21 Unexpected Bridal Hoods for Every Type of Wedding

Right this way for one of our fave veil alternatives!

By
Rachel Varina
Rachel Varina
Rachel Varina
Rachel Varina is a social media, digital marketing, and editorial expert with over seven years of professional writing experience.
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Updated on 11/03/21

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bridal hood

Courtesy of @cedarandpines

Deciding on your wedding day accessories is the key to pulling your entire look together, but selecting options that feel unique can be tricky. From show-stopping earrings to blinged-out bracelets, there’s a lot to consider—but no matter your style, chances are there’s one accessory you’ve definitely got on your mind: a veil. Some brides love them, some brides hate them, and some brides wonder whether they have to wear them (spoiler alert: you don’t!). So, if you’re not a fan of traditional veils and want something a little more dramatic, or have always been in love with the style, bridal hoods are a fantastic veil alternative. 

Generally, bridal hoods come in either cloak, cape, and (yup!) veil options, which add plenty of whimsy to your wedding day look. From soft lace, barely-there options to heavy fur designs, bridal hoods come in a variety of styles perfect for every venue, season, and aesthetic. 

7 Wedding Day Looks You'll Wear Long After Saying "I Do"

Whether you're getting married in a winter wonderland setting or just want a whimsical accessory to add a little extra pizazz to your look, we've rounded up the best bridal hood options you’ll want to wear again and again. 

01
of 21

Most Environmentally Friendly: CostureroReal White Vegan Wool Hooded Cape

Courtesy of Etsy

Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy

If you dream of rocking a wool cloak but want to be a little more animal-friendly, this exquisite hooded cape is made from rich vegan wool that feels just like the real thing. Perfect for cold weather events where you want to be warm and snug. 

02
of 21

Best Natural Silk Option: Nap Gauzy Robe

Courtesy of Nap

Courtesy of Nap
Buy on Naploungewear.com

Made from sheer, luxurious natural silk, Nap’s Gauzy hooded robe is ideal for wedding days, relaxing days, and all the days in between (which means you’ll absolutely use it after your "I dos"). The dropped shoulders and flounce poet sleeves add a dreamlike element you’ll call upon again and again. 

03
of 21

For a Celestial Affair: WhiteSwanDesign Wedding Cape

etsy

Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy

If you want a thin, gauzy cape that won’t cause you to overheat, tulle is definitely the way to go. And this delicate hooded option from Etsy is adorned with glitter and celestial motifs that'll glisten under the stars.

04
of 21

For a Country Wedding: ColorTheWorldArt White Satin Bridal Cape Wedding Cloak Veil Handfasting

Courtesy of Etsy

Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy

Made from an upcycled wedding dress, this satin hooded bridal cape from Etsy features a dramatic train, scalloped edges, and sequin/beaded floral patterns. 

05
of 21

Best Breathable Satin: BEAUTELICATE Store BEAUTELICATE Women's Wedding Hooded Cape Bridal Cloak Poncho Full Length

Courtesy of Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon
Buy on Amazon

It’s hard to beat the luxe feel of satin, especially on your wedding day, and this hooded bridal cloak will make you feel truly special. If you’re a fan of the style but want to spice up your hue, choose from a variety of colors including black, red, and blues. 

06
of 21

For a Winter Wonderland Wedding: Milanoo White Faux Fur Coat Hoodie Women Faux Fur Cloak

Courtesy of Milanoo

Courtesy of Milanoo
Buy on Milanoo.com

Faux fur from hood to toe, this soft white cloak from Milanoo—which also comes in ivory—is a winter wedding favorite. The top-of-the-line craftsmanship and rich fabric will keep you cozy in any brisk, snowy venue.

07
of 21

Best Allover Lace: Maryhadalittlelace Bridal Lace Cape With Hood

Courtesy of Etsy

Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy

Delicate eyelash lace, an exquisite hand-sewed structure, and a light breezy feel make this hooded bridal cape ideal for any wedding event—from warm weather celebrations to even pre-ceremony boudoir photos. 

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08
of 21

For a Fairytale Wedding: Portsvy Women's Long Wedding Cape Hooded Cloak for Bride Lace Edge

Courtesy of Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon
Buy on Amazon

If you picture a storybook entrance, a hooded cloak in place of a veil is the way to go, and this satin option from Amazon is both convenient and covert-worthy. Reviewers love the dramatic length, lace edging, and customization options. 

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09
of 21

For the Contemporary Bride: Fashionmeme Celestial Bride Veil Star Mesh Cape

Courtesy of Etsy

Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy

This soft, sheer mesh cloak will make you feel straight out of a modern bridal shoot with its raw edges, ethereal lightweight feel, and sparkling glitter gold (or silver) stars that add some subtle shine to your day-of look.  

10
of 21

For the Regal Bride: BamaMountainlaurel Wedding Bridal Renaissance Hood

etsy

Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy

Handmade with elegant tulle, this hooded veil is an Etsy best-selling and favorite amongst brides. The opulent material and fantasy-style train will make anyone feel like a queen on the big day.  

