A wedding veil symbolises a lot things, from the bride being pure or not having a child to a recently discovered reason: to scare off demons.
According to MetroUK, wedding veils started being a thing in Roman times when brides were covered from head to toe in a massive red veil called the ‘flammeum’.
The Romans were scared of evil spirits popping into the wedding ceremony to curse the couple so they thought making it look like the bride was on fire, by covering her in the red veil, would scare the demons off.
We're not too sure how effective or necessary the practice was, but we're definetely glad it left us with this accessory that adds a bit of spice (be it drama or glamour) to any wedding gown.
While we're in an inspired mood since the start of the Africa Fashion International (AFI) Johannesburg Fashion Week held at the Sandton Convention Centre, we wanted to reminisce about the AFI Cape Town Fashion Week and a wedding trend that came out of it.
READ MORE: 5 unconventional trends we already can't wait to try from AFI Fashion Week
La Art Neviole Emporim took the wedding veil to the next level with these designs when it showed at the fashion event and we managed to pin down the creative mind behind this reimagination of the wedding essential.
Speaking to us about these veils that are sure to make even the most attention deficient wedding guest focus on the bride, bridal couture designer, Neville Masondo, of La Art Neviole Emporim shared some of the inspiration behind the veils that were showcased.
READ MORE: Here are 4 of our favourite wedding gowns from recent weddings
“I was inspired by African women. Since all brides want hair, no attention is given to bold brides. I love the collection so much and I wanted to introduce something different which will stand out by using turbans and adding sparkles," he says.
When choosing a veil for your gown, Neville recommends assessing your budget before selecting your prefered look as affordibility will often determine the style to go for.
Here are four veils you are likely to see bold, fashion-forward brides wearing this wedding season:
The net veil
This veil which is recommended to be worn with a ball gown is inspired by 1920s fashion. The bride for this veil is one looking to add simplicity to a dramatic dress.
READ MORE: Trending weddings: Here’s how brides get their weddings to trend on social media
Head-beaded turban with tassels
Also known as a fringe turban, the veil is for the fashion forward, dramatic bride. The unconventional veil can be worn at the reception of the wedding with a traditional gown to add that a modern feel.
The hat veil
This veil came out of a collection that was designed for different brides from different ethnic groups. Inspired by the Fall/winter 2019 Dior collection, the veil can be worn with a vintage dress. The hat veil resembles the style of women in the 1950’s.
READ MORE: WEDDING SEASON: Five wedding trends for 2019
The pearl beaded iscolo veil
This veil is perfect for a bride who wants to feel bridal but still incorporate a traditional feel to her dress.
Which veil is your favourite? Tell us here
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