Should I hire a professional hairstylist?

It's not required, but if you think you'll need help perfecting your hairstyle, reduce your stress level by bringing in a hair expert. Be sure to schedule a wedding hair trial prior to your wedding day to ensure that there are no surprises the day of.

How long will it take to secure a veil into place?

It depends on the veil and the complexity of the hairstyle that you’ve selected, and the best way to determine how long it will take is to do a test run or two. Whether you're bringing in a hairstylist or plan on doing your own wedding day hair, be sure to allocate enough time so that you're not in a rush.

When should I put my veil on?

It's probably the last thing you'll put on—right before you leave the room to head to the ceremony. If you're traveling from the room you're getting ready in to the church or venue by car, you may want to wait until you've arrived to put the veil on.

47 Wedding Hairstyles That Look Perfect With a Veil

Groom and bride posing for a photo — Photo by GIANNI CAMPOS; EVENT PLANNING BY REBEKKAH ROSADO OF RUNWAY EVENTS / Design by Julie Bang

A veil serves as the classic finishing touch to your bridal hairstyle, second to donning your gorgeous gown. But one important question comes into play before you walk down the aisle: What the heck am I going to do with my hair? Brides need not worry, as nearly every wedding hairstyle can be worn with a veil, but placement is key.

If you're rocking a low bun for the big day, secure your veil underneath the updo for a more unexpected take. Or, if you want your waves flowing in the wind, a cathedral-length veil placed over the head can be very romantic (also very traditional). Simply put, there are no rules. Whether you're contemplating an updo with your veil or looking to show off your long tresses, we have all the inspiration you need.

Scroll on for our favorite swoon-worthy hairstyles to pair with a veil.

01 of 47

Curls Galore

Bride smiling in dress and veil with 3D floral appliquès — Photo by Amy Anaiz; Event Planning by We Do! Collective by Fallon Carter; Hair by Modimel

This bride let her voluminous curls take center stage by cinching her veil a few inches below her crown. We love how the textured dress and gown beautifully complement her natural coils.

02 of 47

All the Romance

Bridal portrait — Photo by KELLY ANNE BERRY

We can't decide what we love more: This bride's trendy blunt cut or her sweeping veil. The look is feminine and romantic to a T.

03 of 47

A Curly Crop

Smiling couple standing together at their ceremony — Photo by ASHLEY SEARS

Fashion designer Carly Cushnie added a veil to the back of her head, allowing her curls to take focus. The voluminous veil balances out the height of Cushnie's 'do.

04 of 47

Fringe Benefits

Bridal portrait featuring bride in tulle dress — Photo by Kristen Kilpatrick Photography

Actress Carlson Young rocked a soft fishtail braid underneath her veil. Her full fringe adds a decidedly French-girl twist to the ensemble.

05 of 47

Pixie Length

Bridal portrait featuring bride with a pixie cut — Photo by HANNAH COSTELLO

Short hair, don't care. A veil can still be worn perfectly with pixie cuts.

06 of 47

Floral Accoutrements

Floral-framed bun with veil — Photo by Andrew Bayda & Misha Moon; Hair by T&A Arts

Undoubtedly romantic, this bride added a gorgeous halo of ivory flowers to frame her ample bun and topped it off with a vibrant veil.

07 of 47

Loosen Up

Sophisticated bride with a ponytail and veil — Photo by Jamie English

Don't be afraid to pump up the volume. As opposed to a slicked-back ponytail, opt for loose, romantic strands.

08 of 47

Classics Never Fail

Newlyweds kissing at the altar — Photo by David Bastianoni; Event Planning by Events by Paulina

A center part and low chignon make for a classic combo, with a veil sweetly tucked in just above the knot.

09 of 47

Go for Gold

Bride wearing an ornate wedding veil — Photo by Tec Petaja

A glossy low bun is stunningly sophisticated, and the lovely pop of gold detail along this bride's veil is a great touch.

10 of 47

Defining Moment

Bride looking out window — Photo by SALLY PINERA

Honey & Silk's Stephanie Liu opted for a veil underneath her loose bun. Ringlets around the face add definition to the updo.

11 of 47

New Heights

Newlyweds holding hands — Photo by Gianni Campos; Event Planning by Rebekkah Rosado of Runway Events

This bride tucked her bangs back and let her hair fall around her shoulders for a retro-glam look. The veil was pinned high above the crown to add height to the 'do.

12 of 47

Placement Is Key

Bride wearing a minimal gown and long veil — Photo by Joey Willis; DRESS, VEIL, & ACCESSORIES by Grace Loves Lace; Hair by Byron Beauty Bar

You can still rock a veil with a laid-back hairstyle. It's all about the placement.

13 of 47

Retro Radiance

Bride and groom standing together — Photo by Sara Lobla

Long, straight locks and a bejeweled headband give this veiled look a retro spin. Keep your strands extra glossy for a radiant and ethereal look.

