Bold, elegant and vantage veil

It is with hearty laughter that we remember the days brides donned veils long enough for the groom to wrap his shoulders with. Enter the birdcage veils, a vintage classic that is a total departure from the past, writes NJOKI CHEGE

Brides are stepping back into vintage era of the 1920s and 1930s by wearing stunning headpieces, sending whispers through the audience as they make their way down the aisle to the awaiting groom.

The birdcage veil is an accessory that not only guarantees you the simple vintage look, but a touch of class as well. Brides, who want something different are embracing this new trend that guarantees an effortlessly glamorous look with an aura of mystery.

As a result, brides are moving away from the traditional veil, considering the birdcage offers varying options  of colours, style and detail. In some instances, it is cheaper compared to veils, such as the cathedral veil that has a lot of detail.

Olive Ochola of Nzinzi House of Design confirms that birdcages and fascinators are slowly replacing the traditional veil, thanks to brides who wish to express their personal sense of style with the trendy headgear.

“Some brides wear a traditional veil for the ceremony and a birdcage veil/fascinators for the reception. It all depends on one’s tastes and preference,” says Olive.

 

Before choosing a cage veil, certain aspects come into play, notes Esther Muchene, a wedding planner. You need to consider factors such as your face and body shape, your wedding gown, the hairstyle you will have and how formal your wedding will be.

Says Muchene: “For example, an extravagant veil can complement a simple gown while a detailed gown would work well with a simple birdcage. If you have a simple hairdo, you can play around with a dramatic veil to bring out your hair and face.”

Generally, a birdcage veil sits side-to-side and the netting can run down to near the nose or lower near the chin.  You can also have a trendy angled birdcage netting that partly covers your face.

“Birdcage veils are made from different types of netting and can be attached to your hair with a comb or pins. The veils can be adorned with jewelled or pearled brooches, feathers or a combination of both,” says Olive.

 

VARIATIONS

Some veils come with a blusher, an angle or wedge, which covers the eyes. Others cover the eyes while the longer ones cover the whole face.

The netting includes English merry widow, Russian or French netting, with the later being common.