The royal family places a lot of importance on dress codes, and this is true even during a time of mourning. The family will need to follow a specific set of fashion guidelines when they attend the Queen’s funeral on Monday, September 19. This is because royal funeral attire is steeped in tradition.
Black is traditional for both royal and non-royal funerals, but there is an additional rule that all royal ladies, such as the Princess of Wales and the Duchess of Sussex, must follow. Both will wear mourning veils made of black lace, as has been customary at royal funerals for many years.
In April 2021, Princess Kate attended the funeral of Prince Philip while donning a black fascinator and a subtle mourning veil. At the occasion, Princess Anne also wore the customary attire, layered beneath a broad-brimmed hat.
Duchess Meghan is probably going to be wearing a mourning veil with the female family members as she is expected to be present at the late monarch’s funeral.
The mourning veil is worn by those who are grieving for a loved one, and it serves both a symbolic and practical purpose. Usually made of transparent materials like lace, tulle, or fine netting, they are transparent.
Queen Victoria is renowned for spending 40 years mourning publicly by donning all-black attire in honor of her late husband Prince Albert.
A mourning veil’s practical function is to hide one’s face, giving those who are upset or crying more privacy. The mourning veil also serves as a camera-friendly shield for famous people like royalty.
For The Queen’s funeral, where her 70 years on the throne will be remembered by the country, we can be sure to expect the royal ladies in all-black ensembles complete with black mourning veils.
