From reading eulogies to tossing flowers in the grave and sharing condolences, there are several customs associated with funeral services. This extends to what mourners wear to the somber occasions. In the United States, people often don black attire for the following reasons. 

Black Is Historically Associated With Mourning

The idea of wearing black as a symbol of mourning in Western culture dates back to the Roman Empire. In Against Vatinius, M. Tullius Cicero mentions black togas were worn at funeral services.

Wearing black mourning dresses became popular during Queen Victoria’s reign, as she wore the color from 1861 to her death in 1901 to symbolize her grief over the death of her husband, Prince Albert. This trend spread to other parts of the world.  

Religion Factors Into What People Wear

Different religions associate different colors with mourning. In the United States, 70.6% of people practice Christianity, which uses black to symbolize death. When attending a Hindu funeral service, attendees are expected to wear white.

In this religion, wearing the color associated with purity is meant to pay respect to the deceased and their surviving family members. Depending on where Buddhism is practiced, the family might wear white while mourners wear black or vice versa. 

If you need to plan a funeral service for a dearly departed loved one or want to secure your own arrangements, contact the prompt, compassionate staff at family-owned-and-operated Willow Funeral Home, LLC. Located in Willow Springs, MO, the funeral directors have been helping families in Howell, Texas, and Douglas counties say final goodbyes to those they’ve lost since 1915. The professionals will handle every aspect of planning, even showing you an array of beautiful wooden caskets handmade by artisans in the local Amish community. Learn more about the funeral services online and call (417) 469-3141 for a consultation. Keep up with announcements on Facebook.