Chic Alternatives to Traditional Bridal Veils
- By Bridget Mora
- Published 10/11/2011
- Marriage
- Unrated
The long tulle veil is definitely a part of the traditional image of a bride. However, for some brides, it just does not feel like the right fit. It might be a second wedding or a very informal one, or perhaps the bride simply does not have traditional taste in fashion. These are some suggestions for chic alternatives to traditional bridal veils.
A very hip style is a little birdcage veil. Perched jauntily on the bride's head, it is not much more than a short piece of tulle (often one made from a very wide open weave), perhaps coming down as far as the eyes or nose. It is an awesome idea for a bride who wants to wear something on her head that says “bride”, but at the same time does not like a long tulle veil. The birdcage veil is very chic and also has a great retro flavor, which means that you need the right style of wedding gown to pull it off successfully. A slinky sheath inspired by the Golden Age of Hollywood would be marvelous with a birdcage veil, as would a very clean and contemporary gown, but avoid a “princess” style bridal gown. Add some dramatic crystal bridal jewelry for the perfect complement to your headpiece.
Feathers are another wonderful option to wear in lieu of a bridal veil. For a beach wedding, sweep the hair back into a loose bun and accent with a cluster of white feathers tucked into one side. A flat feather headband is a very hot style right now, especially one which features Swarovski crystal accents. Check out pictures of Carrie Underwood's wedding to see how fabulous this style can look. She wore
her feather and crystal band with a veil, but it is a style with enough drama to stand alone, sans veil. Wear it with striking bridal jewelry, such as chandelier earrings, and no one will miss the tulle headdress at all!
A big tend at the Spring 2011 bridal shows was ladylike hairdos with large flowers tucked in the back. Brides who cannot afford the splurge on one of Carolina Herrera's stunning gowns can steal her style inspiration by tucking large calla lilies or white gardenias into elegant buns. If fresh flowers are not your thing, consider a beautifully made silk, paper, or feather blossom for a similar effect. Silk flowers made from organza are especially lovely, and often feature a scattering of crystals or pearls in the center to accent the style of the bridal jewelry. It is a nice added detail which adds polish to the bridal ensemble.
Another way to make a statement with your bridal hair jewelry is to choose something with color. Whether it is a large single flower in your wedding colors or a cluster of hairpins in colorful Swarovski crystals, the splash of color will give your accessories a great strong presence, no veil required. Something else that is great about colorful bridal hair jewelry is that it will be the most versatile in terms of wearing again after the wedding day.
From birdcage veils to feathered headbands to statement making blossoms, there are numerous ways to look chic and stylish without wearing a traditional bridal veil. So if a long veil is not to your liking, treat yourself to one of the great alternatives. You will have a polished and elegant look for your wedding, and you will also be true to your personal style.
A very hip style is a little birdcage veil. Perched jauntily on the bride's head, it is not much more than a short piece of tulle (often one made from a very wide open weave), perhaps coming down as far as the eyes or nose. It is an awesome idea for a bride who wants to wear something on her head that says “bride”, but at the same time does not like a long tulle veil. The birdcage veil is very chic and also has a great retro flavor, which means that you need the right style of wedding gown to pull it off successfully. A slinky sheath inspired by the Golden Age of Hollywood would be marvelous with a birdcage veil, as would a very clean and contemporary gown, but avoid a “princess” style bridal gown. Add some dramatic crystal bridal jewelry for the perfect complement to your headpiece.
Feathers are another wonderful option to wear in lieu of a bridal veil. For a beach wedding, sweep the hair back into a loose bun and accent with a cluster of white feathers tucked into one side. A flat feather headband is a very hot style right now, especially one which features Swarovski crystal accents. Check out pictures of Carrie Underwood's wedding to see how fabulous this style can look. She wore
A big tend at the Spring 2011 bridal shows was ladylike hairdos with large flowers tucked in the back. Brides who cannot afford the splurge on one of Carolina Herrera's stunning gowns can steal her style inspiration by tucking large calla lilies or white gardenias into elegant buns. If fresh flowers are not your thing, consider a beautifully made silk, paper, or feather blossom for a similar effect. Silk flowers made from organza are especially lovely, and often feature a scattering of crystals or pearls in the center to accent the style of the bridal jewelry. It is a nice added detail which adds polish to the bridal ensemble.
Another way to make a statement with your bridal hair jewelry is to choose something with color. Whether it is a large single flower in your wedding colors or a cluster of hairpins in colorful Swarovski crystals, the splash of color will give your accessories a great strong presence, no veil required. Something else that is great about colorful bridal hair jewelry is that it will be the most versatile in terms of wearing again after the wedding day.
From birdcage veils to feathered headbands to statement making blossoms, there are numerous ways to look chic and stylish without wearing a traditional bridal veil. So if a long veil is not to your liking, treat yourself to one of the great alternatives. You will have a polished and elegant look for your wedding, and you will also be true to your personal style.
Bridget Mora
Bridget Mora writes for Silverland Jewelry about weddings, fashion, and trends. From classic to contemporary, we have the perfect bridal jewelry for your wedding at http://silverlandjewelry.com/. Visit today and receive free shipping on any jewelry order over $99.
View all articles by Bridget Mora