Wearing black as a wedding guest is bad luck

August 27, 2024

Should you go all out and show off at the wedding, or should you wear something you already own?

Can you wear black to a wedding?

You might also be wondering if it's appropriate to wear black. Well, avoid wearing black for the following reasons:

1. It could be interpreted to mean you don’t support the relationship

Black is considered a taboo colour during weddings. In ancient times, western cultures connected black with negativity, it was thought to bring bad luck to the marriage, and interpreted as a declaration against the relationship.

This is folklore, no one knew who came up with it but many people believed if you wore black to their wedding, you were not in support of their relationship.

2. Black is worn when people die

Black was traditionally associated with sorrow in Western societies; even in Nigeria, when people die, black outfits are their worn. That’s what renders it unsuitable for such celebratory occasions.

3. It is banned in some cultures

Dark colours are banned at traditional Indian and Chinese marriages because they are associated with grief. It is important to respect the bride's and groom's cultural customs.

4. It shouldn’t be worn in church

Black and purple are generally not the most welcoming choices to be worn to a church weddings due to their association with death and darkness since when funeral are held in churches, black outfits are worn. Purple, a colour similar to black is worn by priests during Easter, symbolising mourning for the passion of Christ.

Check the wedding invitation for any specified dress code. If black is part of the colours of the wedding, then it's okay. However, do not try to upstage the bride or groom with extra flamboyance.

In most scenarios, guests have flexibility with their attire, but obey this cardinal rule: avoid wearing white. This colour is reserved exclusively for the bride, ensuring that she remains the centre of attention on her special day.

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