Why did Catholics stop veiling?

The change came from updates to the code of church law rather than a single event. For centuries, a veil was expected as a sign of modesty and reverence during the ceremony. In 1917 the rule was relaxed, and by 1983 the requirement was dropped entirely. Today the choice is yours, and there is no church penalty either way.

Some couples still like the look and the history behind it. A veil can feel like a gentle link to past generations or a way to mark the moment of the vows. Others prefer to skip it for comfort, style or cultural reasons. Both choices are fully accepted in Catholic churches across the UK.

If you want to be sure about what your parish expects, ask the priest or the church office before you decide. Rules can vary by parish, and some places may still have their own local customs. It is also worth checking with your place of worship if you are planning a mixed-faith ceremony, since traditions can differ between churches and ceremonies.