What is the best hat to wear to a funeral in South Africa?
The simple etiquette is that you never want to be the focus of attention at a funeral. Out of respect for the deceased, choose an outfit and funeral hat that ensures that the deceased is the center of this event. Somber clothes in dark grey, black or dark blue work best. Even when you look at the funerals of celebrities, they generally show stars and icons clothed in unusual (for most of them) somber and dark clothing and headwear. Respect is a powerful emotion and you only get one shot at showing it.
Let’s start by stating that it is not wrong for woman to wear funeral hats at a funeral as long as they are respectful to the deceased and somber in nature. Therefore avoid large rimmed hats, floral patterns and bright colors. It is less generally accepted for men to wear hats to a funeral. Generally a man takes his hat off to show respect to someone, so wearing one is not really the right way to show your respects to the dead.
Baseball caps or woolen caps should not be worn to a funeral. Large rimmed hats can block the view of those behind you and can add a sense of flair that would draw attention to you rather than to the deceased. Be respectful in all your choices.
The best funeral hat to wear would be a pillbox style hat, like our black version that you can see on our website here. Another alternative would be a Gatsby Headband in somber colors with simple attachments and few embellishments.
Just remember you are there as a guest to pay your respects. Not to be the center of attention.