3 Colors You Should Never Wear to a Funeral: A Guide to Dressing with Respect and Sensitivity

In times of mourning, clothing says a lot, even when we say nothing.While customs vary across cultures and faiths, there are three colors that, in most Western traditions and many others around the world, are best left at home on days of mourning.Let’s honor the moment by knowing what not to wear and why.✨💛🚫1. Bright red: the color of celebration (not mourning)Why it’s inappropriate:Why it’s inappropriate:Red symbolizes passion, energy, love and celebration, even danger.In many cultures it is worn at weddings, parties and joyous events.At a funeral, bright red can seem jarring, attention-seeking, or even offensive, as if one is celebrating while others are mourning.Cultural context:In China and India, red is worn at weddings and births, but is avoided at funerals (where it is traditionally white or black).In Western cultures, bright red stands out sharply against darker tones, unintentionally drawing attention away from the service.✅Best choice: Deep burgundy or maroon may be acceptable in some modern spaces, but only if muted and paired with neutrals.💬When in doubt: If red makes you feel “seen,” it’s probably not the right choice.