Why you shouldn't wear red to a funeral. Wearing red to a funeral can be a sign of disrespect. It will give others a completely wrong impression if you wear a bright and bold colour to a funeral, as this goes against the dark, muted colours associated with sadness and mourning.
Wearing dark grey or deep blue is just as appropriate as black, while brown and lighter greys are suitable for the vast majority of funeral services. However, unless specifically requested by the deceased or their family, you should avoid any bright colors such as yellows, oranges, pinks, and reds.
Guests at a Chinese funeral wear somber colors like black. Bright and colorful clothing, especially red, must be avoided as these colors are associated with happiness. White is acceptable and, if the deceased was 80 or above, white with pink or red is acceptable as the event is cause for celebration.
Unless the family of the deceased has stated otherwise, you should avoid wearing bright coloured or bold clothing to a funeral; if in doubt, choose something smart and neutral.
It's generally acceptable to wear non-black clothing, such as dark blue or gray. Stick with subdued colors and fabric textures so that you don't pull attention away from the person who is being honored. Avoid red, bright pink, orange, yellow, or other bright colors.
From Wikipedia, “The color red is frowned upon in the time of mourning, it is believed that those who wear red within 9–40 days will die or suffer illness.” And for traditional families, “The immediate family wears black.
What is appropriate clothing for 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.
Avoid dressing in casual clothing, such as athletic wear, tank tops, or shorts. Skip the flip-flops, tennis shoes, sneakers, or boat shoes. Remove the neon necktie, purse, or accessory. Shy away from wearing jeans, even black ones, because they are considered too casual for a funeral.
Wearing bright colors to a funeral is generally considered to be a sign of disrespect to the family. Instead, choose a muted color palette of navy, charcoal, or black. Opt for a black dress when possible. Remember, anything that stands out is best to be avoided.
Pink: admiration, appreciation, elegance, grace, love (often used at the funerals of women or children)
Red – South Africa
In South Africa, red has been chosen as a colour of mourning to represent the apartheid era and the bloodshed during these years.
What to Wear at a Japanese Funeral (Ososhiki) Black is the color of mourning in Japan. While in the recent years dark blue and dark gray is becoming more acceptable, black is still preferred over all other colors.
Trimming hair and nails
Generally, this emanates from the belief that nails and hair were given to the children by the deceased as a parent and as such they shouldn't be trimmed during the mourning period and after the burial. At least you should wait for 49 days.
Each color can impact the people around you, but you should strongly consider using red to succeed and prosper. This vivid and cheery color is associated with our primal survival and signifies strength and resilience. Subconsciously red inspires and helps the wearer to take action and succeed.
Roses. Just like lilies, roses are a very common and appropriate funeral flower, and each color rose has a slightly different connotation. White roses are the ultimate symbol of spirituality, purity, and innocence. At a funeral, the classic deep red rose evokes love and grief.
Brown shades, lighter grays, and other earthy colors are acceptable for most funeral services. Be sure to avoid bright colors including yellow, red, pink, orange, and white.
Is It Rude to Wear White Clothing to a Funeral? Traditionally, the color white symbolizes new beginnings, purity, and innocence. This is often the case in western cultures such as the United States and Western Europe. However, in some cultures, white is the color of mourning.
If you can't wear black, some staple colors to wear at a funeral are dark and muted tones such as navy blue, charcoal, deep greys, maroons, deep purple, etc.
Dark or muted dresses are traditional and don't take attention away from the service. Shoulders should be covered in most cases. Skirts and dresses should reach the knee. Suits are also considered respectful and appropriate.
"Talking or being on your phone during the service is one of the most disrespectful things you could do at a funeral," says Myka Meier, Beaumont Etiquette founder and etiquette expert. It's important to be as present as possible. "Silence your phone, shut off your phone, or even just leave it behind.
Most common funeral etiquette practices for women to wear include a dark or black skirt suit or pantsuit; a skirt of appropriate length or pants and a top with sleeves, a blouse, or a sweater; flats or pumps. In some cultures, and religions women wear hats to funerals.
Many people don't know what to wear to a funeral. You can ask guests coming to the funeral to wear colours of their choice or stick to just one colour, such as your loved one's favourite. Go as colourful as you feel is appropriate. Feel free to go to town or be more subtle.
Grey, navy and brown are all formal, non-black colours. Muted floral patterns can also be a good choice for women, such as a floral dress or blouse.
You Don't Have To Wear Black
However, colors like dark grey, dark blue, darker green, white, and beige can be appropriate. If you don't own any black clothing, you may always opt for a subtle hue that is appropriate for formal settings. In addition, stay away from anything with distracting patterns or prints.