veils

A veil is a piece of fabric worn to cover the head, face, or body, often for modesty, ritual, fashion, or protection. Veils come in many forms and levels of coverage, ranging from hair and neck coverings to full-face veils. They appear in diverse cultural and religious contexts as well as in ceremonial and everyday attire.

In religious and cultural practice, veils may serve modesty or identity functions. Islamic veiling varieties include the hijab (a headscarf covering the hair), the niqab (face covering with eye slits), and the burqa (a full-body garment with a mesh screen over the eyes). Other regional forms include the chador in parts of Iran, the yashmak in historical Persia, and the dupatta or odhni in South Asia. In Christian contexts, mantillas and lace veils have appeared in liturgical or ceremonial settings. In Western bridal fashion, the bridal veil is a separate accessory that ranges from short to cathedral length, often made of tulle, lace, or silk and sometimes adorned with embroidery.

Materials and construction commonly emphasize sheer fabrics such as chiffon, tulle, or lace, sometimes layered or edged with trimming. Veils may be worn alone or with other garments and can be draped, wrapped, or attached to headpieces.

Historically, veiling has signified status, gender norms, or religious identity and has evolved with social change. Today, veils remain a subject of cultural variation and legal discussion in some regions, reflecting diverse attitudes toward modesty, freedom of expression, and personal choice.