Why royals wear black and the traditions behind their mourning clothes

As the world watches King Harald V’s funeral today, royals from across Europe and beyond have gathered in Oslo to pay their respects. Along with the solemn ceremony and historic traditions, one detail is impossible to miss: the sea of black worn by royal mourners as they say their final farewell to the Norwegian monarch.

Royal mourning attire is far more than a matter of formality. From black dresses and veils to military uniforms, medals and carefully chosen accessories, what royals wear to a funeral is shaped by centuries of protocol, symbolism and tradition.

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