Dressing up for a funeral

Dressing up for a funeral may be one of those issues that people do not pay much attention to. However, regardless of whether the funeral they are attending is for a friend or relative, one has to keep in mind that modesty and simplicity are the key aspects here. One should carefully select their attire, ensuring that it accords them utmost respect.

Dress conservatively
Make sure of the numerous traditional wear, the gomesi being the favourite here. Other may be the kitenge, mushanana, and the sharia. Keep in mind that you are attending a funeral, so trashy and revealing clothes are a no go area.

Endeavour to make sure of the maxi dresses, skirts and the lesu, as these will not only provide the much needed comfort but will also create the descent look. One however should opt for the plain of dull colored ones, since the bright colors may turn out to attract unwanted attention.

Angela Nalwanga, a 23-year-old student says, one is supposed to accord the highest level of respect when dressing up to a funeral.

“Many times, there will be elderly and dignified people in presence, so the best way would be to dress in traditional attire like a kitenge or gomesi,” she says.

Simplicity
The outfit one chooses to wear should be simple, formal and if possible plain. Keep in mind that you’re attending a funeral and not a fashion show. One also has to be mindful of the colors they choose, because bright colours may turn out to be attention seekers, which is irrelevant in this kind of situation.

Keep the make-up minimal and light. One can simply apply lip bum, and a little powder at the most. The eye colour, liner and fake lashes should be kept away from funerals. You don’t want to be the centre of attention which is most probably unnecessary.

Modesty
Brenda Maraka a fashion designer says that modesty is highly required, especially if it is a funeral. “I think since people are grieving, it’s best to dress modestly, lest you upset people with your dressing. It’s also important to know the culture of the bereaved as some traditions may require you to dress in a particular way like wear a gomesi or kanzu, for the men,” she says. She adds that one should cover their hair or simply puff it and apply less hair accessories, so as to keep away unwanted attention.

“If no instructions have been given on how to dress, it’s best to wear dark colours or black.”

She adds that if one is close to the deceased, they can wear a hat, a fascinator but still in dark colours and if you are in black you can add silver jewelery.

editorial@ug.nationmedia.com