Ethan Walker
Wearing a veil, or mantilla, in the Catholic Church has been a longstanding tradition symbolizing modesty, humility, and reverence for God. While the practice has waned in recent decades, there is a resurgence among millennial Catholics who are readopting the use of veils, especially during Mass. The veil colour can vary, and it is typically secured with combs, bobby pins, or tied under the chin. This act of veiling is a public proclamation of obedience and submission to God and is often accompanied by an interior act of intention, ensuring the focus remains on God rather than seeking admiration.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Veil color | Black, gold, dusty rose, white, green, ivory, fluorescent yellow, chartreuse, burnt sienna, or purple polka dots |
| Veil type | Mantilla, infinity veil, lace veil, scarf, or traditional chapel veil |
| Occasions | When in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, during Mass, or when in a Catholic church |
| Veil as a symbol | Modesty, humility, reverence, surrender to God's will, spousal relationship between Christ and the Church, sanctity and dignity of women, submission to a man within a marriage |
| Veil maintenance | Use combs, mini snap-in combs, or bobby pins to secure the veil in place |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing a veil colour
There are no strict rules on what colour veil to wear to Catholic Mass, and women are free to choose any colour they like. The only exception to this is that it is best to avoid wearing white to a Catholic wedding, so as not to match the bride. Black should also be avoided so as not to appear to be in mourning.
Traditionally, unmarried women and girls would wear white veils, and married, widowed, or divorced women would wear black veils. This tradition comes from Spanish, Italian, and Latina cultures and is not a Biblical or Catholic tradition. Today, any colour can be worn, and some women like to change their veil colour with the liturgical seasons, or to match their outfit.
Some women like to wear veil colours associated with a particular feast day or church celebration. For example, blue is worn for Marian days, white for Easter, green for Saints Joseph and Patrick, and red for Pentecost. Darker purple is worn for Lent, and a lighter shade for Advent.
If you are worried about standing out, it may be best to opt for a darker colour such as navy blue or burgundy, or a more neutral shade such as brown, beige, or grey.
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Veil styles
The wearing of a "mantilla" or chapel veil has been a long-standing tradition in the Catholic Church, symbolizing modesty, humility, reverence, and surrender to God's will. While the practice has seen a decline in recent decades, many millennial Catholics are now choosing to adopt this tradition. Here are some veil styles and tips to consider:
- Infinity Veil: This style is known as the Infinity veil, and it can be worn in various ways, including tied around the chin or in a crisscross manner.
- Circle Veil: The circle veil is a solid anchor and can be secured with bobby pins or combs.
- Lace Mantilla: A traditional choice, the lace mantilla is often worn by Catholic women during Mass. It can be paired with a braid or ponytail, and combs can be sewn in to keep it in place.
- Colour Options: Veils come in various colours, including black, gold, dusty rose, white, green, ivory, fluorescent yellow, chartreuse, burnt sienna, and even purple polka dots. It is recommended to avoid white at weddings to distinguish the bride and avoid black to prevent appearing to be in mourning.
- Matching Outfits: You can choose to match your veil colour to your outfit. For example, pair a grey veil with a grey outfit or a black and blue veil with a blue outfit.
- Headscarves: Similar to Orthodox Christian women, you can wear a headscarf as an alternative to a veil. This can be more manageable when watching children during Mass.
- Hairstyles: Consider putting your hair in a semi-up or fully-up style, such as a bun, ponytail, or braid. This can provide a base for pinning or attaching the veil securely.
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Veil maintenance
Veils come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colours, and styles. You can choose from simple, inexpensive veils to heirloom-quality mantillas. Veils by Lily, for example, offers a range of lace and embroidered mantillas, including authentic Spanish, French, and Italian styles. You can also customise your veil by contacting the store.
When choosing a veil, it's important to consider the occasion and your outfit. If attending a wedding in a Catholic church, it's best to avoid white so as not to match the bride and black, so you don't appear to be in mourning. Black and gold is a great combination for festive occasions. You can also match the colour of your veil to your outfit.
