Catholic Veils: The Meaning Behind this Tradition and How to Wear Them

Catholic veiling, also known as mantillas or chapel veils, are more than just a beautiful accessory. They are a visible expression of reverence, humility, and love for God. For centuries, women in the Catholic Church have veiled as a sign of devotion - especially when entering a sacred space. Today, this tradition is being lovingly rediscovered by a new generation.

At The French Wedding Veil, we offer handcrafted Catholic veils that honor this sacred practice while complementing each woman’s individual sense of faith.

Catholic woman wearing a white lace chapel veil during Mass in a traditional church setting

Why Do Catholics Wear Chapel Veils?

Chapel veils had been a part of Catholic identity for nearly 2,000 years. Women covered their heads in church as a sign of modesty, dignity, and respect for the sacred - especially in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament. While the tradition declined in the 20th century, many millennial Catholics today are embracing it once again.

We veil as a sign of humility before God, and we do it anytime we find ourselves inside a Catholic church, where the Blessed Sacrament is reserved in the tabernacle.

For many, putting on a chapel veil is an outward sign of an inward reality - a personal decision to surrender to God’s will and proclaim that He is the Lord of our lives.

What Is the Purpose of Catholic Veiling?

In early Catholic tradition, veiling reflected the spousal relationship between Christ and the Church. It also symbolized the sanctity and dignity of womanhood. For married women, it represented a wife’s submission to her husband within the sacrament of marriage.

Over time, the veil’s meaning has evolved. Today, it is no longer seen as a symbol of subservience, but rather as a sign that what is veiled is sacred and worthy of reverence.

We veil things that are holy:

The altar and tabernacle, which house the Real Presence of Christ
The chalice, which contains the Precious Blood
And similarly, a woman’s head, which reflects the gift of life and love she carries

By veiling ourselves, we proclaim our sacred identity and affirm the dignity of being created in God’s image.

Young Catholic woman in a white lace veil kneeling in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament

The Biblical Significance of Veiling

The practice of veiling finds strong support in Scripture. In 1 Corinthians 11:4–16, St. Paul encourages women to cover their heads while praying or prophesying:

"If a woman does not cover her head, she might as well have her hair cut off... but if it is a disgrace for a woman to have her hair cut or shaved off, she should cover her head."
(1 Corinthians 11:6)

This passage inspired the centuries-old tradition of veiling in Christian worship. For early Catholics, and for many today, veiling is a way to live out biblical reverence and modesty. It also influenced women’s attire throughout the Middle Ages and in Catholic cultures around the world.

Close-up of a catholic veil draped over the head and shoulders in an historical italian painting

Catholic Veils for Brides

Catholic brides traditionally wear veils as they walk down the aisle - not just as a fashion statement, but as a continuation of the chapel veil tradition. It’s a way to honor God, acknowledge the sacredness of the marriage sacrament, and visually reflect the Church as the Bride of Christ.

Many brides choose chapel-length or cathedral-length veils trimmed in lace - some even resembling traditional mantillas - to capture both elegance and spiritual meaning.

Bride walks down the aisle with a mantilla wedding veil in her hair.

When and Where to Wear a Chapel Veil

While many women begin veiling at their wedding, others wear veils during:

Mass or adoration
Confession, baptisms, or confirmations
Holy Days, feast days, or pilgrimages
Private prayer

Some women veil occasionally; others make it part of their daily practice. The decision is personal and prayerful.

Catholic women veiling in reverence during Latin Mass, wearing traditional mantillas

What Women Say About Veiling

Women today veil for many reasons. Some say it helps them enter into deeper prayer. Others describe a feeling of "authentic femininity," inspired by the quiet strength and humility of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Many simply say they feel more focused and reverent when veiled, like removing a hat during a national anthem.

Choosing the Right Veil

When selecting a Catholic veil, consider the following:

Length: Shoulder, elbow or chapel
Material: Lace, tulle, or fine netting
Color: White or ivory for everyday use
Style: Scalloped lace mantillas, vintage-inspired cuts, or minimalist designs

At The French Wedding Veil, we offer both ready-to-ship and custom veils designed to reflect your spiritual journey and personal style.

How to Wear a Catholic Chapel Veil

Wearing a chapel veil begins with intentionality and care. Typically, the veil is draped over the crown of the head so it falls gently along the back or over the shoulders. The key is to place it so it feels secure but natural—never tight or distracting. Lightweight veils made of lace or tulle can be held in place using discreet bobby pins, small hair clips, or even a neutral-colored headband underneath. This helps ensure your veil remains comfortably in place throughout the Mass or prayer service without slipping or requiring adjustment.

When removing your chapel veil, it’s important to do so gently and respectfully. Lift it slowly from the back or sides to avoid tugging at your hair or snagging the fabric. Some women like to keep a dedicated pouch in their bag to store the veil safely between uses. Treating the veil with care reflects the reverence with which you approach this sacred tradition—mindful both of the physical material and the spiritual meaning behind it.

Close-up of a handcrafted mantilla veil draped over the head and shoulders before Holy Communion

Preserving a Sacred Heirloom

Your chapel veil isn’t just an accessory, it’s a spiritual keepsake. We recommend storing it in acid-free paper inside a soft garment bag, away from light and moisture, so you can pass it on or wear it for years to come.

Catholic Veils: The Meaning Behind this Tradition of Grace and Devotion and How to Wear Them