What to Wear to a Rastafarian Funeral
Dressing thoughtfully for a Rastafarian funeral is one of the simplest ways to honour the family and the person who has died. This guide covers modest clothing, the role of red, gold, and green, head coverings, and the differences between Houses such as the Nyabinghi and Bobo Shanti.
Dress code at a Rastafarian funeral
Rastafarian funeral dress is modest, neat, and unshowy. There is no single uniform across the faith, and practice varies between the main Houses, Nyabinghi, Bobo Shanti, and the Twelve Tribes of Israel: but the underlying spirit is the same: clothing that shows respect for the gathering, the family, and the soul returning to Jah.
The colours of the Ethiopian flag (red, gold, and green) carry deep significance in Rastafari. Red represents the blood of the martyrs, gold the wealth of the homeland, and green the land of Africa. Many Rastas wear these colours on accessories such as scarves, tams, or sashes; some families also welcome them on clothing, particularly at celebratory homegoing services. Black, white, and natural earth tones are equally appropriate, especially for non-Rasta guests who want to dress conservatively.
Head coverings are important. In the Bobo Shanti House, turbans are required for both men and women, and the dress code is the strictest of the Houses: long robes, modest cuts, and head covering at all times. In Nyabinghi and Twelve Tribes settings, head covering for women is widely expected and men often wear a knitted tam, a crown, or a head wrap. Dreadlocks are typically tied back or covered neatly out of respect for the service.
Colours and styles that work
Safe, respectful choices for a Rastafarian funeral.
- Modest, neat clothing in plain colours: black, white, cream, charcoal, navy, or earth tones such as brown and olive.
- A scarf, tam, or accessory in red, gold, and green if you have one and feel comfortable wearing it. These colours honour Ethiopia and the wider Rasta tradition.
- For women, a long skirt or dress with sleeves, or trousers with a long top. A scarf or wrap for the head is a kind, expected gesture.
- For men, a clean shirt and trousers, with a knitted tam, a head wrap, or a plain cap if you wear one. Bobo Shanti gatherings will require a turban.
- Comfortable shoes. Services can be long, and some take place outdoors or graveside, so dependable footwear is sensible.
- Hair tied back neatly. If you have long hair or dreadlocks, gathering them back is a quiet mark of respect for the gathering.
What to avoid
Things that are easy to overlook but can read as disrespectful.
- "I'll wear my Bob Marley shirt." — Reggae merchandise, cannabis-leaf prints, or anything that turns Rasta culture into a costume is inappropriate. Dress as you would for any solemn family occasion.
- Revealing or tight-fitting clothing. — Short hemlines, low necklines, vests, shorts, and figure-hugging cuts are not suitable for any Rasta gathering, and especially not for Bobo Shanti settings.
- Loud, bright, or flashy patterns unrelated to the red, gold, and green tradition. — Stick to muted, dignified tones unless the family has indicated otherwise.
- Going bare-headed without checking. — Head covering is widely expected for women and required in Bobo Shanti settings. A simple scarf in your bag covers most situations.
- Heavy or attention-grabbing jewellery. — Simple, modest pieces are fine; large statement items are out of step with the tone of the service.
Frequently asked questions
Should I wear black to a Rastafarian funeral?
Black is entirely acceptable and is a safe, respectful choice, particularly for non-Rasta guests. Many Rasta families also welcome white, earth tones, and the red, gold, and green of Ethiopia. If you are unsure, plain dark clothing is always appropriate.
Can I wear red, gold, and green as a non-Rasta guest?
Yes, especially in small, considered ways: a scarf, a tie, a sash. These colours carry deep meaning in Rastafari and wearing them respectfully is welcomed. Avoid head-to-toe outfits or anything that feels like costume; a simple accent is the safest approach.
Do I need to cover my head?
For Bobo Shanti gatherings, yes: turbans are required for both men and women. For Nyabinghi and Twelve Tribes services, head covering is widely expected for women and often worn by men too. When in doubt, bring a scarf and follow the family's lead.
What if I have a beard or dreadlocks?
Both are entirely at home in a Rastafarian gathering. The expectation is simply that they are neat and tied back where appropriate. Wash and groom as you would for any formal family occasion.
What should children wear?
The same principles apply: modest, neat clothing in plain or earth-toned colours, and a head covering for girls and women in Bobo Shanti settings. Comfortable shoes are sensible, as services can run long and may take place partly outdoors.
Last reviewed June 2026.
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