Want to know some popular alternatives to veils? Wondering what to wear instead of veil? You’ve come to the right place? We’ll show you the best bridal veil alternatives for wedding ceremony + reception.
What can you wear instead of a veil?
Does the bride have to wear a veil?
Can you put anything on your head and call it a day? Well, not anything, ha!
Today we’re talking about what the bride can wear as another option for a veil because, let’s be honest, a veil isn’t for everyone.
No single style is for every bride, nor should anyone feel like they have to wear something they don’t want to, simply because that’s how it’s always been done. It’s OK to change it up and wear alternatives to veils for wedding ceremonies and receptions!
From bridal fascinators to bridal combs, we’re telling you exactly what to wear instead of a veil.
This post was inspired by bride-to-be, Shannon, who wrote us in our Ask Emmaline inbox. She wants to know what kind of veil alternatives are out there and if she has to wear a bridal veil to her wedding. She writes,
“Dear Emmaline, I’m getting married in a few months and I’m not sure if I want to wear a wedding veil. Does the bride have to wear a veil? What can I use instead of a veil? Do you have any suggestions on what to wear instead of a veil? And also, are veils in or out for 2022? Thank you so much!”
Great questions, Shannon! Let’s walk through this one together.
Does the bride have to wear a veil?
Nope!
If you don’t want to wear a veil for your wedding, that’s OK: every bride is different. Some brides forgo the veil because it doesn’t suit their style or coordinate with their dress. Others don’t want to wear one because they prefer the way a bridal veil alternative looks in their hair. And furthermore, some brides prefer alternatives to veils for wedding simply because they want to.
We’re also seeing some unique veil alternatives for brides with short hair who want to show off their hairstyle.
And when you’re the bride, it’s 100% up to you! :)
There’s no rule that states the bride has to wear a veil. Many brides assume there is only one style of veil, long and to the floor, covering your face entirely. But that’s not necessarily true. One of the more popular wedding veil alternatives of the moment is this little birdcage veil, which is still a veil and adds a little volume, without totally overwhelming your look. (Style by Tiffani Rae Designs.)
However, as a rule of thumb, it is a good idea for the bride to wear an alternative to a veil if she decides not to wear one at all. This is simply because you’re The Bride: you deserve to wear something beautiful in your hair that stands out as, well, bridal.
That doesn’t mean the bride has to wear a veil. A veil alternative is perfectly acceptable.
Now, let’s talk options: you asked what can I use instead of a veil, and we found some choices for you as stylish alternatives to veils for wedding day wear. Before we get to the list, I wanted to answer that last question: are veils in or out 2022? It seems like veils are still as popular as ever for 2022, but that doesn’t mean every bride is going to wear one. We’re seeing just as many alternatives to wedding veils as we are seeing traditional styles, so you can’t go wrong either way you choose!
Now, let’s get to it: here are some choices for what to wear instead of a veil on your wedding day to answer your last two questions.
What are some alternatives to veils for wedding?
To illustrate some alternatives to the classic bridal veil, we’re bringing in some beautiful options from Tiffani Rae Designs, an Etsy designer who creates some of the most beautiful bridal hair fascinators and hair pieces around. Her pieces are custom-made for you, so your wedding veil alternative will be totally unique — just like you!
Some alternatives to the classic bridal veil include the following:
1. Hair Flower
A hair flower is one of the best alternative to veils for wedding day wear, in my opinion. A single bloom of a pretty handmade flower, like this one, makes a lovely hair accessory you can wear with your hair down or in an updo. You can pin it to the side for a dramatic look.
You can even add a small feather detail for a little flair! Check out this option:
2. Halo
One of the most popular boho veil alternatives of the moment is the Halo. This is worn on your head and tied in the back with a ribbon bow, as shown in the example below. This particular halo is named The Rhiannon and features freshwater pearls, precious metal, and a garland of leaflets. It is adorned with a pearl flower so it is perfectly bridal in every way, while still being an alternative to a wedding veil. It is finished in your choice of satin ribbon of white or ivory to match your dress. Love, love, love this one!
3. Headband Alternative
A headband makes a beautiful option to the veil and will become your new favorite accessory piece, particularly when it is made with shimmery golden and clear crystals like this one. Although it is a headband, you can also move it on your hair to be worn more as a tiara, which is also a beautiful item to wear instead of a veil. Either way you wear it, you’ll get compliments all night long! I love the floral design created here in this piece named The June.
4. Bridal Hair Pin
As another veil choice, here’s a hair pin you will also like! It is made with freshwater pearls and rhinestones for a classic bridal veil alternative. This style — The Kimberly — is perfect when tucked into curls or when added to a headband of freshwater pearls.
5. Crown
For a floral-inspired look, turn to the flower crown as a chic bridal veil alternate. You can wear this as a halo style or crown, depending on how you angle it with your hairstyle. This is a great option for brides who want veil alternatives during the reception: you can pair it WITH a veil during the ceremony and then remove the veil and wear this hair crown during the reception. It’s like the reception dress switch, but for your hairstyle. :)
6. Bridal Comb
While bridal combs were initially used to keep a veil in place, now you can wear combs on their own as a bridal option! Instead of a veil, you can wear this bridal comb angled anywhere on your hairstyle, particularly helpful if you have an updo (as a comb is easiest to put into a style with texture and volume to stay put). If needed, you can use bobby pins to keep the comb in place.
7. Bridal Fascinator
And lastly, a fascinator is a popular alternative bridal headpiece. This accessory is large and makes a statement: it is worn on the top of your head and is usually dramatic in color and/or size. This makes it one of the most notable veil alternatives for the bride of the moment. This particular style — named The Delilah — features an assortment of lace leaves and flower blooms, all of which are handmade with traditional millinery techniques. It is all carefully wrapped in fabric for a one-of-a-kind look.
TL;DR
So, is it OK not to wear a veil at your wedding? Absolutely! And I hope this guide helped you to decide whether bridal veils or alternatives are the right choice for you. If you have any additional questions, feel free to ask in the comment box below!
Where to Shop for Wedding Veil Alternatives
If you like these options, you’ll love everything Tiffani is creating in her shop! You can browse designs here. In addition to the alternatives shown in this blog post, you’ll also find wedding veils in her extensive collection here.
Are you rocking a no veil wedding look? Tell us about it in the comments!
Hope it helps!
xo
Emma
Tiffani Rae Designs is a Featured Artist at Emmaline Bride.
