Most Popular Wedding Veils throughout History

Some researchers say that the bridal veil was first worn in ancient Rome. It was believed that the veil would protect the bride from evil spirits on the wedding day. They thought covering the face would confuse the spirits and send them away. The veil, in part, was known as a shroud or mask… not as a bridal dress accessory as it is today.

Thankfully, over the years, veils have evolved into a part of the bridal ensemble that is meant to reflect the bride’s personality. Therefore, there are now an array of different styles and lengths from which to choose.

Chapel length veil: This is one of the most traditional veils. It is very long and dramatic, and meant for indoor chapel weddings. The length starts at about 90 inches long. If you are planning a formal or black tie wedding, this could work for you. Chapel length veils are also available with two to three tiers, if the bride opts for a blusher.

Cathedral veil: Talk about a statement! This veil is even longer and wider that the chapel veil. The normal size is about 120 inches long and is meant to be longer than the train of the dress—think a royal wedding. As with the chapel veil, tiers are available.

Fingertip veil: These veils are exactly what they sound like… they end at the bride’s fingertips. It is a great length (about 36 inches) for any style wedding, but more traditionally worn for semi-formal and formal weddings. Tiers are available, but two is the recommended number to go for.

Elbow length veil: Again, the name says it all. Elbow length veils are probably the most popular out there. The reason? They work with a casual weddings, beach weddings, semi-formal weddings, or formal weddings. A blusher is optional, but most brides don’t choose a tier with this style of veil due to its shorter length (30 inches).

Bird cage veil: The bird cage veil is a very short veil that has become wildly popular with the return of vintage-style weddings. However, modern brides love this look as well. These veils are made with thin French tulle or wide netting. The cover the entire face and end at the chin, or they can go horizontally across the face for a more dramatic look. No tiers are available—cage veils sport a built-in blusher.