What are the different wedding veil lengths and their names?

Short answer

The main wedding veil lengths are shoulder, elbow, fingertip, waltz, chapel and cathedral. Each name refers to where the veil ends on your body or on the floor, from your shoulders to a long train behind you.

Here are the common lengths and where they fall:

Shoulder length: ends around your shoulders, often used for short dresses or casual weddings.
Elbow length: ends at your elbows, a neat choice for tea length dresses.
Fingertip length: ends at your fingertips when your arms hang down, the most popular and versatile length.
Waltz length: ends mid calf, also called ballet length, and gives a soft sweep without a train.
Chapel length: ends on the floor and extends about a metre behind you, classic for formal weddings.
Cathedral length: ends on the floor and extends much further, often two metres or more, for grand ceremonies.

There are also birdcage veils that cover the face with netting, and mantilla veils that drape over the head and shoulders. The name tells you the length, but the actual measurement can vary between makers, so always check the exact drop in centimetres or inches.

For a legal ceremony in England or Wales, your veil is not part of the legal requirements, so you can choose any length. In Scotland, your celebrant may have thoughts on practicality but not on length. The key is to pick a length that feels right for your dress, venue and comfort.