Unveiled

“Do I really need to wear a veil”, asked one of my cousins. “It’s like being inside a mosquito net and it is so hot”. Maybe she expected that she would really have to wear the veil so she was really surprised when I replied that no, she didn’t have to if she didn’t want one.

Veils were used in ancient times because the marriages were usually arranged and the brides were reluctantly brought to the altar. Their fathers did not want their future son in laws refusing to push through with the marriage on account of either their daughter’s looks or due to her crying. Hence the veil was used to hide her face.

The veil later came to signify purity and chastity. It was said that only a woman who was no longer a virgin would be so brazen as to go down the aisle with her face exposed. In our modern times, the veil no longer represents these. It has become nothing more than a head piece.

That being the case, how would you like to dress your hair for the wedding? Would you prefer to wear a hat? This would be very practical if you are getting married outdoors in the bright sunshine. After all, the bride can’t wear shades during the wedding - well maybe not can’t but it would be most unusual.

There are many hat styles that you can choose from. A pillbox is stylish. The wide brim is great especially if the sunlight truly is very bright. A sailor brim is chic and adds just a touch of personality and style. Best of all, if you feel you must give way to family pressure and have a veil, you can have some silk, satin and lace placed on it as a design.

Without a veil, more can be done with your hair. Instead of a simple chignon you may wish to leave your hair down in waves. Some flowers or ribbons can be woven into your hair to accentuate its beauty and tie in as well to your theme. This is a favorite among young maidens.

For a more sophisticated look, you may wish to have your hair partially upswept. Think of the medieval times when the women would wear jewels in their hair. This is a great way to show off your beautiful neck and shoulders and it still highlights your hair. Just make sure that everything is secure so that you can have a great time at your reception without fear that your hair do will fall apart.

Let us not forget the option of wearing a tiara. Every queen needs a crown even if they are only queen for a day. Would you like one similar to that of Audrey Hepburn? Or would you rather wear an heirloom piece? There are many beautifully crafted pieces available that will truly add to your radiance without being too gaudy.

Of course, simplicity may just be your thing and you’d prefer to go with a simple French twist and just one beautiful hair piece to accentuate it. It is a truly classic look. Though it will tend to be on the plain side. Best way to decide, bring your wedding dress over when you go for your trial hair and make-up session and let an expert help you decide, though in the end it really will be your choice.

[tags]wedding,veils,hair style,jewelry,tiara,hats[/tags]