11
of 21

Most Playful: Technodolly Druid Lily Wedding Cape With Pixie Hood

Courtesy of Etsy

Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy

Whimsically made of the softest jersey chiffon, this lettuce-edged cape has a mandarin collar, pixie hood, and Norwegian Clasps fasting details—which comes in either silver or gold. It'll make anyone look like they stepped out of an enchanted forest. 

12
of 21

Best Blush Option: FlirtCoutureDivision Chiffon Hooded Cape

Courtesy of Etsy

Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy

Light, barely-there chiffon makes up this hooded cloak available on Etsy, ideal for a veiled look sans traditional veil. Select the style in a no-white hue (like blush), to add a fun, unique pop to your day-of look. 

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13
of 21

Most Romantic: capeandcrown13 Floral Rose Bridal Cape

Courtesy of Etsy

Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy

Turn up the elegance with a hooded bridal cloak that exudes romance. The traditional-looking silky white cloak is by an interior floral fabric and faux fur trim. Not only is the style reversible, but the same concept comes in a variety of hues and patterns so you can find one to perfectly fit your wedding ambiance. 

14
of 21

For Retro-Lovers: Milanoo White Cloak Faux Fur Acrylic Cloak

Courtesy of Milanoo

Courtesy of Milanoo
Buy on Milanoo.com

Calling all vintage-obsessed brides! This knee-length, hooded faux fur cloak from Milanoo will make you feel like you stepped out of a black and white film—whether you wear it for your ceremony, reception, or when jetting off on your honeymoon. 

15
of 21

For a Holiday Wedding: Colorful House Wedding Cape Hooded Cloak for Bridal, Winter Long Bridal Wraps Warm Cape

Courtesy of Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon
Buy on Amazon

If you’re getting a spouse for the holiday season, leaning into the festive vibe is a spectacular way to get into the spirit. December brides continue to gravitate toward this red and white hooded cloak from Amazon, one that’ll keep you feeling merry and bright while saying “I do.”

16
of 21

For the Glamorous Bride: MyElegantBridalShop Hooded Luxury Bridal Cape

Courtesy of Etsy

Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy

Detailed lace, top-of-the-line tulle, floral appliques, and hand-embroidered details create a hooded bridal cape unlike any other. Pair with a simple floor or knee-length gown to really allow this one-of-a-kind cape to shine.  

18 Short Wedding Dresses for Your Ceremony, Second Look, and Beyond!
17
of 21

Most Chic: DressInFelt Bridal Cape With Hood, Felted Wool Cape, Hooded Bridal Capelet

Courtesy of Etsy

Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy

Timeless, debonair, and fiercely flattering, this felted wood bridal capelet adds an extra touch of sophistication and class to any bridal look—whether you’re rocking a beautiful ball gown or a sleek jumpsuit. The best part: It’s custom-made to ensure the best fit and feel.

18
of 21

Most Unique: CostureroReal Stained Glass Cloak With Hood

Courtesy of Etsy

Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy

There’s no rule that says you have to stick with a white hood on your wedding day. This magnificent chiffon cloak features a stained glass window pattern that adds an extra ceremonial nod to your wedding day aesthetic. 

37 Unique Wedding Dresses You Probably Never Knew Existed
19
of 21

Most Whimsical: MarryBridalUS Sparkle Star Moon Bridal Cloak Silver Shimmer Stars

Courtesy of Etsy

Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy

Whether you’re a celestial-obsessed bride or your love story was simply written in the stars, this striking hooded tulle cloak comes in a variety of lengths from elbow to regal cathedral, all of which showcase shining stars and moons.

20
of 21

Most Unexpected: Lingweave Long Tulle Vintage Cape

etsy

Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy

Your wedding’s the time to select a truly special statement piece, and this unexpected black hooded cape will certainly make an impression down the aisle

21
of 21

Best Open Arm Option: MariaMadeShawl ​​Chiffon Hooded Wedding Cloak

Courtesy of Etsy

Courtesy of Etsy
Buy on Etsy

Many bridal hoods come with cloaks or capes that generally cover the arms. If you want a goddess-like bridal hood that leaves your arms free and provides plenty of romantic drape, this chiffon option from Etsy will make you feel like a modern goddess.

FAQ
  • Should I wear a bridal hood?

    Bridal hoods are a wonderful option for brides who aren’t fans of traditional veils or are having cold-weather celebrations. If you’re taking photos in the snow, a heavy hood will not only help you stay warm, but it’ll add a magical, fairytale-like quality to your day-of look. 

  • Are bridal hoods expensive?

    The good news is bridal hoods are typically a little less expensive than standard wedding veils, but as with most accessories—depending on where you purchase, what you’re looking for, and the level of craftsmanship you expect—the cost can vary. Typically, you can expect to pay between $100-$250 for the average bridal hood. 

  • Can I wear a bridal hood and a veil?

    Your wedding day means your rules, and there’s no right or wrong way to dress for the event. That said, because both veils and hoods are worn atop the head, opting for both at the same time may clash. If you want to rock both options, consider a veil for the ceremony then switching up your look for photos or the reception by donning a hood.  

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