YOUR BIRDCAGE VEIL QUESTIONS ANSWERED

The chances are you’ll never have worn a birdcage before and as such you are bound to have a few questions. The following are some of the questions most commonly asked, both to Google (or other search engines) and direct to myself. I’ve kept the answers brief and to the point but I’m always happy to chat further if you want to know more, just get in touch.

So, here goes …

HOW TO WEAR A BIRDCAGE VEIL?

There are lots of answers, mainly determined by how you plan to wear your hair. If your hair is up then a comb can easily be secured, If you have short hair or are wearing your hair down then a headband would be more secure.

HOW DO BIRDCAGE VEILS WORK?

Birdcage veils generally are available in one of two ways. They are an integral part of a design, or simply a plain birdcage veil with no added embellishment that can be worn in conjunction with another piece.

HOW TO SHAPE A BIRDCAGE VEIL?

A well made birdcage veil shouldn’t need shaping, that should be determined by the way it is cut and made. If you really aren’t happy, if it is one from By Harriet, return it for alteration, if sourced elsewhere I would suggest using bobby pins to secure in a better shape.

CAN YOU GET A DETACHABLE BIRDCAGE VEIL?

The answer to this question really depends upon the design. Sometimes the veil does need stitching in place as part of the style or the embellishment is too small to cover the separate attachment, in this instance I’ve sometimes made a second piece the same without the veil to substitute when the veil is removed.

HOW TO WEAR BIRDCAGE VEIL AFTER CEREMONY?

One of the most asked questions. If you’ve paid for a veil and it’s part of your styling you won’t want to take it off straight away but you won’t want it getting in the way. If you are wearing a longer birdcage veil here is a quick tip. Fold the birdcage veil back inside itself in half and secure it with a couple of bobby pins, get a bridesmaid to help. Doing this will create a shorter version of your look. DON’T fold the veil backwards, you’ll look like you’ve been through a wind tunnel and it will detract from any embellishment.

This little video I posted to Instagram demonstrates perfectly, it’s very short so have a quick look.

(Just click on the arrow in the little white circle, on the right, level with my chin)

HELP, SQUASHED BIRDCAGE VEIL? IRONING A BIRDCAGE VEIL?

Once you receive your birdcage veil I’d recommend not storing it in the box, it is better sat where it can stay in shape. If it has flattened then your first option is to waft it in kettle steam (carefully) though if your headpiece has silk flowers be careful as too much steam can cause them to loose shape. This will generally be enough. If it needs a little more and you are very careful, a VERY cool iron can be used. Be careful as most birdcage veils are synthetic and thus the fabric can misshape or melt easily.

WHAT IS A BIRDCAGE VEIL WITH TWO COMBS?

These are most commonly known as “Visor” veils. I must admit I avoid them at all costs as I find they never fit quite right. To stop them sliding down (as the fabric is fairly soft) they need to be pretty close to the face which can result in eye lash tangle, or too loose and they can sort of sag. They are a great editorial look but way less practical in reality.

WHAT LENGTH BIRDCAGE VEIL SHOULD I HAVE?

I generally offer 3 different lengths. Eyebrow skimming that can comfortably be worn all day, nose skimming that can be folded back (as above) when you are ready but won’t stop you having a glass of fizz, it won’t pick up lipstick either! Finally there is chin length for full on impact and as with the nose length, can be pinned under to a shorter length.

DO YOU MAKE COLOURED BIRDCAGE VEILS?

Absolutely, everything is made to order so pretty much name your colour and I’ll sort it!

WHAT ERA IS A BIRDCAGE VEIL?

I’m a lover of historical dress and this answer isn’t strictly correct in those terms. Now a days it is interpretation of styling. I offer a wide range of birdcage veils, one with bows that are “cute” with 50s wedding dresses, elegantly structured feather ones perfect of either a 20’s or modern bride and one’s with more traditional combs or side pieces that work with more classic bridal gowns for girls who don’t want a big veil. I think the real answer is to wear what you love and ask me for advice if you are unsure.

CAN I WEAR A BIRDCAGE VEIL WITH SHORT HAIR?

Totally, I think they work brilliantly on a pixie crop, they can really add a feminine touch or soften a look if required. I’d make it for you on a velvet covered headband that toned to your hair colour so that it would sit discreetly in your hair.

WEARING A BIRDCAGE VEIL WITH GLASSES?

Of course you can, the only caution I’d urge is to weigh up the weight of the veiling fabric used to check that the balance is right against the glasses, I’m happy to chat this through direct as everyone has different glasses, from rimless to full on horn rimmed 50s one.

WHERE CAN I BUY A BIRDCAGE VEIL?

I sell on line or in person from my studio, every piece is made to your specifications so just get in touch and we can chat. If you want to try a sample first then that can be arranged, I have plenty of options.

Well, that just about wraps it up for now, if you are still keen to find out more about birdcages take a look at this earlier post, “Let’s talk birdcage veils”

Explore the range of birdcage veils available on By Harriet, but don’t forget that these are just suggested designs which can be fully customised or entirely new bespoke creations can be comissioned.

Until next time!

Harriet x