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Choosing the right wedding veil is a crucial part of any bride's journey to the altar. A beautiful veil can bring elegance and charm to your bridal look. Among the various styles available, chapel length veils stand out as one of the most popular choices. Based on my experience at Tara Bridal, where I have had the pleasure of helping over 3,000 brides worldwide over the past seven years, I can confidently say that the chapel wedding veil is a favorite for many. However, there are common mistakes that can lead to disappointment. To help you avoid these pitfalls, here are five not-to-dos to watch out for when selecting your chapel wedding veil.
1. Not Considering Your Dress Style
One of the most critical factors when choosing a chapel wedding veil is how it works with your wedding dress. Many brides have fallen into the trap of selecting a veil that they love without considering how it pairs with their gown. In fact, some brides become so enamored with wedding veils that they purchase one before even choosing their wedding dress. This is a significant mistake, as you should select your wedding dress first; the veil is an accessory that should be chosen afterward.
Bride: Miriam Baranowski, Germany. Photo: innagrebe. Veil: Kaitie from Floral veils collectionTip: Match Fabrics and Details
Think about the fabric and design of your dress. If you have a lace gown, a veil with lace accents will be cohesive with your wedding dress. For a simple satin dress, a chapel wedding veil with minimal embellishments can complement its elegance without taking center stage. Always keep in mind the color of your dress; a stark white dress may not pair well with an ivory veil, or vice-versa.
If you are considering the color options, check out our blog on Ivory vs White Wedding Dress: Which Color Complements Your Dream Veil? for insights on how to choose a veil color that matches the dream vision for your wedding.
Moreover, consider the silhouette of your gown. A structured ball gown may benefit from a fuller veil, adding drama to your appearance, while a sleek, fitted dress might pair beautifully with a more understated veil. Your chapel wedding veil should create a unified bridal ensemble.
2. Ignoring Your Wedding Theme
Your wedding theme plays a vital role in your choice of a chapel wedding veil. Sometimes however, brides choose veils based solely on personal preference without considering how they fit into the overall theme of the event.
Tip: Stay Consistent with Your Theme
If you're planning a vintage, rustic, or modern wedding, your chapel wedding veil should reflect that theme. If your wedding has a bohemian vibe, consider a veil with floral motifs or fringe details. Conversely, a classic chapel wedding veil works well for traditional ceremonies. Make sure your veil fits the atmosphere you wish to create.
Bride: Alix Celestino - Ventura, CA, USA. Photo: karatillerphotography.com. Veil: Jesi
Additionally, think about the venue of your wedding. An outdoor garden ceremony calls for a lighter, more whimsical veil, while a formal church wedding may lend itself to a more structured, ornate veil. If you're having an outdoor ceremony, check out our blog on Wedding Veils for Outdoor Ceremonies: Best Picks for Every Season for more ideas. The right chapel wedding veil will seamlessly blend into your wedding's aesthetic.
3. Overlooking the Length of the Veil
The length of your chapel wedding veil can significantly affect your appearance. More often than you’d think, brides mistakenly choose a length based on current trends rather than what suits best their needs for their wedding day. It's important to consider how the veil length interacts with the train of your wedding dress. Another reason I recommend purchasing your wedding dress first before selecting the veil.
Bride: Miriam Baranowski, Germany. Photo: innagrebe. Veil: Kaitie from Floral veils collection
Tip: Find the Right Length for Your Height
A chapel length wedding veil is ideal for full dresses with a short train, no train, or even shorter wedding dresses, as this allows the veil to cover the train beautifully, adding to your already romantic appearance. Typically, chapel length veils measure around 90 inches in length, but the width can vary, with options like 60 inches, 72 inches, or 95 inches depending on the brand. At Tara Bridal, our chapel veils also measure 90 inches in length, with a standard width of 72 inches. Some special veils, such as organza veils, may have a width of 95 inches.
4. Forgetting About Comfort and Practicality
While looks are important, comfort should never be an afterthought when choosing a chapel wedding veil. Many brides select veils that look beautiful but are cumbersome to manage throughout the day.
Tip: Test the Veil's Comfort
Make sure to try on your chapel wedding veil as you would wear it on your wedding day. Check how it feels when you move, dance, and interact with guests. Does the material flow and move how you want it to? Feel right on your head and down your back? A veil that constantly slips or feels heavy can be distracting and uncomfortable. Opt for a veil that suits your style while allowing you to enjoy the celebrations without wanting to take it off.
Moreover, consider how the veil will be attached. A secure attachment method is crucial for your peace of mind. Whichever method the veil uses to stay attached, pins, a metal comb, or being clipped in, make sure you can make it feel secure and comfortable. You want to focus on enjoying your day, not adjusting your veil.
Bride: Miriam Baranowski, Germany. Photo: innagrebe. Veil: Kaitie from Floral veils collection
5. Neglecting to Plan for the Veil's Styling
Finally, some may overlook how they will style their hair in conjunction with their chapel wedding veil. The way you wear your veil can change your entire look, so it's essential to plan ahead.
Tip: Coordinate Hair and Veil Styles
Chapel wedding veils, with their moderate length, are suitable for all hairstyles, including short hair and pixie cuts. If you plan on wearing your hair down, a veil that flows freely, like a chapel length veil will look stunning. For an updo, you’ll want your chapel veil to attach at the crown for the best look. Make sure to have a trial run with your hairstylist to see how your chosen veil looks with your hairstyle of choice before the big day.
In addition, think about how your veil will frame your face and enhance your features. A veil can serve as a lovely accent, showcasing your natural beauty. Make sure your choice of veil compliments your unique appearance.
The Fashion Statement of a Chapel Wedding Veil
Your chapel wedding veil is a statement piece that reflects your personality and sense of style. The right veil will transform your entire bridal look, so make sure the choice feels and looks you. From intricate lace to flowing tulle, the options are numerous.
Trends are evolving, and now you can find a variety of styles, including colored veils, 3D floral designs, and more than just simple white or mantilla veils. At Tara Bridal, we encourage brides to explore these options and find a chapel wedding veil that speaks to them.
Bride: Alix Celestino - Ventura, CA, USA. Photo: karatillerphotography.com. Veil: Jesi
Explore More Styles
If you're still exploring options, we invite you to check out our Modern Wedding Veils, Colored Wedding Veils, and 3D Floral Veils collections. With so many new trends in veils today, you're sure to find something that perfectly matches your vision.
Additionally, don’t forget to read our blog on Types of Wedding Veils: Finding the Perfect Style for Your Bridal Look. This resource dives deeper into various veil styles, helping you find the right match for your unique wedding vision.
Also read: What Makes a Chapel Wedding Veil Unique? A Complete Guide
Conclusion
Choosing the right chapel wedding veil should be an enjoyable experience, not a stressful one. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can find a veil that truly reflects your style and complements your bridal look, and avoid any changes or needing to order a veil a second time. At Tara Bridal, we are here to help you every step of the way. With our expertise and personalized service, we can assist you in selecting a chapel wedding veil that fits your dress, matches your theme, and feels comfortable and beautiful for your wedding.