How do I accessorize a veil with a bow?

“Don't allow your accessories to compete,” recommends Folchetti. “If you do choose a bow veil this season, keep it simple with the rest of your look and avoid loud jewelry with a lot of bling.”

Do I have to wear a veil at my wedding?

Veils are a traditional bridal accessory, but there is certainly no requirement to wear one. If you love the idea of wearing a bow, consider ribbons or clip-in bow accessories without the actual veil attachment. Folchetti even recommends trying a “classic, beautifully knotted bowtie used like a headband."

What hairstyles work best with a bow veil?

“A bow veil can be uber chic with a really slicked back hairstyle, pony, or even a chignon , but remember bows are voluminous," advises Folchett. If you prefer your hair down or loose and curly, he suggests going for daintier bows like a ribbon or a headband

11 Best Veils With Bows of 2024

Two models wearing veils with bows — Brides / Alli Waataja

Bows are one of the biggest accessory trends of the year, and for good reason. A pretty bow can add a romantic, feminine finish to any outfit, which makes it the perfect addition to your wedding day ensemble.

Your veil is an understated and elegant way to incorporate the trend into your bridal look. Whether you’re wearing a simple slip dress or a classic A-line gown, a bow veil adds an unexpected accent to your walk down the aisle.

“Bows have been used for generations in couture fashion,” says creative director and destination wedding expert Billy Folchetti. “This season, we see bows making their way back not only in veils, but also in centerpieces, bouquets, and even on cakes.” He notes that veils with bows can add a sweet touch, but he recommends keeping your bows simple to accentuate rather than overpower your bridal look.

To help you find your dream veil for the big day, we researched the best bow-adorned veils across the web, from oversized tulle details to subtle embellishments. We made our final selection based on the quality of materials, length, versatility, price point, and styling options.

Read on for the best veils with bows.

Best Modern

Twigs & Honey Mini Bow Veil

PHOTO: Anthropologie

$180 at Anthropologie

Oversized—but not too over the top—this bow veil offers a modern look for anyone looking for a unique alternative to the traditional bridal accessory. The shorter length makes it easy to pair with a range of dresses and hairstyles, while the delicate layers of tulle add dimension.

Materials: Tulle | Fastening: Comb | Color: Ivory

Best for Up-Dos

Gaios Sierra Bow Veil

PHOTO: Anthropologie

$170 at Anthropologie

Dainty and sweet, this pearl-embellished bow with silky tulle ribbons will be the perfect finishing touch of your bridal hairstyle. We especially love the idea of wearing this with a half-up hairdo or a sleek ponytail. Pair it with simple pearl earrings for a cohesive look.

Materials: Tulle, silk, plastic, brass | Fastening: Clip | Color: White

Most Subtle

Ofrenda Studio Rosetta Veil

PHOTO: Revolve

$227 at Revolve

Minimalist brides will appreciate the subtlety of this veil, which is topped with a bow-tied ribbon that lays flat on the crown of the head. It’s 18 inches long and drapes effortlessly over the shoulders, making it a versatile choice that works with a range of wedding gown silhouettes.

Materials: Tulle, satin | Fastening: Comb | Color: Soft white

Best Sparkle

Gaios Shiny Bow Veil

PHOTO: Anthropologie

$240 at Anthropologie

Glamorous brides will appreciate the eye-catching accents on this party-ready veil. It features a small bow covered in crystals as well as a crystal-embellished trim that will glitter under the venue lights. For an unexpected touch, it's embroidered with the words “Til death do us part."

Materials: Polyester tulle, crystals, silver-plated brass | Fastening: Clip | Color: White

Best Classic

Lulus Dreamy Affection White Satin Tulle Bow Veil

PHOTO: Lulus

$29 at Lulus

Brides with traditional tastes will love the simplicity of this budget-friendly veil from Lulus. At 32 inches long, it has a dramatic look and falls nicely around the waist. This dreamy bow veil would look especially stunning with a classic crepe A-line dress.

Materials: Satin, tulle | Fastening: Clip | Color: White

Most Versatile

Show Me Your Mumu Ari Bow Veil

PHOTO: Show Me Your Mumu

$38 at Showmeyourmumu.com

Simple and chic, this satin bow veil would work with just about any bridal ensemble and hairstyle. Whether you wear it out on the town for your bachelorette party, for your rehearsal dinner, or on the big day itself, it's a great complement to a range of white outfits.

