Nothing says “bride”; as clearly as a veil. Perhaps not even the wedding dress if history is to be believed. The white wedding dress as a custom is relatively new at about 200 years old.
The veil, however, dates as far back as biblical times when a woman getting married would wear a cover over her head to symbolise purity. Another explanation was protection.
A bride wore a veil over her face to protect her from “evil spirits”. Modern brides now still wear the veil as a symbol of purity, except perhaps what used to be a delicate silk or cotton muslin covering is now made of tulle.
This article was first published in Her World Brides Sep – Nov 2008.
https://www.herworld.com/life/weddings/7-veil-ideas-choose/
7 veil ideas to choose from
A Modern Twist
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An updated, veil version of a low chignon, the veil is rolled into a funky shape and secured to hair at the nape. Who says sleek hairstyles have to be flat?
PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN YANG/HP 9387-3227; STYLING AMANDA LIN; HAIR & MAKEUP GREGO/HP 9826-2681, USING L'OREAL PROFESSIONNEL TECHNI.ART & CHANEL; MODEL JULIA/MANNEQUIN
Blast From The Past
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Veil styles of the ’50s, ’60s and late ’70s to early ’80s were dramatically long. The bohemian, scarf tieback of the ’60s is perfect for a casual-chic outdoor reception, especially when worn with an A-line gown.
Gown, from AMANDA LEE WEDDINGS.
PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN YANG/HP 9387-3227; STYLING AMANDA LIN; HAIR & MAKEUP GREGO/HP 9826-2681, USING L'OREAL PROFESSIONNEL TECHNI.ART & CHANEL; MODEL JULIA/MANNEQUIN
Blast From The Past
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With the ’50s style, look fashionably formal with a veil teamed with a frou frou feather headpiece. Add glittery beaded strands for more glamour.
PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN YANG/HP 9387-3227; STYLING AMANDA LIN; HAIR & MAKEUP GREGO/HP 9826-2681, USING L'OREAL PROFESSIONNEL TECHNI.ART & CHANEL; MODEL JULIA/MANNEQUIN
Blast From The Past
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The late ’70s to early ’80s veil style weaves romance with a cascading waterfall style. Three or more layers of different-length tulle are sewn together as one piece, then fixed to a low chignon to flow down your back to the floor. Just what Mum would order for a formal wedding or a cathedral with a very long aisle.
Gown, from AMANDA LEE WEDDINGS.
PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN YANG/HP 9387-3227; STYLING AMANDA LIN; HAIR & MAKEUP GREGO/HP 9826-2681, USING L'OREAL PROFESSIONNEL TECHNI.ART & CHANEL; MODEL JULIA/MANNEQUIN
Sassy Chic
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The veil styles of the ’40s had a mix of pixie-ish charm combined with uptown sophistication. Think Audrey Hepburn. Go for big netting fashioned stylishly with small feathered accessories or opt for soft tulle veils edged with delicate lace. Updos should have more texture, for instance, a braided chignon or a slightly bouffant topknot.
Veil, courtesy of AMANDA LEE WEDDINGS.
PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN YANG/HP 9387-3227; STYLING AMANDA LIN; HAIR & MAKEUP GREGO/HP 9826-2681, USING L'OREAL PROFESSIONNEL TECHNI.ART & CHANEL; MODEL JULIA/MANNEQUIN
Simple Elegance
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The ’90s saw a range of styles ranging from simple double-layered veils to poufy, multi-layered ones. After the excesses of the mid- to late ’80s, part of the ’90s’ fashion movement saw a return to basics, or “timeless” styles. Here, strike a balance of both – the charm of lace and netting married with a simple silk bloom. Real blooms work just as well if you prefer something a little more natural.
Lace veil and flower veil, both to buy only, from THE WEDDING PRESENT.
PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN YANG/HP 9387-3227; STYLING AMANDA LIN; HAIR & MAKEUP GREGO/HP 9826-2681, USING L'OREAL PROFESSIONNEL TECHNI.ART & CHANEL; MODEL JULIA/MANNEQUIN
Vintage Glam
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Perhaps the flapper era of the ’20s and early ’30s represents the ultra-chic, rich looks best. Veil and hair styles are full of texture – work with headpieces combined with crystals, or have veils in multi- and asymmetrical lengths. Have hair sleek, with pin curls down the side to focus attention on the face. Wear a mermaid-cut bustier gown and you’ll be a svelte-looking bride.
Gown, from AMANDA LEE WEDDINGS.
PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN YANG/HP 9387-3227; STYLING AMANDA LIN; HAIR & MAKEUP GREGO/HP 9826-2681, USING L'OREAL PROFESSIONNEL TECHNI.ART & CHANEL; MODEL JULIA/MANNEQUIN