The Christian Wedding Veil: Ancient and Modern Traditions of the Christian Bride, With An Exclusive View of Elegant Veils
- Isabella Boston
- Mar 3, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 25
A Short History of the Christian Wedding Veil
The wedding veil is probably one of the oldest pieces of the bridal ensemble. It's even older than the wedding gown itself. The veil is a classic piece of clothing that is rich in history. It not only adds a touch of elegance to the bride's gown, but also has sacred and special meaning to godly women who fear the Lord in Christ Jesus.
In the Old Testament, veils were used in the Jewish tabernacles and temples to separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Exodus 26:33). In the book of Genesis, Rebecca covered her face upon meeting her future husband as a sign of modesty and respect (Genesis 24:64-67). In the Jewish religion, a ceremony called the bedeken takes place. During the ceremony, the groom takes a look at his bride and then places a veil over her to ensure that he's marrying the right person. This tradition stems from the story of Jacob, Rachel, and Leah in the book of Genesis from the Torah.
In the modern Christian faith, the wedding veil can be seen as a symbol of unity and intimacy with God, as a Christian marriage represents the union between Christ and the Church. By wearing the veil, the bride can acknowledge her “rejection” of the world and subject her heart to God in Christ Jesus, who will protect her from all evil and harm. (Romans 12:1-2),(2 Timothy 4:18).
Furthermore, in 1 Corinthians 11:2-6, God instructs all Christian women through his humble and faithful servant Paul to cover their heads during prayer and worship as a sign of complete devotion and submission to God's Holy Order and Chain of Command in Christ Jesus. This sacred instruction is not only for wedding ceremonies, but it is to be applied and practiced in our everyday lives. Please read my article "Why Women of God in Christ Jesus Should Wear the Christian Veil.
Styles and Types of Wedding Veils
Single-tier wedding veils: Single or one-tier means that the veil flows from its attachment point (typically a comb) and down the back. There is no blusher, the section of the veil in front of the face.
Two-tier wedding veil: This type of wedding veil includes the blusher, which can be pulled forward over the face. It is raised during the ceremony for the first kiss or at the exact moment you are married, and then it is swept back over the head to form a second layer at the back of the veil.
Waterfall veils: These veils are a cross between a single-tier and a two-tier veil. They give the effect of a beautiful waterfall at the top, but are still sheer enough to see all the details of your dress.
Juliet Veils: This veil features a 'cap' of material that secures the veil in place. This is a traditional vintage look, dating back to the 16th century in England. It is believed the design originated from the actors performing Juliet in the original play of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
Below is the Mantilla Floor-Length Alencon Lace Wedding Veil: This is often a Spanish-style veil, an oval or circular lace veil that covers the head and shoulders, symbolizing modesty and reverence.
Bridal Wedding Veil, Elbow/Fingertip Alencon Lace V036 by Tulip Bridal.
Author’s Bio
Isabella Boston is a wordsmith and the creator of Bella’s Attic Studio®: A multi-media writing platform and storytelling blog specializing in copywriting, marketing, and content writing.
She is well-versed in medical terminology and scientific research with a focus on neuroscience, immunology, and functional health. She is also a diarist, creative nonfiction writer, and self-published author.
Aside from being a writer, Isabella is a book & vintage-fashion lover, a language enthusiast, and, most importantly, a woman of God in Christ Jesus.
"Together we can share your stories, promote your cause, and connect you to your target audience one word at a time."
