Unsure what to wear to a funeral? Variety Funerals™ offers a comprehensive guide to traditional & modern funeral attire, cultural variations in mourning colours, and tips for dressing respectfully.

Choosing Funeral Attire and Funeral Outfits can feel like a delicate task amidst the emotions of a loss. This comprehensive guide explores traditional and evolving funeral dress codes, cultural variations in mourning colours, and practical tips to ensure you show respect to the deceased and their loved ones.

Understanding Traditional Funeral Colours:

  • Black: A Timeless Symbol of Respect: In Western cultures, black is the most widely recognised colour for Funeral Attire and Funeral Outfits. Its sombreness signifies dignity and respect for the deceased. Black’s neutrality avoids drawing attention to oneself and keeps the focus on the occasion.
  • Shifting Trends: A Move Towards Personalisation: While black remains a common choice, some contemporary funerals adopt a more personalised dress code. This may reflect the wishes of the deceased or the family’s desire for a more celebratory atmosphere. It’s always best to follow the family’s wishes, which may be communicated in the funeral notice or through direct communication with a family member.

A Look Back: The History of Black Funeral Attire and Funeral Outfits:

  • Roman Roots: Historians trace the earliest documented use of black at funerals to the Roman Empire. During this period, citizens donned black togas to mark the death of a loved one.
  • Queen Victoria’s Enduring Influence: Queen Victoria’s extended mourning period following Prince Albert’s death in 1861 is believed to have significantly popularised black Funeral Attire and Funeral Outfits. Her decision to wear black for years and her preference for black mourning veils heavily influenced fashion trends of the era, solidifying black as the go-to colour for funerals.

Dressing with Respect: What to Avoid:

  • Revealing Clothing: Opt for modest attire that covers shoulders and knees. Avoid overly sheer fabrics, low necklines, or short hemlines.
  • Casual Footwear: Sneakers, flip-flops, or sandals are generally considered inappropriate for funerals. Opt for dress shoes, boots, or polished loafers.
  • Loud or Offensive Clothing: Graphics, slogans, or suggestive designs are best avoided. Funerals are a time for reflection and respect, and clothing should reflect that.
  • Excessive Jewellery: Keep jewellery minimal and tasteful. Large, flashy pieces can appear distracting or disrespectful.

Beyond Black: Cultural Variations in Funeral Colours:

While black remains a common thread in many cultures, other traditions utilise different colours to symbolise mourning:

  • East Asia & Europe: White is sometimes used in East Asian and European cultures, symbolising purity and rebirth. This tradition can be traced back to the 16th century in France, where white was worn by bereaved children and unmarried women.
  • South Africa: In South Africa, red has been chosen to represent the struggles of the apartheid era and the bloodshed during those years. However, it’s important to note that red is generally avoided in China as a mourning colour.
  • Thailand & South America: Purple is associated with royalty and spirituality in many cultures. In Catholicism, purple robes are worn during Lent and Easter to symbolise the pain and suffering of Christ’s crucifixion. In Brazil, Catholics wear black and purple together for mourning, while in Thailand, purple is reserved for widows, with all other guests wearing black.

Finding the Right Attire: Practical Tips

  • Check the Funeral Notice: Families may specify preferred attire in the funeral notice. This could be anything from “traditional black” to “business casual” or even a theme reflecting the deceased’s personality.
  • When in Doubt, Ask: If you’re unsure about the dress code, it’s always respectful to enquire with a close friend or family member of the deceased.
  • Research Cultural Customs: For funerals of another culture, take some time to research their traditions regarding mourning colours and attire. A simple internet search or a conversation with someone familiar with the culture can ensure you dress appropriately.

Additional Considerations:

  • Weather: Consider the weather conditions when choosing your outfit. If the service is outdoors, dress for the expected temperature and potential precipitation.
  • Comfort: While you want to look respectful, it’s also important to feel comfortable throughout the service. Choose clothes that allow for ease of movement and sitting for extended periods.

Variety Funerals™ – Here to Support You

At Variety Funerals™ we understand that navigating funeral arrangements can be a complex and emotional experience. Our compassionate team is here to guide you through every step of the process, from creating a meaningful funeral service as part of our Variety Plus package, to offering guidance on respectful Funeral Attire and Funeral Outfits.

Contact Us today if you have any questions or require assistance planning a dignified and personalised farewell for your loved one.