All About Bridal Headpieces

Anchor your veil with an elegant headpiece, or let its sparkle make a style statement all of its own.

Usually the anchor for your veil, your headpiece can hold it in place for the entire event or allow it to be detached through hooks or snaps. You can also wear your headpiece sans veil for purely aesthetic purposes. Here’s what to consider when choosing a headpiece.

Style

When trying on headpieces, try to bring as much of your wedding day ensemble as you can (dress photos, accessories, veil, etc.) to get the best sense of which style complements your look. You never know what will or won’t work until you put it all together. 

Cost

Bridal headpieces typically cost $20 to $100. Of course, you may find one for less, and you can always pay more.

Headpiece Style Guide

Here’s the lingo you’ll need to know to get started:

Profile (comb)
The profile is an ornamental comb (often featuring flowers, crystals, or pearls) that is worn either on the top or side of the head, or underneath your hairstyle. Profiles can be worn with or without a veil and are a great way to accent a sophisticated updo.

Backpiece
A backpiece is a barrette or comb (often decorated with flowers or beads), fastened to the back of the head, to which your veil is then attached. 

Tiara
A popular headpiece for brides who want to feel like a princess, a tiara is a jeweled or beaded semi-circle that sits on the top of your head. 

Crown
A crown is a full circular headpiece that sits on the top of your head and is usually decorated with stones or beads.

Headband
A headband is a band of fabric that extends from one temple to the other. This classic look can range from simple to elaborate, and is often made of satin, lace, or any fabric to match your dress.

Bunwrap
As the name implies, the bunwrap is a circular band that wraps around a bun or updo.

Juliet cap
A Juliet cap fits at the crown of your head and can be accented with pearls, beading or stones. You can wear a Juliet cap alone or attach your veil to it. 

Snood
A snood is a net that encases a bun at the back of your head and can be made from a variety of fabrics and embellishments. You can attach a veil to the bottom of this headpiece. 

Wreath (or garland)
Wreaths wrap all the way around your head and often feature organic materials such as flowers, greenery, or twigs. This headpiece creates a natural, romantic look.

Shop for stylish headpieces:

Jennifer Behr Bridal Collection
He Knows My Name
Bel Aire Bridal
Austie Eckley
Bows-n-Berries