The wedding veil—such a bridal mainstay from time immemorial, in fact, from the days of ancient Rome—finds itself in the midst of a renaissance on the UK bridal scene of 2024. What was long thought to represent a "whisper of tradition" now shouts from runways with a bold new voice, echoing the personal styles of brides prepared to make a statement. The fashion scene has seen the evolution of veils from simple tulle to iconic pieces of bridal couture. And, really, it's time we put this trend in the spotlight.
The veil has traditionally represented not only modesty but also mystery. However, today it is the medium for self-expression. New York Bridal Fashion Week and London ateliers are populating their collections with everything from pops of colour and intricate lace to daring bows and pearlescent details on veils.
This trend exalts the individuality of each and every bride—an accessory that not only brings out the dress but also the story behind it.
Take, for example, Madison Chamberlain, a forward-thinking bridal designer who summed it up: "The veil is an extension of your bridal tale; it's the final brushstroke on your masterpiece." Fact is, veils are now painted in broader strokes, as Chamberlain envisions dominating the bridal scene with bold colours and voluminous textures.
Embroidery, Embellishment, and Elegance
Brittany Bergeron, owner of The Bridal Finery in Winter Park, says the resurgence of the veil pays tribute to both nostalgia and nouveau fashion. "Brides are reaching back through the annals of style and plucking out what resonates with them," she says.
In the UK, designers like Rebecca Andrews design veils that combine classic charm and a modern edge. Testifying to this is the rise of embroidered personalisation, where brides choose to immortalise their wedding date or a sentimental quote in the threads of their veils.
Styles That Sweep the Floor (and the Nation)
Here are some of the veil styles winning brides over.
Colourful Wedding Veils:
Not only the whispered colour of white, but veils bloom with shades. The brides accept all the delicate pastel shades of it and make a bold statement.
Long veils:
The drama of the cathedral veil has returned, but in full pomp. Designers from the UK, such as Sassi Holford, are draping brides in veils that say "much," extending the traditional length so that the result is a show-stopping train of tulle and lace.
Pearl Wedding veils:
Inspired by the treasures from the ocean, pearls add to the veils for a look of understated luxury from Emmy London, one of the best-kept secrets in the UK to bring luminous detail to her designs.
Bow Wedding Veils:
Bows are able to give a flirtatiously sweet look to veils, combining innocence with boldness. In past years, even British fashion house Alexander McQueen has given a nod to this trend, known for their signature combination of softness and strength.
The Comeback Kid of Bridal Accessories
And so the veil is back—back to the future—for it is the motif of the moment, making a sartorial statement as never before. It's not just a piece of fabric but rather a statement to personal style and an emblem of the distinct narrative of the bride. From pretty ornate to minimal, 2024's crown will be the veil. Whether you are wearing a one-of-a-kind number from Rebecca Andrews Bridal or a design fresh from the runway by Sassi Holford, it's one part whisper of tradition and another part shout from the style rooftops. Because it's not just about a walk down the aisle; it's about an unforgettable passage.
As the 2024 wedding season approaches, one thing is certain: the veil is back with a vengeance, new and improved for the next class of brides wanting to make a statement and add a personal touch to their most intimate—and public—day.
