We all know that the rule when it comes to funerals is to wear black and be decent in decorum. Traditionally, black is the ultimate color of mourning, a tradition dating back to olden times when one would wear black for a period then move on to darker color until finally they got to the bright in the color wheel: a process that would take even years. How unfortunate and somber for someone who loses two or three relatives in between years they might end up wearing black for a very long time.
No matter the complexion of your skin, black is one color you cannot go wrong wearing. Designers have discovered this and black is the new chic. Away from the conventional themes of sadness and somber moods, black is now the color that describes style. It is worn to the office, evening parties, cocktails, brunch meetings and many other occasions. The rule of wearing black to funeral scan be broken and many people are organizing burial ceremonies with a strict no black rule. Either as rebellion from the norm or to honor the deceased, non-black funerals is increasingly popular.
It is easy to wake up in the morning, put on a black skirt, dress or pantsuit, and pull a jacket over it and look decent for a funeral. This is not the case when you expressly do not have to wear black. The choice of color and how to accessorize it can become a nerve wrecking issue. I have been in a similar predicament when I had to attend the funeral of my spouse’s relative and you can imagine the state of my hair after I was done pulling at it. The thought of all his family being there was enough to torment my wardrobe. Unlike me, I do not want you to spend hours searching but pull off the perfect ensemble in an instant. Here are the five top lessons I have learnt:
- Don color with subtlety
The allowance of color does not allow you to go all out and wear a neon yellow dress. Wear color with elegance and keep away from bright or loud colors. Any color from the red, green, blue to the darker browns and maroon is acceptable but blend in with the crowd instead of bringing attention to yourself. Stick to the pastel shades regardless of the color you chose. The only color out of bounds is white unless you are attending an Asian funeral whose traditional funeral color is white and even then ask beforehand.
- Accessories
The rule of subtlety applies to all accessories and makeup. Wear nude makeup or something close to your natural color and keep it to the basics. Eyeliner and lip-gloss can do for this day. Keep the accessories simple opt for studs to large hanging earrings. Opt for the clutch to the trendy bag and keep the bangles to a minimum.
- Stick to basic designs
The problem with colorful clothes is they tend to embrace more fashionable design away from the traditional look. Try as much as possible to avoid a celebrity look despite the color and dress down to an office look. Keep away from clothing with stripes, flowers or other loud print. The basics of a plain but fitting skirt suit or pantsuit are acceptable.
- The beauty of the jacket
Sometimes, the timing of a funeral can catch you off guard and you have nothing to wear in the wardrobe. With limited time, the best option is to look for a simple dress and throw a jacket over it. Ensure the jacket is basic and blends in with the dress. The point of the jacket is to cover up the loud outfit underneath. It beats logic to have apery dress then throw over the latest leather jacket in red.
- Decency is a priority
A person who wears right red or green will be forgiven but not the lady who wears a low cut grey mini dress. Above all, ensure you are well covered. Funerals have a knack of assembling the most diverse of characters from the old to young and the liberal to the conservative. The last thing you want is to upset the mother, uncle or father of the deceased. Avoid anything revealing, low cut, too short open backs are not acceptable.
All in all, the secret to wearing color to a non-black funeral is maintain decency and stick to the basics!
Erica McPherson is a fashion blogger and believes that black evening dresses should be more popular than they are at the moment. She likes writing dressing tips for various occasions.