14 of 47

A Chic Lob

Newlyweds portrait with blunt lob hairstyle — Photo by Chi-Chi Ari; Event Planning by Tiffany Rivera of Simply Breathe Events; Veil by Blossom Veils; Hair by Hair by Fran

A wavy, blunt lob and sweeping veil prove to be a stylish combination.

15 of 47

A Royal Drape

Bride and groom embracing for a portrait — Photo by To The Moon; Hair by Karuna

Draping a veil over a high bun gives off a regal look, especially when paired with dripping hair adornments. This beauty looks positively royal at her multicultural nuptials.

16 of 47

Minimalist Moves

Newlywed portrait feauturing a bride with a long veil — Photo by Bokeh Photography

Voluminous waves and a veil cinched at the back of the head are perfect for minimalist brides.

17 of 47

Pony Up

Cascading veil over ponytail — Photo by Robin Harper; Event Planning by Tara Cathcart of TMC PR; Hair by Matilde Campos

Don't discount the ever-humble ponytail. This bride proves that a low pony absolutely stuns with a veil.

If you plan on rocking a ponytail down the aisle, try a fingertip veil that hits just beyond the hips. This popular mid-length style is a perfect option, as it will complement your hairstyle without overwhelming.

18 of 47

Double Dose

Bride wearing a jeweled headpiece and veil — Photo by David Salim; Event Planning by Design Anarchy Studio

Two hair accessories are better than one. In addition to her veil, this bride enhanced her updo with a jeweled headpiece.

19 of 47

A Blooming Chignon

Vow exchange — Photo by Tony Wodarck; Event Planning by Courtney Tibbets of After The Engagement; Hair by Jen Plus Colour & Say I Do Updos

This bride added a bit of flair to her traditional chignon by cinching a few blossoms just below the veil.

20 of 47

A Lush Look

Bride with beautiful curls and a veil — Photo by Jillian Mitchell; Event Planning by Daniela Navaro; Hair by Karla Flores

These luscious curls were made for a cascading veil. The tiers falling around the bride's face and shoulders bring the focus to her beautiful features.

21 of 47

Turn Up the Volume

Bride wearing a floral gown, voluminous hairstyle, and veil — Photo by Olivia Leigh; Hair by Kelly Miller Hair

Donning a 'do with tons of volume at the crown should not deter you from wearing a veil. This beaming bride is proof that you can have both.

22 of 47

Lively Braids

Bride and bridesmaid laughing — Photo by Mel Barlow; Event Planning by Carole Grogan of Bright Blue Events; Makeup by Megan Lombardi & Megan Mortenson

Liven up your half-up, half-down style by adding a few loose braids at the sides. This will also create a slight anchor for the veil to nestle into.

23 of 47

A Modern Take

Bride in car — Photo by Biancca Wallace; Event Planning by Courtney Tibbets of After The Engagement; Hair by Courtney Nicole

Although this bride is rocking a modern style, the veil is traditionally placed at the top of her head.

24 of 47

Keeping With Tradition

Bridal portrait with cascading veil — Photo by Lisa Poggi; Event Planning by Exclusive Italy Weddings; Veil by Cassandra Silvestro; Hair by Styles by Omar

Speaking of tradition, glamorous curls pair exquisitely with a draped veil cascading over the face making for a magnificent ceremony entrance.

25 of 47

Veiled Plaits

Newlyweds posing for a photo — Photo by O'Malley Photographers; Event Planning by Valley and Co.; Hair by Misbehaven Spa & Salon

This bride wore her hair in a loosely plaited braid down her back and tucked the veil at the base, just at the nape of the neck.

26 of 47

Higher and Higher

Bride rocking a long veil and blue shoes — Photo by Phillip Van Nostrand

A high bun and dramatic veil are a match made in heaven. Also, can we just talk about how perfect those "something blue" shoes are?

27 of 47

A Gilded Touch

This ethereal bride paired a gilded, Grecian-inspired headpiece with her veil for a look that was just as dreamy as her Tuscan nuptials.

28 of 47

A Bridal Bun

Bride with gorgeous veil staring out at the ocean — Photo by HOLLY CLARK; Event Planning by The Lake Como Wedding Planner; Hair by Jennifer Bradburn from Face to Face Agency; Veil by Mira Zwillinger

This bride elegantly draped her jaw-dropping veil over a mid-height bun. We're absolutely obsessed with the results.

Whether you plan on wearing a low bun or mid-height bun, be sure to use a comb or hairpins to fasten the veil into place.

29 of 47

Add Texture

Newlyweds embrace for a photo — Photo by Rebecca Yale; Hair by Trine Juel; Veil by Girl and a Serious Dream

This bride's raked-back natural curls provide both texture and structure to hold up the weight of the veil. The romantic results fit the French château venue.

30 of 47

Birdcage Beauty

Bride with short hair and a birdcage veil — Photo by Ryan Ray; Event Planning by Amorology; Hair by The Salon & Spa at Vision of Tomorrow; Veil by Bridal Reflections

She had us at birdcage veil. What can we say? We love a shorter length and birdcage combo.

