Veil or Not? — Moss & Maeve

While a traditional cathedral or chapel veil is always a stunning accessory, we’ve been seeing much more variety with how brides are wearing their hair and accessories recently. There are many different ways to make your look unique, so don’t be afraid to step away from tradition and embrace the modern!

Long Veils — The Cathedral or Chapel Veil

Before branching off into tips and suggestions for alternatives to a long veil, I had to give a shout out to the traditional cathedral or chapel veil. A classic, romantic statement veil with a long train is a breathtaking addition to any wedding gown (there’s a reason this style has remained beloved over the years!) These veils give your overall bridal look a striking feel and they also compliment most hairstyles, whether you have an updo or not.

However, while there is no arguing with their beauty, long veils can sometimes be difficult to manage. They can get caught on things easily or swept up in the wind during outdoor ceremonies. So while they are a gorgeous addition to any wedding, keep in mind that they are a bit trickier to maneuver in on your actual wedding day.

Short Veils — The Fingertip or Elbow-Length Veil

Not every veil has to be long and dramatic! Elbow-length or fingertip veils have grown more popular in recent years and are a chic accessory to any wedding look, not to mention they are much easier to navigate than a heavy, over-the-top veil.

I recommend using a shorter veil if your wedding dress has an intricate and sophisticated back—this way you can show it off. If your dress doesn’t have a train, this might be a good time to try an elbow-length veil too.

Hairpieces or Accessories

A lot of brides have been forgoing veils entirely in exchange for delicate headpieces and hair accessories. Let the hairstyle take the lead in this instance, and use the headpiece to complement the look. For example, you can easily incorporate a glittering hair vine into an elegant braid, which will result in a dreamy hairstyle with a romantic twist.

Hair Clips, Hair Pins or Simple Earrings

Hair clips or pins are also trending and can be a subtle way to add a little sparkle to your bridal look. Try using these with long, luxurious curls down your back—the pins can pull back your hair from your face, leaving a few loose curls in front. This style embraces simplicity, femininity and modernity—plus we can’t get enough of a fresh and relaxed look!

Also, keep in mind that not every bridal look has to include accessories or veils! Simple curls without any additional piece added to them can be a great way to emphasize your dress and other accessories such as earrings or necklaces.

Floral Headpiece

Floral hair pieces are an effortless way to incorporate your overall vision and floral scheme into your bridal look. These pieces can be as simple as comb with a few florals that you can place in your updo or a daring, extravagant piece that completely steals the show. The choice is yours!

You don’t always have to follow the traditional rules when it comes to planning your dream wedding. You can achieve an alluring, sleek style whether you choose to incorporate a veil or not. Don’t forget that you can have fun with fashion, especially on your wedding day! Play dress up and experiment with these different options so that you can settle on the perfect dress, style and accessories for your special day.

Photography

Sarah Porter Photography

Sarah Hill Photography

Heather Callanan Photography

Samantha Ruscher Photo

Jess Leigh Photographer