Is it still compulsory to wear black at funerals?

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Funeral processions usually show mourners dressed in black. But do you have to conform to this common color choice or can you wear other colors instead of black?
Do you have to wear black to a funeral and if so, do you have to wear all black? Many mourners probably ask themselves these two questions shortly before a funeral. For a long time, this color was predominant at funerals. But has anything changed?

Do you have to wear black to a funeral?
While you can look around your closet more freely for other festivities such as birthdays or anniversaries, black has been the predominant dress code color at funerals until now. But why and has anything changed?
Why was black clothing desired for funerals until now?
In the past, we opted for black at funerals to honor the deceased. This is because it used to be expensive to dye clothing fabrics black. Accordingly, these garments were noble. Choosing them at funerals was a way of showing that the deceased was worthy of being dressed in such fine clothing. It was a way of paying their last respects.
As a result, many years later, we still usually wear black at funerals. But has anything changed nowadays or is elegant black clothing still necessary at funerals?

Do you have to wear black to a funeral?
Linda Kaiser, deputy chairwoman of the German Etiquette Society, explains that classic mourning attire is no longer compulsory. Nowadays, hardly anyone would have one. Mourning finery, for example, a dark coat over the dress, which was worn if you couldn’t wear black clothing to the funeral, is hardly ever seen anymore, just like hats. Furthermore, mourners are no longer expected to buy black clothes, especially for this sad occasion.
Instead, people are now allowed to switch to everyday clothing in muted colors. This could be a dark shirt or dark jeans, for example. In addition to black, the recommended colors include grey, dark blue, brown and, in some regions, green, such as loden green in Bavaria.
But you should bear this in mind: The closer you were to the deceased, the darker and more conservative your clothing should be. Even in rural areas, the classic funeral dress code is often still very important. If you are attending the funeral of someone who you know was very conservative, then dark to black clothing is most likely the best choice.

What dress lengths and cuts are allowed at a funeral?
“A funeral is not an occasion for a big fashion show. It’s about paying respect to the deceased and paying your last respects. The outfit is not the focus,” says Kaiser.
She goes on to explain that it is therefore better to avoid styles that are too form-fitting or clothing that is very revealing. This is especially true in churches or chapels. You can remember that, at best, the décolleté, shoulders and leg above the knee should be covered. Shorts, even if they reach above the knee, are not recommended at a funeral.
What shoes do you wear to a funeral?
When it comes to shoes, choose the model you would like to wear to a funeral. These can be pumps, boots, low shoes or sneakers. Combined with dark stockings, they are appropriate, says Kaiser. However, it is recommended that the shoes be the darkest part of the outfit.
Do children have to wear black at a funeral?
And what about the youngest mourners? Should children also wear black or at least dark clothing? The answer is simple: children are also advised to dress in muted colors. But the child must feel comfortable with it, says Kaiser. The clothes should not be a source of unrest or cause an argument.
What can you wear if you don’t want to wear mourning clothes?
Kaiser recommends following the dress code that the deceased person requested, if possible. This would make the connection within the mourning group visible. However, this is not compulsory. Those who cannot or do not want to adapt to the desired dress code can choose normal mourning clothes.
Grief is often also part of funerals. You can read more about this here. Broken heart syndrome: when grief and stress get to your heart.
And have you ever wondered what happens after death? You can see the surprising answer from a medium here.