What is a Mantilla Wedding Veil?

Mantilla veils are a traditional type of wedding veil, favoured by Spanish, Latin and Italian cultures. A timeless and elegant bridal accessory, this type of veil is commonly embellished with lace and decorated with appliques, embroidery or elaborate beading.

The History of Mantilla Wedding Veils

Mantilla veils have a rich history, steeped in romance and sophistication. From the late 16th century onwards, they were a popular accessory for Catholic women attending Mass to cover the shoulders, which carried through to weddings too.

In traditional Spanish cultures, the mantilla is worn over the head and shoulders over a large decorative hair comb called a peineta. The peineta not only holds the hair in place but creates the illusion of extra height. In Eastern Orthodox churches, it is often worn with the ends crossed over the neck and draped over the opposite shoulder.

In modern times, mantilla veils are now most often seen at weddings, or worn for religious occasions such as Holy Week.

What Does A Mantilla Veil Look Like?

Mantilla veils are traditionally circular, featuring a thick lace trim along the edge and intricate embellishments at the front. They are worn on the top of the head, a couple of inches behind the hairline to allow for the lace edges to frame the bride’s face and cascade down her shoulders.

Traditional mantilla veils are most often rendered in scallop lace and can be chosen in a range of lengths, including cathedral and chapel length. Additional beading and embellishments can also be added to the veil to add a contemporary twist to the classic aesthetic.

How Do You Wear a Mantilla Veil?

Mantilla veils are placed over the head, usually over a hair comb to create height and to secure it in place. This kind of elegant and sophisticated veil can work with all types of hairstyles, except for high buns. This is because of the placement of the veil, which should be draped over your head to ensure the embellished edges frame your face.

Once you’ve chosen your hairstyle and perfected the placement of a mantilla veil, it should be secured with the help of hair pins to make sure it doesn’t slip off during any part of the day!

Find Your Dream Veil Today

Here at Lace & Favour, you’ll discover a gorgeous selection of veils in a variety of styles and lengths to suit every bridal style and to also match your chosen dress perfectly. If you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, contact us today and we’ll do our very best to help!