“A bridal veil completes your wedding look”, say our lovely Bianco Brides. Whether you are donning a ball gown or flaunting a tea-length, a breathtaking veil lends the perfect finishing touch. However, a veil has its roots in tradition. Though it complements a modern gown like nothing else, using a veil speaks highly about the traditions. 

If you are also in love with a bridal veil and incorporating one in your look, you must know about the tradition. So, where did the tradition begin anyway? Read on to explore.

What the History Says

It is “the oldest part of the bridal ensemble,” says wedding historian Susan Waggoner. It dates back to the ancient days when brides were wrapped from head to toe, as a representation of chastity. Also, it was believed that a bride’s head covered with a veil kept her away from the evil spirits.

However, some people do not really agree with the idea of evil spirits and simply use the veil as an accessory. Many brides prefer wearing it covering their face (a custom to hide their face from the groom) while others draped it over the back of their hair and dress.

When to Put on the Veil: A Traditional Perspective

May be you are not aware of it, but the timeline of putting on a veil also has its roots in history. If you are getting ready close by the place of your wedding, put your veil on just before you leave the room. It will keep the veil secured and in place. Also, it says to cover yourself before you come out in your bridal look. It keeps the evil eyes away. However, if you are travelling to the church in a car, wear the veil in the car itself. In short, you cannot come outside without covering your head.

When Can You Take it Off

Taking off your veil is totally up to you. Brides who opt for floor-length veils prefer to take their veils off after the ceremony is over. There’s no point in putting on and off a long veil so frequently. You need to be a little at ease with your movement during cocktail hour and the reception. Others swap the longer style veil with the shorter ones to maintain their bridal look while saving their veil stepped on while dancing.

Who Can Help you Remove the Veil

Ideally, it should be the mother of the bride or any close relative who can touch the bride’s head. There’s a belief that a mother’s touch can remove all evils. However, in recent times, brides have personal hairstylists who help them throughout. What you can do is ask the hairstylist to help you remove the veil. However, if you are wearing a floor-length veil, she needs to stick around with you for an hour or two after they're done styling. Many a times, it’s not possible. Also hiring a stylist for extra hours can cost you more. Instead, you can ask your friend or relatives to help you out.

Last but not the Least

Once they remove the veils and the pins holding the comb in place, place all the little things in place, so that you can get it whenever required. After the pins are removed, gently pull the comb up. This will keep your hair in place without affecting it a bit.