You’ve found your dream dress, but, for many, choosing a veil is just as important. Here are some of our tips to keep in mind as you pick this once-in-a-lifetime piece.

No. 1: Ask our staff what looks best.

Our staff has decades upon decades of experience in pairing veils with gowns and, while the decision is ultimately yours, expertise goes a long way! We will always give you advice to help you look and feel your best on your wedding day.

No. 2: Trust your intuition.

While we are more than happy to give advice, you know what you like best – and it’s your day! We want you to leave The White Room with the veil of your dreams with every detail a fit with your aesthetic. Try as many on as you’d like and note which one you look and feel best in.

No. 3: Know your different veil types.

According to Kleinfeld Bridal, there are five main types of veils: Birdcage, made of netting, covering only the face, and perfect for a bride seeking a vintage vibe or having a more casual wedding; elbow-length, which works with most all wedding dresses; fingertip, which falls at or right below the fingertips and is also a favorite; cathedral, the longest and most dramatic of the veils; and mantilla, which frames the face in lace.

Brides adds six more veil types to the mix: The shoulder-length wedding veil; the blusher, also known as an angle veil or a wedge veil, which emotes classic vintage, falling over the face and ending near the top of your dress; knee-length; waltz, also known as a ballet veil, which hits mid-calf; floor-length, which almost perfectly matches the length of your dress; and chapel, which extends slightly beyond your gown.

No. 4: Think about how it pairs with your dress.

Think of a gown and a veil like you and your beloved – a perfect match and an equal partnership, where one doesn’t overpower the other and both work in tandem to make the look flawless. Make sure that your favorite parts of your dress aren’t overshadowed or even covered up by your veil. Example: If you want to accentuate the back of your dress, a shorter veil might be a good idea. Kleinfeld Bridal suggests picking your veil color to be a shade lighter than that of your gown so that it brightens the dress. Slim, fitted wedding dresses work better with longer veils; generally the veil should be slightly longer than the hem or train of your dress.

No. 5: Think about how it pairs with your venue.

A cathedral veil on the beach might not be a good idea. Consider your venue – if you’re in a church, think longer; if you’re outdoors or if your wedding is less formal, consider a shorter veil.

No. 6: Think about your desired wedding day hairstyle.

The longer and heavier your veil is, the more support it will need from your hair, be it a bun, half up/half down, or an updo. Consult your hairstylist! It’s a team effort.

No. 7: Keep your budget top of mind.

Veils are more expensive than you might think, and some may even cost more than your gown! Prices range from the low hundreds into the thousands, so make sure to budget for this important item.

We can’t wait to help you pair your perfect veil with your perfect gown.