Veil Lengths Explained: Find the Perfect Fit for Your Wedding Dress
Your complete guide to choosing the perfect veil for your dress, your day, and your style.
When you picture walking down the aisle, there’s one accessory that instantly adds romance, softness, and a little bit of magic: the veil.
Whether you’re dreaming of something dramatic and regal or soft and subtle, choosing the right veil length can transform your entire bridal look. But with so many options, where do you start?
This is your complete veil length guide — made for Australian brides. From shoulder-length to royal drama, we’ll walk you through every style so you can feel confident, excited, and a little bit obsessed with your final choice.
In the photo:
Bride: Katie Mcdougall wearing our Pearl Veil, 90”
Photography by: @katyfiona_photography
Dress Store: @meshki
Short & Chic: Shoulder, Elbow, and Waist-Length Veils
25" Shoulder Veil
Best for: Tea-length dresses, garden weddings, or relaxed bridal looks.
This sweet, minimal veil skims the shoulders and suits simple silhouettes or non-traditional celebrations. Easy to wear all day, and fuss-free.
30" Elbow Veil
Best for: Strapless gowns, detailed bodices, off-the-shoulder styles.
Romantic without being overwhelming, this veil finishes at your elbows, balancing softness with structure.
35" Waist Veil
Best for: Ball gowns and dresses with defined waistlines.
This veil lands at your waist — flattering for dresses that flare out or have dramatic skirts. It adds movement without competing with your gown.
In the photo:
Bride: Molly Webster, wearing our 25” White Glimmer Veil
Photography by: @captivelightphotovideo
Elegant and Easy: Fingertip & Ankle-Length Veils
45" Fingertip Veil
Best for: Nearly every gown style. Timeless and universally flattering, this is one of the most popular choices for Australian brides. It offers length without getting in the way and looks incredible in photos.
70" Ankle Veil
Best for: Sleek, modern dresses and brides who want some length without going full-train. This in-between option flows beautifully without touching the ground — ideal for indoor and outdoor weddings alike.
In the photo:
Bride: Michelle Miller wearing our 70” Ellie Ivory Veil
Photography by: @katcherryphotography
Soft and Flowing: Floor, Ballet & Chapel Length Veils
80" Soft Floor Veil
Best for: Minimalist or train-free gowns. Skimming just past the hem, this is a great choice for coastal weddings or relaxed venues where you still want elegance without extra weight.
90" Floor Veil
Best for: Slim-fit gowns, especially with subtle trains. Touches the floor exactly, adding grace and glide to every step.
108" Ballet or Waltz Veil
Best for: Brides who want a long veil they can move in. Mid-calf to ankle length, this is perfect for twirling, dancing, and wearing through the whole night.
120" Chapel Veil
Best for: Gowns with small to medium trains. Flows just beyond the dress hem — perfect for church weddings or romantic photo ops without overwhelming the gown.
In the photo:
Bride: Katie Mcdougall wearing our Pearl Veil, 90”
Photography by: @katyfiona_photography
Dress Store: @meshki
Full Drama: Cathedral & Royal Length Veils
130" Cathedral Veil
Best for: Dramatic entrances, ornate gowns, and formal venues. The iconic “trailing behind you” veil — breathtaking for ceremonies and formal portraits. Most brides remove it for the reception.
144" Royal Veil
Best for: Bold brides and couture gowns. Nearly 4 metres long, this is true statement length. Ideal for grand venues, staircases, and editorial-style photography.
In the photo:
Bride: Rebecca Sawyer wearing our 144” Ivory Glimmer Veil
Photography by: @matt_edwards_photography_
Dress store: @bridesoftoowoomba
Tips for Choosing Your Veil Length
Bring your gown (or photos) to your fitting. Seeing it together makes everything clearer.
Think about your venue. Grass, sand, steps, or small rooms all affect how your veil will behave.
Decide when you’ll wear it. Ceremony only? All day? That can help narrow your options.
Match your vibe, not just the dress. You might want a bold veil with a simple dress or a short one with a dramatic train — it’s all about what feels right.
Custom Bridal Veils, Made for You
At Rachel’s Custom Sewing, we create custom veils right here in Queensland — loved by brides all across Australia. You can choose:
Length
Lace or pearl edging
Crystals or embellishments
Comb or tie-on style
Fabric weight and colour
We’ll guide you through every choice, show you samples, and make sure your veil complements your gown perfectly.
Want help choosing your perfect veil?
Book a fitting with us in Toowoomba or send through a photo of your gown. We’ll walk you through the options, try a few on, and create something beautifully you.
Need more inspiration?
Follow us on Instagram @customsewing.au for real brides, behind-the-scenes looks, and new veil styles as they’re made.
