Veil-o-Rama!

After you have skillfully hunted and purchased a wedding gown, the next big decision is the veil. Though it is not a complicated process to choose a veil (once you have a few on, it's a quick pick), here are some things to think about during the process.

1. Is a veil right for you?

I know that at this point, many brides will have already clicked off this blog, sure that they do not want a veil. Veils seem to be cumbersome and overly traditional, and in this world of DIY weddings, an unnecessary detail. However, many brides who come into AniA absolutely POSITIVE that they don't want a veil end up with a cathedral length, beaded veil with a big blusher in front. There's something about a veil that adds drama and completes the whole bridal look. SO. Before you decide, at least try a few on. If you still hate the idea, so be it:

Some brides are content with veil alternatives. And with these kinds of options from Twigs and Honey, why wouldn't you be?

2. How long will you wear your veil?

Don't forget- most brides take their veil off right after their ceremony. You aren't committing to a whole night of tulle. If you DO want to wear it all night, make sure you pick a veil that won't get stepped on or torn (ie, a shorter length).

Princess Di was doing ZERO partying in this veil.

3. What does your dress look like?

The number one factor in choosing a veil is the gown. If you have a gown with tons of embellishment, we recommend choosing a very simple-edged veil with little or no added goodies. If your dress has embellishment and you HAVE to have a veil with some bling, add it along the very bottom edge or choose a veil that ends below where your embellishment stops. If you have a gown that has a slim fit and a mermaid or trumpet skirt, choosing a veil with a little bit of volume will give your wedding outfit balance.

4. How are you wearing your hair?

This can definitely dictate what kind of veil you get. If you're doing a half-up 'do, you might want to consider tucking the veil into the spot where your hair is fastened. If your hair is going all the way up, you have the option of positioning your veil underneath your hairdo as well. One veil can look lots of different ways depending on its placement, so play with different ideas.

This delicious 'do is punctuated by a gorgeous serged edge veil neatly tucked underneath.

5. Edges and Fabrics and Sparkles, Oh My!

You can get different kinds of edging on your veil- check out Occansey Designs for edging options. There are a few different kinds of tulle and netting you can use as well, ranging from the structured, open French net all the way to the softest silk tulle. Picking what kind of bling or lace you want should reflect what kind of dress you have (see #3).

6. Length Terminology

You may want to know some terminology going in- here's a li'l chart of the lengths of veils. Some may be called different things (and cage veil is not even on here- the nerve!) but this is a good guide. Waist is sometimes referred to as "elbow" and Hip as "fingertip."

6. Still lost?

Browse the interwebs and get some more details on what kind of veil will work best for you. Ultimately, the best time to shop for a veil is either when you purchase your gown, or after it's arrived. You want to see how the gown will interact with the veil. Check out Veil Shop for tutorials on which veil to pick.