Veil Or No Veil?

After a bride finds her wedding dress, the next question is always, "Veil, or no veil?" Often, the modern woman's first instinct is to shy away from it. She fears the veil symbolizes that she's a "blushing bride" -- a virginal young girl who must be given away when her father lifts the sheer fabric from her face at the altar. She can't see how a wedding veil fits into the reality of her contemporary life.

I always do my best to convince a bride otherwise, because I absolutely love veils! The key is not to think of the veil as a symbol that defines who you are as a woman. Instead, see your veil as a superb accessory to your gown. It is rich with potential for enhancing your wedding-day look -- especially if your preference is to wear an understated dress. The veil amplifies things for that special hour of the ceremony -- and particularly the important moment of your first appearance, which sets the tone for the whole event.

There are many directions you can go to create a stunning effect with your veil. If you are a more fashion-forward woman, you can choose an avant-garde veil, with extra volume and extreme shape, to add dramatic impact. This can be very powerful when paired with a streamlined and understated gown. If you are a classicist, you can bring a touch of heritage to a modern gown with a veil that's trimmed in artisanal lace. Or, if people know you for your sophisticated, contemporary style, wearing a veil that is lightly embellished with crystals can enchant and surprise them, adding a delightful air of magic.

When a bride finds a veil that truly expresses and amplifies her personal style, it's wonderful to see how happily she embraces the idea -- and how she glows with self-assuredness and delight on her wedding day. The beautiful vintage image of Grace Kelly, below, truly captures the impact a bride's veil can make.

Check out Amsale.com for more from the famed designer.