How many Sundays has it been now that you have felt that pull on your heart to wear a veil and still have yet to do it? You are not alone. No matter how deep your conviction it can be intimidating to actually make it happen. Whether it was encouragement from a priest, personal conviction from Corinthians 11:5-6 or deep admiration for that devout family that sits in front of you at mass, you know how the Holy Spirit drew your heart towards this beautiful and ancient tradition. So if you think it may finally be time to do something about it, here's some advice to help you along the way
Choosing your veil
First things first, you are going to need a veil to wear. There are several different types to choose from. In fact, you don’t need a traditional mantilla, it is perfectly acceptable to opt for a scarf or a hat. My grandmother even told stories of pinning on a handkerchief in a pinch. Although there are no set guidelines, you should take some care when considering what to wear. Just as we dress nicely to reflect the dignity of the mass, it is appropriate to choose a head covering that shows this as well.
Color
Though not a set rule, traditionally unmarried women wear white or light veils while married women adorn black or darker ones. There are many other acceptable colors that fall between these that can be worn by anyone for example blue or tan. You may want a color that complements your shade of hair or the tones you tend towards in dress. Just remember, the purpose is to increase reverence and humility, not create a distraction.
Type
If you decide to go with a traditional mantilla chapel veil there are still several options to choose from. More traditional long veils drape over the shoulders, while shorter styles may stop below the chin or even sit only on the crown of the head. Some women prefer the infinity style which is connected on both ends leaving an oval opening. This style removes the concern of keeping the veil centered which means it can easily be taken on and off.
How to Wear a Chapel Veil
When it comes to wearing a chapel veil, here are a few simple tips:
- Frame: Place the veil so that it drapes over your head. The position can vary depending on preference. You can adjust it to sit comfortably, either at the crown of your head or slightly further back.
- Fasten: Secure your mantilla firmly to prevent it from slipping during Holy Mass. Many women use bobby pins to help prevent movement. A falling veil can be very distracting - especially if you are sharing a pew with littles!
- Forget: Wearing a chapel veil may feel unfamiliar at first, but remember its purpose is to enhance your sense of reverence and focus. Center your attention on the Lord and overtime you won’t even remember you are wearing it!
How to prepare
Before veiling for the first time, it is important to take time to reflect on your personal disposition. Are you choosing to do this out of a true devotion or are there other less pious motives such as perceived pressure or pride. One who covers their head out of vanity clearly fails to grasp its essence. Along with that, are you dressing in a way that aligns with veiling? Covering your head can't compensate inappropriate neck and hemlines.
If you have completed proper discernment and wish to proceed but are still feeling hesitant, you may consider some smaller steps to ease yourself in. Consider veiling while adoring the Blessed Sacrament or while attending a daily mass. This will allow you to acclimate yourself to the practice in a more intimate setting.
Wrapping it up
Hopefully this has helped you clear up some of your trepidation around veiling and gave you some concrete steps you can take to make it happen. Whatever the reason, if you feel called by the Holy Spirit to undertake this practice, don't overthink it. Choose a style and color that resonates with you, and feel free to start small. Trust that with time, it will become natural.