Good Friday is a solemn Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Many people observe Good Friday by attending church services and praying. While there are no strict rules on what to wear, most people opt for more formal, conservative outfits as a sign of respect.
What is Good Friday?
Good Friday is the Friday before Easter Sunday. It is a part of Holy Week and coincides with the Jewish observance of Passover. On Good Friday, Christians remember the suffering and death of Jesus Christ on the cross. It is a day of mourning and penance for Christians.
Should you dress up for Good Friday services?
While there is no formal dress code, it is customary to dress modestly and avoid wearing bright colors on Good Friday. Most churches hold solemn Good Friday services, so wearing formal attire shows respect. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or accessories. Stick to muted, darker tones and classic silhouettes.
Recommended outfits for women
Here are some recommended Good Friday outfits for women:
| Outfit | Items |
|---|---|
| Conservative dress | Knee-length or longer dress in a dark, solid color or subtle print. Pair with a cardigan or blazer. |
| Dress pants outfit | Black, navy, or gray dress pants with a button-down shirt or blouse. Finish with ballet flats or low heels. |
| Skirt outfit | A-line or pleated midi skirt with a tucked-in blouse or sweater. Wear with tights and flats. |
| Suit | A pant or skirt suit in gray, black, or navy. Opt for low heels. |
Recommended outfits for men
Here are some recommended Good Friday outfits for men:
| Outfit | Items |
|---|---|
| Suit and tie | A dark suit, white shirt, and subtle tie are classic options. |
| Dress pants outfit | Pair dress pants with a button-down dress shirt, sweater or vest. A blazer is optional. |
| Collared shirt | Dark-colored collared shirt tucked into dress pants or khakis. |
| Dress shoes | Wear black or brown leather dress shoes. Loafers or oxfords are nice options. |
What to avoid wearing
Avoid wearing the following on Good Friday:
- Bright, flashy colors
- Short dresses or skirts (above the knee)
- T-shirts with graphics or logos
- Jeans
- Shorts
- Mini skirts
- Athleisure wear or gym clothes
- Flip flops or casual sandals
- Excessive jewelry
- Hats (unless it’s part of your religious custom)
Additional tips
Here are some additional tips for dressing for Good Friday services:
- Bring a cardigan or blazer to stay warm in chilly churches.
- If wearing pants or tights, make sure they are not see-through.
- Opt for leather shoes or modest heels instead of open-toed shoes.
- Carry a nice handbag, purse or clutch.
- Keep makeup natural and minimal.
- Skip perfume or body sprays to avoid irritating others.
- Keep hair simple. Avoid over-the-top styles.
- Iron or press your outfit to look polished.
What to wear for Good Friday services with kids
If attending Good Friday services with children, opt for outfits that are comfortable yet respectful:
- Little black dress with tights and ballet flats
- A blouse with dress pants or dark jeans
- A conservative knee-length dress
- A button-down shirt with sweater or cardigan and dress pants
- Slacks and a polo or button-down shirt for boys
- A dress or skirt with sweater or blazer for girls
Make sure clothes are not too restrictive to sit in for long services. Have kids wear dress shoes they can comfortably walk in.
What to wear for Good Friday at home
If spending Good Friday quietly at home:
- Women can wear a modest dress, skirt, or pants outfit.
- Men can wear khakis and a collared shirt or polo.
- Feel free to dress casually while maintaining respect.
- Loungewear like leggings with a tunic or button-down shirt and jeans are fine.
The most important thing is to have a prayerful, reflective spirit on this solemn day.
Conclusion
Good Friday has a somber tone, so opt for modest, conservative clothing in darker tones. For women, a simple dress, separates like a skirt with nice blouse, or pants outfit conveys respect. For men, a button-down shirt with slacks or suit and tie are appropriate options. Avoid bright colors or distracting accessories. Dress comfortably so you can focus on the meaning of this solemn Christian holiday. With some advance planning, you can dress appropriately to observe the mournful remembrance of Good Friday.
