By Lei Lydle, Founder and Editor Last Updated: 8/3/2005 8:42:55 PM

In my opinion, the headpiece and veil are very important because they make you really feel like you are a bride. This may seem strange to you - but just go and try one on - you'll see what I am talking about.

You should know that headpieces and veils are not cheap. Although you may be able to find a headpiece and veil for $50, the average headpiece and veil costs $150+. And, many "matching" headpieces and veils cost $200+.

As a matter of fact the headpiece that I fell in love with when I was trying on my dress cost $275. I couldn't believe it! And of course, I didn't buy it. Being the resourceful woman that I am - I decided that I would make my own. I did and it was beautiful!

Your Headpiece Should Match or Complement Your Gown

Your headpiece should match your dress in color as well as style and decoration. As I mentioned above, many "matching" headpieces can be expensive, but don't fret. Your headpiece doesn't need to match exactly - it should blend or coordinate! Your veil length should coordinate with your gown as well. Obviously, the shorter the dress, the shorter the veil. In addition, if you have a very elaborately detailed gown, wear an elaborate headpiece and if your gown is simple...

And one last tip on this issue - if you have a lot of rhinestones on your dress, do not choose a veil with rhinestones in the tulle. Rhinestones have a tendency to photograph like black dots!!

Your Headpiece Should Flatter Your Face

I think you should try on an abundance of headpieces until you find the one that looks best on you. There are no set rules for what looks good on different face shapes. Many bridal consultants recommend that if you have a round or full face, you should choose a tiara, or tall headpiece to add height. Or, if your face is long and narrow, wear a wide poufy veil to add width. Again - you should get what you think looks good and don't buy some huge veil just to add width!!

Consider Your Hairstyle

Although many young brides wear their hair long, you may want to wear your hair up. Professional sylists can work wonders with your hair if you let them.

Make Sure The Headpiece Fits Properly

This is especially true when your headpiece is some type of hat or headband. If it is too tight, you might wind up with a headache on your wedding day. If it is too loose, you may become worried that it may fall off during the ceremony - thus ruining your perfect day! Try the headpiece on, wear it for a while - turn your head, bend over, walk around, dance, jump up and down! Make sure you can move easily and it doesn't feel like it will fall off.

Choose A Headpiece With A Removable Veil

This is especially important if you want to wear your headpiece at the reception. Many brides don't want to take the headpiece off because it may mess up their hair. If the veil is attached by snaps or velcro, you can remove the veil and continue to wear the headpiece.

Something Borrowed...

Have you filled that "something borrowed" criteria yet? Are any of your friends married? This may be a way to save!

Rent Your Headpiece and Veil

You can rent a headpiece and veil at rental shops for a fraction of retail prices. You can probably find one for $25 - $30+.

Make Your Own

With a little creativity you can make your own. I made mine for $16.

Comments (4)

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Posted by: Sally from Louisiana on 8/3/2005 8:42:55 PM

My daughters red long hair was so beautiful, she didn't even wear a veil.

Posted by: Lei Lydle, Editor from on 11/4/2004 4:49:56 PM

Hi Kim! Thanks for your comments. There are actually entire books dedicated to making your own veil. There are lots of different ways you could go. You might try this book: "I DO" Veils - So Can You When I made my veil, I just went to the fabric store, bought a pattern and the supplies, took it home and followed the instructions. It wasn't too difficult but, then again, my veil wasn't very big or detailed. Good luck! ~ Lei

Posted by: Kim Mason from Anaheim, CA on 11/4/2004 3:25:00 PM

Under the make your own veil section a link or some instruction or how to find instruction would be nice. Wedding Date: 4/2/2005

Posted by: Alicia from Richmond, Va on 8/26/2004 11:29:30 AM

I agree completely that the headpiece and veil really make you 'feel' like a bride. Before I went to try on gowns I decided that I did not want a veil at all. Ours isn't a traditional wedding and I thought it wasn't needed. I found the dress I really fell in love with and then the consultant put a tiara and veil on my head. That's when the tears came. I had felt like just a girl trying on white dresses up until that point. When I had the veil on and tiara atop my head I really transformed into a bride. So, that decided that. It really completes the look. I've made my veil and bought a nice, but cheap tiara at a chain costume jewelry shop. Total cost for both: under $20. Wedding Date: 12/18/2004