To Veil or Not to Veil?

Taken from our Bridecast YouTube Show — “To Veil or Not to Veil”

A conversation between Julie & Shenali from Bluebell Bridal®

Julie: Hello brides! In today’s episode, we’re talking veils — the big question: to veil or not to veil?

Shenali: Yep, we’re going there. And yes, we’re totally quoting Shakespeare.

Julie: We are. And I stand by it.

Both: It’s the frosting! 🍰

Why veils, anyway?

Shenali: I’m at that part of my own journey — dress is sorted, now I’m thinking about styling. And I keep asking myself… do I veil?

Julie: The veil’s been around forever — we’re talking ancient Rome forever. Back then it symbolised modesty and purity, and was meant to ward off evil spirits.

Shenali: No spirits to ward off here, thanks! These days, it’s more of a fashion statement — it finishes off the bridal look.

The “statement” bit

Julie: When you say statement, are we talking about those amazing photo moments?

Shenali: Exactly! Lace trims, 3D florals, appliqué details — they’re all trending. If your dress is simpler, a statement veil adds that extra something. If your gown is detailed, a clean, raw-edge veil keeps it elegant.

Julie: It’s all about balance, not overload. We want frosting, not a sugar crash.

Blusher or back-only?

Julie: I have such a soft spot for a blusher — that moment when the veil’s lifted is so romantic.

Shenali: It is, but I’ll be honest — I find them a bit irritating! It’s something over your face, and if there’s wind, or lashes involved… disaster!

Julie: Fair. If you do want that soft halo look but not right on your face, ask for a gathered veil — it gives you a bit of space. A flat-set veil sits closer and more modern.

Shenali: Or if you just love the look for photos, you can always drape a single-tier veil forward for that dreamy shot, then wear it back for the ceremony.

Not a veil person? Still gorgeous.

Julie: You don’t have to wear one!

Shenali: Totally. There are so many alternatives — pearls, hairpins, neck scarves, soft shawl drapes. I’m more of a statement earring girl for the reception anyway.

Length, proportion & what actually works

Shenali: Cathedral veils — about three metres — are definitely trending right now. But choose what works for your height, train, and venue. I’m petite, so I can go a little shorter and still get that dramatic effect.

Julie: And taller brides can go full cathedral and it looks stunning. The main thing? Always try your veil with your gown — don’t just imagine it.

Colour & fabric (the details that matter)

Julie: A veil that’s too white or too stiff can clash completely with your dress.

Shenali: That’s why we colour-match veils in store — it makes such a difference.

Julie: Our veils are handmade right here in Melbourne by Stacey Papovski, a Victorian designer who uses the finest tulle.

Shenali: You can buy veils online for cheap, but they often arrive crunchy, the wrong shade, or just… not it. We see it all the time.

Timing your veil decision

Shenali: Choosing your dress is emotional enough! If it’s too much at once, come back to veils later.

Julie: Aim to pick your veil about 3–4 months before your wedding. That gives time to order or custom-make it. But if you need it fast, Stacey can usually turn one around in about two weeks.

Shenali: I like to have all my styling pieces ready before my first fitting, so you can see how it all comes together.

Ceremony vs reception

Julie: Back in the 80s and 90s, brides wore veils all night — even the big poofy ones!

Shenali: I can’t even imagine trying to dance in one of those! These days, most brides wear their veil for the ceremony and photos, then take it off for the reception.

Julie: Exactly — swap it out for gorgeous earrings or a sleek hair moment.

Quirky alternatives (crochet caps, anyone?)

Julie: Have you seen the crochet headpiece trend?

Shenali: I have! It’s quirky — like a little doily hat — not sure it’ll age well though!

Julie: Maybe not classic, but we love that brides are making things their own. And if you want pearls, custom lace, or a unique veil made, we can do that with Stacey too.

So… should you veil?

Shenali: Try one on with your dress. You’ll know in seconds.

Julie: If it makes your heart skip, that’s your frosting moment. If not, skip it and go with earrings, hair, or something that feels you.

Quick takeaways

  • Ornate dress → simpler veil

  • Minimal dress → try a statement edge or 3D floral detail

  • Blusher = romantic; Back-only = practical

  • Match tones — no crunchy tulle!

  • Veil for ceremony/photos, remove for party

  • Shop window: 3–4 months out

Come play “veil dress-ups” with us!

Bring your gown (or even a swatch!) to Bluebell Bridal®, and we’ll help you try different lengths, trims, and tones until you find the one that feels like you.

Julie: To veil or not to veil?
Shenali: Try one and see.
Both: Nothing lost — maybe everything gained. 💫