“Wearing red is often seen as disrespectful because the colour is bold, stands out, can be distracting and takes on a look of festivity rather than sadness.
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.
This tradition is rooted in the belief that red is the color of blood, and therefore symbolizes life. While Westerners often view death as the end of life, Ghanaians see it as a transitional stage. By wearing red to a funeral, they are honoring the deceased and helping to send them on their journey to the afterlife.
Depending on the color of your suit or dress clothes, make sure you wear the appropriate colored shoes to match. Brown shoes go best with a blue, brown, or light grey suit. Black shoes match with a black suit, dark blue, or dark grey suit. Also, make sure to spend a few extra minutes cleaning and shining your shoes.
First and foremost, dress appropriately. This means no jeans, shorts, or tank tops. Instead, opt for dark, conservative clothing. Women should avoid wearing anything too revealing or flashy, and men should make sure their clothing is clean and wrinkle-free.
At the traditional funeral most Australians are familiar with, it is respectful to wear smart, well-pressed clothes in a dark colour. Black has long been typically worn by mourners at a traditional funeral, but dark shades such as navy or grey are also appropriate. A smart work suit or outfit is usually acceptable.
Opt for a conservative, closed-toed pair of heels or flats. The same rule applies for both men's and women's sandals. If your funeral will be taking place in a warm climate, you might be tempted to throw on a pair of fancier sandals or open-toed shoes.
You do not have to wear black unless the specific culture dictates it. A skirt of appropriate length and blouse or sweater is normally appropriate. Flat shoes or pumps are your best choice for shoes. Open-toed shoes or sandals may be appropriate depending on the venue and climate.
Black is the traditional color for funeral services. 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.
Colors such as black, dark gray, and dark blue are common for funeral services. While it's less common, colors such as brown, gray, and earthy colors are also acceptable. For the most part, guests should avoid wearing bright colors such as pink, yellow, and orange.
Other mourners may wear subdued colours when paying respects, with the color red universally considered taboo within 9–40 days of a death. It is believed that those who wear red, which is reserved for happier occasions, will die or suffer illness.
In some cultures, red is the preferred color to wear to funerals. In South Africa and Ghana specifically, red is very commonly worn to funerals. In South Africa, red is considered the color of mourning as it represents the blood spilled during the Apartheid era.
If you wear makeup, you'll want to keep things minimal for a funeral. Stick to light, natural colors and a nude lipstick. Avoid anything featuring bright colors, glitter, or unnatural hues.
Wearing red at a funeral is traditionally frowned upon in Western cultures. However, there are times when it is appropriate. Often, a family will ask guests to wear a specific color to honor the deceased. So then you follow their direction.
So, just as you wouldn't wear bright colors or sequined clothing, lean towards dark and neutral shoe choices. Navy, dark gray, or black is the best color choice for funeral shoes. This is because they pair with most funeral outfits. In addition, black is the most versatile choice for preparing your funeral clothing.
Funeral etiquette says that wearing dark colors to a funeral, including the color navy, is considered a sign of respect for the deceased. Whereas, and in the case of children, some families may request that the guests wear bright colors to celebrations of life—or memorial ceremonies.
Ladies might want to wear heels to go with their dress, but if the service takes place outside on grass, bring along a change of flats. In addition, if you do end up wearing heels, opt for a closed-toe or a shorter heel. If you would wear your shoes to the club, you probably shouldn't wear them to a funeral.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
In regard to funeral attire for men, make sure you match your shoes to your suit color. Brown shoes go best with a blue, brown or light grey suit. Black shoes match with a black suit, dark blue or dark grey suit. Women should also make sure that they prioritize comfort over fashion.
For the shoe color, avoid those shades which are too bright for your good. Colors such as neon pink or bright yellow should be off your funeral fashion list. Instead, opt for neutral shoe colors. Colors such as black, brown, grey, and white are great options.
Brown or black shoes, preferably leather dress shoes. Muted necktie, no bold patterns or bright colours. Long-sleeved, collared shirt; no open collars. Dark jeans may be acceptable in some circumstances.
Not owning traditional funeral attire is no reason to skip a funeral. In fact, we discourage it. You won't be kicked out of a funeral for not wearing a suit, but we suggest wearing an outfit that will blend in rather than start a conversation. (I.e. no shorts, tees and flip flops.)
For women, adding color can be done through patterns and floral designs. Much like with men's funeral attire, color should be used to subtly accent your outfit. Try to make sure that your outfit does not have overly bright colors or wild patterns that draw attention.