If you're ordering a handmade-to-order veil, select the "Rush" option to ensure timely delivery. Ready-to-ship veils, on the other hand, usually leave the workshop within 3 business days.
To care for your veil, follow any care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Some veils may be delicate and require hand washing or special care. It's also important to store your veil properly when not in use. Consider investing in a storage box or bag to keep it clean and protected.
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Reasons for wearing a veil
The custom of wearing a veil in the Catholic Church has a long history and has signified different things to different people. The practice is believed to have stemmed from the earliest days of the church, as reflected in Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians. The veil is a part of Catholic identity and is commonly placed on top of the crown of the head, cascading down the back.
One reason for wearing a veil is as a symbol of modesty and humility before God. In the past, it was believed that keeping the head covered helped maintain a woman's dignity. Today, although societal standards for modesty have evolved, some women still choose to wear a veil as it makes them feel more reverent.
Another reason for veiling is that it symbolises the unique relationship between a woman and Christ, as well as her husband. The veil represents a woman's beauty, femininity, and dignity. For unmarried women, the veil can also signify a commitment to purity.
The veil can also be seen as a form of devotion and an expression of faith. It is a physical sign that points others to Jesus Christ, indicating that the wearer seeks no praise for herself. The act of veiling is an individual choice and should be done out of love for God, rather than for the admiration of others.
In addition, the veil can be interpreted as a sign of submission to Christ, reflecting the nuptial image of Christ and His bride, the Church. This interpretation stems from the biblical passage where Paul says, "Husbands, love your wives as Christ loves the Church" (1 Corinthians 11:7).
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Veil alternatives
Although wearing a veil is a common practice for women in the Catholic Church, there are alternative ways to cover your head and show your reverence for Jesus. Here are some veil alternatives to consider:
- Headscarves: A headscarf can be a more casual alternative to a veil. You can choose a simple and elegant scarf that matches your outfit or the colours of the liturgical season. Headscarves can be tied in various ways to achieve a comfortable and stylish look while still covering your head.
- Hats: Wearing a hat in church is another option for those who want to avoid a veil. Small, discreet hats or pillbox hats can provide a modest head covering. Just be mindful of the hat's size and style to ensure it doesn't obstruct the view of those around you during Mass.
- Berets: A soft, close-fitting beret can be a stylish and modern alternative to a traditional veil. Berets come in various colours and fabrics and can be worn slightly tilted to one side for a chic look.
- Lace headbands: A lace headband can be a delicate and comfortable option for those who want a more subtle head covering. It can be a good choice if you're looking for something that blends in with your hair colour, providing a discreet alternative to a full veil.
- Flower crowns: For special occasions or outdoor Masses, a flower crown can be a beautiful alternative. Fresh or artificial flowers can be used to create a natural and whimsical headpiece. Just be mindful of the size and avoid overly large flower crowns that may be considered inappropriate for the setting.
Remember, the most important aspect is your interior disposition and devotion, as stated in 1 Corinthians 11:7. The act of covering your head is a sign of humility, submission to God's will, and reverence for Jesus. So, whether you choose a veil or an alternative, ensure that your intention is pure and focused on your love for God.
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Frequently asked questions
The veil is a sign of reverence and surrender to God's will. It is also a reminder of the sanctity and dignity of women and the spousal relationship between Christ and the Church.
You should wear a veil anytime you are in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, whether inside a Catholic church for Mass or just passing through.
The type of veil is less important than your intention and interior disposition. Some women choose lace mantillas for their femininity, while others wear scarves or head coverings similar to those worn by Orthodox Christian women. You may also want to consider the colour of your veil, avoiding white or black for a wedding, and opting for a colour that matches your outfit.
You can use mini combs or snap-in combs to sew onto your veil, or try a crisscross bobby pin on either side. You can also put your hair in an up-do and pin the veil to your hair. Some people also tie the veil under their chin to keep it secure.
