Suits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shoulder | Just past the shoulders | 50 to 60 cm | Short or tea-length gowns, jumpsuits, a playful look |
| Elbow | The elbow or waist | 70 to 80 cm | Gowns with back or waist detail you want to show |
| Fingertip | The fingertips, arms relaxed | 100 to 110 cm | Most silhouettes; easy to wear all day |
| Floor | Just touching the floor | about 180 cm | Sheath and A-line gowns without a long train |
| Chapel | A short pool past the hem | about 230 to 260 cm | Gowns with a sweep or chapel train |
| Cathedral | Well past the train | about 3 metres or more | Church weddings, ball gowns and long trains |
Some brides go further. Alexandra wore a six-metre veil detailed with the same 3D flowers and beading as her A-line lace gown, and Samantha’s six-metre veil was hand-beaded in the same floral lace as her cathedral-train skirt. A veil that long is a church and photographs veil: plan for someone to help carry and arrange it, and for it to come off or be shortened before the reception.
What tulle is a veil made from?
Tulle is a fine net, and the type changes how a veil falls and photographs.
- Silk tulle is the softest and most fluid. It drapes close to the body, has a gentle sheen and is the traditional couture choice.
- Soft bridal tulle in nylon or polyester is light and less fragile, and comes in very soft finishes that drape well. It holds a little more shape than silk.
- Stiffer net stands away from the head and gives volume. It suits a short, structured veil more than a long one.
- Spotted or patterned tulle adds texture without lace. Katie wore a veil of soft ivory spotted tulle with her bridal jumpsuit.
Colour matters as much as type. Whites vary from bright to ivory to champagne, and a veil should be matched against your gown in daylight, which is easiest when both are made in the same atelier.
Embroidered, lace-edged or plain?
| Style | What it is | Best with |
|---|---|---|
| Plain, cut edge | Tulle with a raw cut edge, which tulle allows because it does not fray | Detailed gowns, where the veil should not compete |
| Fine finished edge | A narrow rolled or ribbon edge | Clean silk gowns that want a crisp outline |
| Lace edge | Lace motifs or a lace border sewn by hand along the edge | Lace gowns, using the same lace |
| Embroidered or scattered | Lace motifs, flowers or beading placed across the tulle | Brides who want the veil to be a feature, especially in the church |
A well-placed lace motif is cut from the lace by hand and sewn on so it lies flat and looks part of the tulle. With long veils, the heaviest detail is usually placed low, near the hem and the train, so it falls well and catches the light when you walk.
How is a veil matched to the gown?
When we make your gown and veil together, Catherine designs them as one. The veil picks up the gown’s lace, beading or flowers; its length is set against the train; and the comb is placed to suit your hairstyle. Lauren’s classic lace ball gown was finished with a veil, and Vanessa’s long-sleeved lace sheath with a long veil.
Bring your hairstylist’s plans to your fitting. A veil worn under a low bun sits differently to one placed at the crown, and the comb needs to be secure for the length you choose.
Veils are designed with your gown, as part of a bespoke commission. Every veil is quoted individually, depending on length, tulle and hand-work.
How do I wear and look after it?
- Practise. Wear it at your final fitting and walk, turn and sit.
- Plan the moment it comes off. Many brides wear a long veil for the ceremony and photos, then remove it for the reception.
- Steam, never iron, and only on a low setting held away from the tulle.
- Store it flat or loosely rolled in acid-free tissue, away from light and damp.
For more on caring for your gown and veil, see our guide to wedding dress care. To design your veil with your gown, book a consultation.
