Blusher Wedding Veils: To Wear or Not To Wear? (2024)

As much emphasis is placed on discovering the wedding dress of your dreams, it's the bridal accessories that complete the final look. Throughout history, wedding veils have become an iconic component of a bride's wardrobe as she makes her grand entrance. While cathedral-length veils may get all the attention these days, blusher veils are a chic alternative, even when it comes to courthouse weddings. A blusher wedding veil covers the bride's face until presented to the groom. While it was worn in ancient times by brides to protect against evil, today it is a symbol of modesty and purity.

Blushers can add an ethereal and beautiful feel to any bridal ensemble—yet more and more brides are opting to ditch the blusher (and sometimes even the veil) altogether. Thinking about adding a face-framing blusher to your big-day look? We talked to Briana Abedi, a senior stylist at Carine's Bridal Atelier, for a dose of insider info that may help you decide if a blusher is right for you.

The History and Meaning of Blusher Veils

This relatively small accessory has quite a history. There are a ton of stories, myths, and legends behind both blushers and veils, with the earliest records indicating the most practical origin—to protect against wind, sun, and sand. Yet beyond that, things get a bit more complicated. It is said that in ancient times, blushers were worn to protect against evil and that, in the times of arranged marriages, they were used as a way to cover the bride's face to prevent the groom from seeing her prior to their wedding.

As time has progressed (well, sort of...) blushers became a signifier of modesty and purity, and the symbolic action of lifting the blusher served as a literal "unveiling" of the bride to her new spouse. In modern times, blushers have become more of a fashion accessory, the cherry on top of a fabulous bridal look. Many brides still choose to have their fathers (or whoever walks them down the aisle) lift the blusher as a way of "giving away" their bride. While the addition of a blusher wedding veil tends to err on the conservative side, contemporary brides like Kate Middleton have pulled it off flawlessly. The juxtaposition between her stunning long-sleeve ball gown and lace veil (and blusher!) could be admired from afar as it created a halo-like effect.

Blusher Veil FAQs

Here's everything you need to know about these iconic veils.

What's the difference between the veil and the blusher?

So many wedding veils, so little time to decipher the difference between them all. Abedi says, "The blusher is an additional, sometimes separate, layer on a veil that can be used to cover the face. A veil can be worn as a single layer with no blusher or double tier with the blusher."

What variations and styles of blushers are available?

As you become more familiar with the various types of blushers available to you, it's important to note that veil shopping isn't a one-size-fits-all experience. "Like the veil itself, blushers can be custom-modified to any desired length. Blushers can be fully attached to the veil (known as a butterfly cut) or cut as a separate layer," Abedi says. Hence why it's important to try on your top veil choices with your wedding dress to see what works.

What are some factors to consider when choosing a blusher veil?

Once you've selected a wedding dress, picking out your bridal accessories will get you one step closer to achieving your dream look. In addition to the style and silhouette of your dress, you'll want to keep in mind the hairstyle you plan on wearing when walking down the aisle. Whether you decide on a classic chignon or romantic waves, how you wear your hair will impact which veil looks best. Last but not least, setting a budget will help you to narrow down the blusher wedding veils available to you. While veils are extremely delicate and lightweight, don't be fooled. On the low end of the spectrum, they can be purchased for around $100, but, in some instances, they can be as expensive as the dress itself.

How many brides opt for a blusher veil?

As with any bridal accessory, a blusher veil isn't mandatory. Modern brides certainly aren't shying away from this classic wedding-day tradition. "It is a very personal decision, so we see a good mix of both. Often times, brides may opt for the blusher but choose not to use it/cover the face. It creates a lovely layering effect from behind," Abedi says. If a look of pure elegance is what you're after, then a blusher veil could be right for you.

Are there any traditions in place for lifting the blusher during the ceremony?

Discuss it amongst your bridal party first, but according to Abedi, how the blusher is lifted—and by whom—is entirely up to you. "This is also a very intimate decision and we’ve seen it done several ways. It is usually either the person walking the bride down the aisle or theirfiancé(e)," she says.

How To Incorporate a Blusher Veil

If you love it, wear it! If you don't, don't. After all, just because you may decide to wear one doesn't mean you accept all the history or tradition that comes with it. It's a great finishing piece to your bridal ensemble and does lend a traditional feel to the big day. If it makes sense with the rest of your look, go for it. It is your day, after all, so be true to you. When in doubt, consult a bridal stylist for assistance. Odds are, they'll be able to jump right in and give you unbiased feedback regarding what works and doesn't work for you. For instance, if you're already wearing a drama-inducing gown, you may want to tone down your veil choice.

"When considering the length of the blusher, keep in mind where you will be holding your bouquet—this is generally the point we reference for a blusher to sit right above. Otherwise, longer blushers (to cover the bouquet) are also an option," Abedi says."We generally would not advise too much detail on the blusher.Trims are fine, but floating lace, beading, or otherappliqué could cast a shadow on your face."