Materials: Satin, tulle | Fastening: Clip | Color: White

Best Oversized

Bridalcoatshop Tulle Bow Bridal Veil

PHOTO: Etsy

$101 at Etsy

Who doesn’t love a little drama? If bold, head-turning accessories are your vibe, you’ll adore this oversized, extra-long bow veil. For boho and black-tie brides alike, this adds a whimsical detail to your big bridal debut. Plus, it can be attached to the back of your wedding dress after the ceremony, so it's a two-in-one accessory.

Materials: Tulle | Fastening: Clip | Color: Ivory

Most Luxurious

Jennifer Behr Berdot Veil

PHOTO: Jennifer Behr

View on Jenniferbehr.com

This designer pick is perfect for brides who want an heirloom-worthy veil that they can keep forever (and even pass down to their children one day). It features layers of high-quality and carefully crafted illusion mesh in varying lengths for a textured look. The long silk ribbon adds a gorgeous, high-end touch.

Materials: Illusion tulle, silk satin | Fastening: Comb | Color: Cream

Best Short Length

Untamed Petals Perry Bow Mini Veil

PHOTO: Anthropologie

$110 at Anthropologie

Sweet and feminine, this pretty bow features a structured satin bow placed on a 19-inch sheer tulle veil. This would work beautifully with a tousled updo or ponytail. Pair it with statement earrings or a dainty diamond necklace to complete the look.

Materials: Tulle, satin | Fastening: Comb | Color: Ivory

Best Headband

Gigi Burris X REVOLVE Corinne Headband

PHOTO: Revolve

$172 at Revolve

If you prefer a more modern accessory to a classic veil, go for a headband adorned with a bow. We love this minimalist yet feminine velvet style that would look stunning with a bridal mini for a courthouse wedding. Plus, the headband will help keep the bow in place from the altar to the dance floor.

Materials: Velvet | Fastening: Headband | Color: White

Best Veil Alternative

Jennifer Behr Tulle Bow

PHOTO: Jennifer Behr

View on Jenniferbehr.com

If a traditional veil isn’t your style, opt for this adorable tulle bow barrette instead. It still says “bride” but with a modern twist. We love the idea of this oversized bow paired with an ethereal dress at a cottagecore-inspired country wedding.

Materials: Illusion tulle | Fastening: Barrette | Color: Ivory

What to Look for in a Bow Veil

Details: Folchetti says to look for a bow veil with subtle details that work to complement, not overtake, your bridal look. “I love the idea of a thick, ivory velvet ribbon tied into a ponytail or braided into the hair—there's an element of romance to this idea,” he suggests. “As I always say, luxury is in the details.”
Fabric: When shopping for your veil, consider what fabrics will work best with your dress. Most veils are made of lightweight tulle, which creates an effortless and dreamy feel. For the actual bow, you might consider silky ribbon, pearl accents, or velvety, oversized pieces. Think about your wedding dress and overall ceremony aesthetic, then go from there.
Length: As with any veil, length is an important aspect to consider. Do you want a mini-length veil that brushes the top of your shoulders? Something dainty that ties around your pony? Or a cathedral-style veil that drapes along the floor as you walk down the aisle?

FAQ

How do I accessorize a veil with a bow?

“Don't allow your accessories to compete,” recommends Folchetti. “If you do choose a bow veil this season, keep it simple with the rest of your look and avoid loud jewelry with a lot of bling.”
Do I have to wear a veil at my wedding?

Veils are a traditional bridal accessory, but there is certainly no requirement to wear one. If you love the idea of wearing a bow, consider ribbons or clip-in bow accessories without the actual veil attachment. Folchetti even recommends trying a “classic, beautifully knotted bowtie used like a headband."
What hairstyles work best with a bow veil?

“A bow veil can be uber chic with a really slicked back hairstyle, pony, or even a chignon, but remember bows are voluminous," advises Folchett. If you prefer your hair down or loose and curly, he suggests going for daintier bows like a ribbon or a headband

Chloe Caldwell is a Commerce Writer for Brides who specializes in shopping and lifestyle topics. She has more than six years of journalism experience writing about all things fashion, beauty, travel, and wellness. For this article, she spoke to a leading wedding expert for their valuable tips and insight:

Billy Folchetti is a creative director, luxury fashion expert, and destination wedding planner. He is the founder of Luxe X Billy Folchetti, a luxury experiences and events curation service.