So, what is the royal family supposed to wear?
Read on for some strict dress code rules that have been followed at funerals throughout history.
The tradition has been in motion since the ancient Romans.
During their era, they would wear dark-colored togas to let others know they recently lost a loved one.
When the ways of the Roman empire began spreading throughout Europe, this particular tradition spread along with them.
Other cultures noticed the theme of black clothing at funerals and began adopting the style.
Interestingly enough, wearing black clothing at funerals during the Middle Ages represented opulence and wealth.
Wearing black to a funeral isn’t totally mandatory, and there are other alternatives one might consider.
Dark gray, deep blue, and brown are some of the other popular options.
For these reasons, black clothing for non-working members of the royal family is definitely the standard.
These uniforms are typically white, green, blue, or black.
They always have an insignia prominently displayed, which might include medals, decorations, or even awards.
Veils are considered traditional and historical accessories for brides to wear as they walk down the aisle.
Their reasoning is that they want to reinforce gender norms by wearing an item that symbolizes purity and modesty.
In addition, veils have been worn at funerals by members of the royal family.
The outlet noted that Kate also wore a short, black-netted veil during Prince Philip’s funeral in 2021.
With plenty of cameras flashing at royal funerals, black lace veils help shield faces from potential scrutiny.
WhenPrince Philip passed awayon April 9, 2021, his funeral color scheme was a bit different.
According to theEvening Standard, senior royals paid tribute by wearing shades of dark green rather than black.
It was an incredibly small and private affair, with only 30 guests in attendance.
In general, exceptions can be made when it comes to color choices and military uniforms for royal funerals.
According toHatton Jewels, pearls were originally given to Chinese royalty as gifts starting in 2300 B.C.
Pearls became such a hot commodity in the 1st century B.C.
that Julius Caesar even passed a law stating that only the ruling class would be allowed to wear pearls.
People have been wearing pearls as a tribute at royal funerals since well before Queen Elizabeth’s death.
The pearls were thought to represent tears establishing a tradition that has lasted until the present day."
After all, she herself was always seen wearing it.
Nevertheless, according toInsider, pantyhose has never actually been mandatory at royal funerals or otherwise.
To date, there is no written rule about having to wear pantyhose anywhere in royal history.
The trend sort of crumbled during the Gen X and boomer generations.
Most millennials and Gen Z individuals haven’t even thought about wearing pantyhose at all.
Pantyhose has been considered a common staple with their outfits for decades, regardless of any passing trends.
It was apparently the only color Her Majesty would wear at the time.
There’s nothing overly glittery, obnoxious, or outrageous about it.
Women wear knee-length skirts
Short skirts and dresses will likely never be acceptable at a royal funeral.
According to theEvening Standard,Queen Elizabethpreferred dresses and skirts to be on the longer side.
Modesty was a winning way of style for her.
According toSew Guide, skirts have been around since pre-historic times.
it wasn’t until the late 19th century that a distinction between men and women wearing skirts really began.
Since then, skirts have evolved in many ways.
There are a handful of strict rules surrounding when royals are allowed to wear these fancy accessories.
It was designed to hold 2,868 diamonds along with emeralds, pearls, and sapphires.
Not only were they considered a fashion statement, but they also served a practical purpose.
The queen also wore them for modesty, to ensure that no part of the arm was exposed.
Jeans can only be worn on the rarest of occasions.
Wearing jeans at a funeral would never be acceptable.
