Veil Measurements – Why I Use Both Inches and Centimetres When Designing Your Veil

Ever wondered why I ask for veil measurements in inches instead of centimetres? It’s a question I get occasionally — and one that opens up a surprisingly interesting window into the traditions and tools of bridal design. Whether you're browsing my veils online or preparing to send me your measurements, this blog will explain why both units of measurement have their place in my process, and why it really doesn’t matter which one you choose to use.

Understanding Veil Measurements: Why a Seamstress Works in Inches

The main reason I tend to work in inches is simple: that’s how I was taught. In bridal fashion, and especially in British and American bridalwear traditions, many designers and dressmakers have stuck with imperial units.

Many traditional dressmakers also continue to work in inches, which means when I collaborate with boutiques or seamstresses, we’re often speaking the same language — even if we convert it now and again.

Working With Veil Measurements in Centimetres

I’m fully fluent in both centimetres and inches — and I receive veil measurements from my clients in both. If you prefer to send your measurements in centimetres, that’s absolutely fine. My tape measures include both units, and I’ll either work with them directly or convert to inches depending on the stage of the process.

While I naturally slip between both, you can be confident that I’d never mistake 100cm for 100 inches — they look (and feel!) totally different, and I’m well practised in spotting these things at a glance. It’s this attention to detail that ensures every veil I create flows beautifully and fits perfectly.

Bridal Veil Measurements and Embroidery Design

Interestingly, while I measure veils in inches, I use centimetres when designing the embroidery itself. That’s because my embroidery software — and the hoops used on my embroidery machines — are all set up in metric. It means that once we’ve finalised the veil length in inches, I then translate those details into centimetres for embroidery placement and pattern scaling.

So, when I'm thinking about embroidery placements, spacing between florals, or the perfect position for a line of script — that side of the design is all in centimetres.

Not Sure Where to Start With Your Wedding Veil Measurements?

If you’re not sure how to begin measuring for your veil, don’t worry — I’ve written a detailed blog post walking you through the process: The Perfect Veil Length. It includes tips on working with your dressmaker or boutique, and explains how veil length can dramatically impact the overall look of your design.

Accuracy Matters — And So Does Flexibility

What matters most is not the unit of measurement you use — it’s the accuracy of the figure and the flexibility to work in whatever way feels easiest for you. If you’re based in Europe and work in centimetres, I’m more than happy to do the same. If inches feel more natural, I’m already there.

I’ll always double-check everything with you before we go ahead with any embroidery or production. My process is well-practised, and I’m confident in converting or interpreting your veil measurements correctly no matter the format.

Let’s Talk Veil Measurements

Still unsure what to send me, or how to measure your veil properly? Just get in touch. I love being involved in the process from the early stages and can offer guidance on veil measurements, styling, and design — whether you’re working in inches, centimetres, or somewhere in between.

Contact me here to begin your bespoke veil journey.

Studio Photography by Danielle Veitch