The short veil has many names: petal veil, birdcage, fly away, blusher. The good news is, there are no rules anymore about pairing short veils with short dresses. Whatever works is the guideline and has more to do with following proportions and personal style. The shorter ‘fashionista' veil has not only gained in popularity, it's a bridal fashion fixture. My client Monique put it succinctly: "I'm sure glad I chose a birdcage. Now, I won't have to worry about rearranging or when to take it off. I can enjoy my day. " There's something chic, even edgy about a bride sporting one one of these small veils. As early as the 1990s, Vera Wang was matching up short pouf veils with very formal silhouettes. Whether she wanted to show off the extraordinary back details of her gowns or usher in a new look, I don’t know; I only know the juxtaposition this duo created worked. Like Monique, most brides say the number one thing about wearing a shorter veil is, they don’t have to do any adjusting in that switch from the solemnity of ceremony to big time partying hearty. Shorter veils are easy to maneuver around in and stay put whether you’re exchanging vows, cutting cake or dancing. Typically they are made out of either tulle, the standard light weight bridal veiling, or, netting—wider and crisper, offering a more structured and chic look. Since small veils are here to stay awhile, it will be interesting to see what designers come up with the next few seasons with all the new fabrics and materials out there.
