What To Wear To A Funeral

Traditionally, funeral etiquette suggests men and women wear black clothing that’s conservative and respectful.

Black or dark colours are most common, but some cultures expect mourners to wear a less traditional funeral colour.

Wearing black to a funeral is generally acceptable across Western society. However, not all cultures consider black the appropriate colour for a funeral.

For instance, black is considered inappropriate at a Hindu funeral or Sikh funeral; instead, mourners (both male and female) are expected to wear white.

Red – in South Africa, red is sometimes worn as a colour of mourning. For a Ghanaian funeral, it’s traditional for members of the community to wear black and white while the immediate family will wear red and black.

Purple – in Thailand, purple represents sorrow and is often worn by widows during the mourning period. Purple is also worn in Brazil alongside black.

Grey – in Papua New Guinea, a widow applies a stone-coloured clay to their skin while mourning their husband.

Bright colours – many African, Caribbean/West Indies, humanist and non-religious funerals in the UK and across the world will opt for more vibrant colours. Wearing bright colours to a funeral can reinforce the celebration of life.

Subdued colours like grey, maroon and navy blue can be a good alternative to black.

Regardless, it’s best to speak to a family member regarding what they want you to wear.