If a bridal veil really isn’t your thing, do you really have to wear one? After all, there are plenty of unique wedding headpieces and veil alternatives to choose from instead, like any of these.
I wish more brides felt comfortable with this fact because, the truth is, every bride doesn’t have to wear a veil just because she’s the bride, just as every bride doesn’t have to wear a gown when bridal jumpsuits are sooo much easier at dancing the cha-cha slide in. ;)
Some brides are saying — no thanks! — and skipping right over the veil and choosing a hair comb, headband, hair vine, or wedding headpiece instead.
Others are wearing a veil in its most classic form — and omitting anything sparkly or embellished with crystals.
And then there are brides who are going all-in, striking up a balance between a veil for the ceremony and a headpiece for the reception. You can also wear both together, all day long.
So, skip the veil or don’t — there’s really no right or wrong way to do it! The most important thing is that your style reflects you, so choose whichever bridal veil or alternative that suits yours best. :)
There’s really no right or wrong way to do it. Both are great options for anyone.
And really, isn’t planning your wedding YOUR way really the point?
Headpiece vs. Veil
If any of these options has crossed your mind, you’ve come to the right place to find EXACTLY what you’re looking for with guidance and inspiration for both wedding headpieces and veil alternatives. Here are some frequently asked questions on the topic.
Frequently Asked Bridal Headpiece Questions
Do you have to wear both? Can you wear just one? Let’s answer a few most asked questions about unique wedding headpieces as veil alternatives.
Do you have to wear a headpiece with a veil?
No, you do not have to wear both. You can definitely wear one or the other.
However, just so we’re not getting confused, your veil should come with some kind of hair comb, even the most basic one without bells and whistles (rhinestones and crystals). :)
This is essential to keep your veil in place, as bobby pins cannot properly hold a veil the way a hair comb does, so keep that in mind.
Do you have to wear a bridal hair accessory at all?
I think it’s also important to wear something special in your hair since it is your wedding day. It doesn’t matter so much whether it’s a veil or not; wearing a bridal headpiece is another great way to stand out as the bride.
Can you wear a veil and a headpiece?
Many brides wonder this question: can you wear a veil AND a headpiece?
Yes! You can wear a veil AND a headpiece, no problem. Or wear just one or the other. Luckily, this shop offers unique bridal headpieces, hair combs, and hair clips — plus veils. There are many options you can pair together for a sparkly comb and veiled look, or wear individually as wedding veil alternatives completely.
Now that you know more about both options, some inspiration is in order.
To get you geared up for your wedding day style, check out these unique wedding headpieces below. The designer of Gilded Shadows, Kristen, is an expert in making wedding headpieces and veils (and has been at the forefront of veils and alternatives since 2011). She understands how important it is to achieve your perfect look, whether that means unique wedding headpieces or veil alternatives — maybe even striking a balance with a bit of both.
Her bridal headpieces and hair accessories coordinate beautifully with her veils, but they are gorgeous enough to wear on their own, too.
These caught our eye and we know you’ll love them, but do yourself a favor and browse the entire collection here so you don’t miss out on what could be your perfect hair accessory.
Photography by Kate Anfinson Photography and Shelley Elena Photography.
Wedding Veil Headpieces + Alternatives
1. Bridal Headpiece
This dainty bridal headpiece is sold as one piece (the model below is wearing two of them). It offers just the right dose of sparkle, isn’t too big or too small, and it looks beautiful as a bridal veil alternative. It also pairs nicely with this veil.
2. Gold and Crystal Wedding Headband
You can wear a wedding headband with a veil or without. As you can see here, this style is stunning even when worn individually. I love these stunning gold leaves.
3. Opal Hair Comb with Veil
I love this example: it is an opal bridal hair comb paired with an elegant veil. The comb is hand-wired ith blue tinted opal style crystals. For a nature-inspired look, this piece includes wire with crytal twigs and branches, perfect for a wedding in the woods.
4. Rose Gold and Gold Wedding Headpiece
This design incorporates a ton of sparkle with crystals along with a classic bridal look with pearls. Flowers are mixed in with rose gold and yellow gold accents to pair with your favorite wedding day jewelry.
5. Draped Chain Veil Hairpiece
Ah, this is probably my favorite from the shop: I love how this draped chain holds a wedding veil so delicately in the back.
6. Silver Bridal Headpiece
A breathtaking combination of silver crystals and beaded pearls makes this an instant heirloom piece.
7. Gold and Crystal Hair Combs
And last but not least, this pair of gold and crystal bridal hair combs are lovely in a pair, individually, or worn with a wedding veil.
Where to Shop Veil Alternatives
Want to shop these looks? To purchase yours or view additional hair accessories, shop here!
Photography credit: Kate Anfinson Photography and Shelley Elena Photography.
I hope this article helps you to decide the best wedding accessory for you. And if that means a veil or not, you’re going to look beautiful either way. :)
XO
Emma
