It depends on the culture.
· 3 min read · May 15, 2022
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Most people know that socially acceptable funeral clothes fall along the spectrum of dark colors, and yet somehow, there is always that one person who shows up in a bright red shirt, sweater, or other attire.
I usually just look and them and think, What the hell? Are they happy this person is dead? They could have worn anything but RED!”
In most cultures, this is considered taboo, but why exactly?
The main issue with wearing red to a funeral has more to do with cultural context and connotations than anything else. In western cultures, red is often seen as a color of joy, love, and vitality.
It’s the color of celebrations and positive energy. Wearing red to a funeral would be considered inappropriate because it would clash with the somber atmosphere and be viewed as disrespectful.
In some eastern cultures, red is also seen as a positive color, but it carries different connotations. Red represents luck, good fortune, and happiness. It’s not uncommon to see eastern brides wear red on their wedding day as it’s believed to bring them good luck in their marriage.
While wearing red to a funeral in an eastern culture wouldn’t be considered taboo, it would still be viewed as inappropriate because the color carries such positive connotations.
So whether you’re in the east or west, the main reason why wearing red to a funeral is considered bad etiquette has to do with the cultural context and connotations of the color.
In western cultures, red is seen as a happy and celebratory color, while in eastern cultures it’s seen as a lucky and prosperous color. Neither of these associations are appropriate for a funeral setting.
If you’re ever unsure about what color to wear to a funeral, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and stick to dark, neutral colors.
When it’s Okay to Wear Red to a Funeral
On the contrary, in Ghanian culture, red is appropriate and welcomed as it symbolizes deep loss among an individual.
In Ghana, it is customary to wear red to a funeral. This tradition is rooted in…
