Why Royal Women Are Wearing Black Veils for King Harald’s Funeral

As the Norwegian royal family gathers for King Harald’s state funeral today, among the most visually striking elements of a royal funeral are the black veils worn by royal women. It is a tradition with roots stretching back more than 150 years, and one that remains very much alive in European royal circles today.Much like how she popularized the white wedding dress, the practice of wearing black mourning clothes was popularized by Queen Victoria, who dressed in black for four decades following the death of her husband Prince Albert in 1861. The black mourning veil followed naturally from that tradition, carrying its own distinct symbolism as the dark color signals grief and respect for the deceased.