In line with most social events in Spain, most Spanish weddings start late (often the ceremony won't start until 7 p.m.) and finish very, very late (or early, depending on how you look at it).
The use of the mantilla (a form of headdress) as an everyday accessory goes back to the XVII century, but the custom has been lost and the mantilla is now sometimes worn by older generations as part of a costume or in religious ceremonies. However, the mantilla is making a comeback in modern times as part of a young bride's wedding attire: brides who want a traditional wedding are opting to wear the traditional lace mantilla instead of a velo nupcial (wedding veil). The mantilla is exceptionally long and can trail several feet behind her traje de novia (wedding gown).