Veil and headpiece: the big decision

And that is just the first of many things to think about as you shop. You must also consider how you will wear your hair; which will take precedence — your hair or your veil; whether or not you plan to cover your face; your height; your groom’s height; and how formal your wedding will be. Then, of course, there are many different veil styles, lengths, colors, shapes, fabrics, and types of edging or trim to choose among. That may seem like a daunting list, but each decision will build on the one before it. Like selecting your wedding gown, taste and instinct will certainly play roles in your choices; but, the more information you have, the better those choices will be.

Your Hair

Let’s take just a minute to talk about your hair. What you decide about your hairstyle will influence many of your other decisions. For just a moment, picture your wedding in your mind’s eye.

Do you envision it as elegant or casual? Romantic or fun? Traditional or trendy? Will it be held in a church, a garden, or a hotel? Will your dress flow or cling? Why do these things matter? Because where the wedding is to be held and its degree of formality will influence how you wear your hair and your veil.

The next important consideration is whether you want your hair or your veil to take center stage. If it’s your hair, will it be pinned in place so it doesn’t move or blowing in the wind (think Julia Roberts galloping off in Runaway Bride)? Your hairstyle is so important that, if you can, have it done and wear that style the day you go shopping for veils.

You may be thinking, how can I possibly know how I’m going to wear my hair months or even a year from now? While you may alter some of the details before the actual day, chances are you already know deep down exactly how you want your hair to look. Keep that picture in mind as you look at veils and tiaras or other headpieces. It will make decision-making so much easier.

Your face

Originally, a bride’s face was covered by her veil until the end of the ceremony when she was “revealed” to her groom. In more formal or religious weddings, that tradition is still observed, using a double-tiered wedding veil.

Often today, however, the face is no longer covered. You may want a simple, single-tier veil or one attached to a headpiece. If you plan to hold your reception in a park, a garden or at the beach, where a veil might get in your way, you may want to omit it completely or keep it short and removable for after the ceremony.

Your height

If you are short (about 5'4" or less), you should consider an elbow length veil (about 30 inches long). If you are tall, the rule of thumb is to wear a longer veil, so ladies taller than about 5'6" should consider a fingertip veil (36 inches long). Also, if you are taller than the groom, consider wearing flats or ballerina shoes, avoiding a poufy hairstyle, and opting for a low-profile headpiece.

Your wedding gown

You really can't pick a veil you absolutely love without knowing what your wedding dress looks like. Here is the rule to remember: you don’t want your veil and the dress to compete for attention. You don’t want an elaborate veil with an elaborate dress. Rather, a simple, minimally trimmed veil will put the spotlight where it belongs — on you and your gown. Conversely, if your gown is a sheath or some other classically simple style, a beaded, lace- or jewel-trimmed veil can be the star of the show. Here are some ways that rule comes into play:

• Always allow your veil to show off your dress’s details.
• Be sure the veil length is just above or below the dress’s focal point or waistline.
• Choose a long, sheer veil to reveal and emphasize lavish details on the back of a gown.
• Make your veil as long as or shorter than your dress.
• Wear a very long veil only if your dress has a train.
• Choose a fingertip veil or elbow-length veil for a floor length gown.

Headpieces and Tiaras

Wedding headpieces run the gamut from traditional combs to glittering, jeweled tiaras. As with your veil, consider both your wedding hairstyle and your dress as you decide on the type of headpiece you will wear. If you have already purchased your veil, that will be a big factor in your decision. It is a good idea to ask your maid of honor, mother, or other close friend for their opinions on which headpiece looks best with your ensemble.

Choose a headpiece size that is in proportion to your dress and has similar detailing. The best advice is basic advice: first choose your gown; then, choose your accessories to complement it. Explore the bridal headpieces and tiaras sections for a better feel for your options.

Special thank you to writing coach, editor, and ghostwriter Bobbi Linkemer, who contributed the original material throughout MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com.

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