31 of 47

A Twisted Take

Ring exchange — Photo by A HEART STRING WEDDING CO.

Add a bit of flair to your beach waves by parting the hair in the middle, and creating two fun twists at the sides.

32 of 47

Bohemian Goddess

Planning on pairing your dress with a flower crown or headpiece? Try attaching the veil to the back of the piece and letting it fall from those points, creating a goddess-like effect.

33 of 47

All About the Face

Bride walking down the aisle — Photo by Hannah Pickle; Event Planning by Grand Events NOLA; Hair by Glam NOLA

If you're looking to achieve a half-up, half-down style, add two or three strands of hair to frame the face.

34 of 47

A Sleek 'Do

Newlyweds on canal boat in Venice — Photo by Bottega 53; Event Planning by Venice First; Hair & Makeup by Makeup by Jane

A slick, low bun is both totally chic and modern. This bride's minimalist hair and veil combo made for a stunning complement to her sophisticated dress.

35 of 47

Au Naturel

Bride with beach waves posing with a bouquet — Photo by Rach Loves Troy; Event Planning by Tara Skinner Weddings & Events; Hair by Salon Aqua; Floral Design by Harvey Designs

Beach waves are a classic. It's no wonder we love them so much.

36 of 47

Drop It Low

Bride with a low chignon and veil — Photo by Lilly Red Creative; Event Planning by Opihi Love; Hair by Reveal Hair and Makeup Hawaii

There's no hard and fast rule that a veil has to be placed above a hairstyle. This particular bride attached hers underneath her chignon for a sweet touch.

37 of 47

Sheer Glam

Newlyweds in white posing in front of Brooklyn bridge — Photo by Amy Anaiz Photography

This bride accented her glamorous waves with a barely there veil. The sheer topper added all the bridal drama without detracting from the equally statement hairstyle.

38 of 47

Vintage Vibes

Blushing bride with a cathedral-length headpiece — Photo by Whitney Darling; Event Planning by RO & Co. Events; Hair by Dry Bar Del Mar; Veil by Untamed Petals; Floral Design by Bloom Babes

This vintage-inspired, cathedral-length headpiece adds a retro flair to this exuberant bride's soft waves.

39 of 47

A Relaxed 'Do

Newlyweds at the altar in front of ocean — Photo by Sara Lobla; Event Planning by Alice Spitalny, Ben Simmons & Charlotte Simmons of Little Island Design; Hair by Jennifer Yepez using Kevin Murphy

For laid-back brides, a relaxed updo with loose strands can still work perfectly well with a veil.

40 of 47

Add Volume

This bride wore her veil at the very top of the crown to add volume to her beachy tendrils.

41 of 47

A Braided Bun

Bride getting ready — Photo by Christina McNeill; Event Planning by Ruby & Rose; Hair by Dreamcatcher Artistry

This bride's interwoven topknot has a veil cascading out from beneath it. The rogue tendrils framing her features add a sweetness to the overall look.

42 of 47

A Darling Drape

A simple updo is instantly brought to life with a veil washing over it in a waterfall-like effect.

43 of 47

A Touch of Romance

Portrait of Bride in embellished cape — Photo by Stephania Campos; Event Planning by Daryl Wilson of D Concierge Events; Hair by Nikki Garcia; Makeup by Stacy Kent

Brushed-out waves are given a romantic touch with the gentle placement of this sweet veil.

44 of 47

A Victorian Veil

Stone Cold Fox designer Cydney Morris draped this enchanting, vintage Victorian silk lace veil over straightened hair with the ends coyly curled inwards.

45 of 47

A Dramatic Blowout

Newlyweds first look — Photo by Flora & Flauna; Event Planning by Tall & Small Events; Hair by Seven Salon

Add drama to a smooth and bouncy blowout by attaching an ample-sized, sweeping veil.

46 of 47

Glossy Glamour

This bride's glossy, dark locks make for a stunning contrast to the creamy, white veil billowing out behind her.

47 of 47

Top Heavy

Chanel Iman Newlywed Portrait — Photo by AMY AND STUART PHOTOGRAPHY; Event Planning by Mindy Weiss Party Consultants

While we've grown accustomed to veil placements at the crown or even nape of the neck, supermodel Chanel Iman makes a serious case for bringing back the voluminous topper and ultra-high placement.

FAQ

Should I hire a professional hairstylist?

It's not required, but if you think you'll need help perfecting your hairstyle, reduce your stress level by bringing in a hair expert. Be sure to schedule a wedding hair trial prior to your wedding day to ensure that there are no surprises the day of.
How long will it take to secure a veil into place?

It depends on the veil and the complexity of the hairstyle that you’ve selected, and the best way to determine how long it will take is to do a test run or two. Whether you're bringing in a hairstylist or plan on doing your own wedding day hair, be sure to allocate enough time so that you're not in a rush.
When should I put my veil on?

It's probably the last thing you'll put on—right before you leave the room to head to the ceremony. If you're traveling from the room you're getting ready in to the church or venue by car, you may want to wait until you've arrived to put the veil on.