For those who regularly wear suits, a tie pin that keeps the tie in place is an essential item. However, when it comes to funerals, there are many manners to consider regarding attire and jewelry accessories, making some people worry about whether they should wear a tie pin or not. In this article, we will explain the etiquette of wearing a tie pin at a funeral.
Table of Contents
Is it okay to wear a tie pin at a funeral?
Generally, wearing a tie pin at a funeral is not recommended
There are cases where wearing a tie pin specifically for funerals is acceptable
If wearing one is absolutely necessary, it should be placed in an inconspicuous location
Tie pins to absolutely avoid at funerals
Reasons why wearing a tie pin at a funeral is discouraged
Accessories considered appropriate to wear at a funeral
Is it okay to wear a tie pin at a funeral?
Here, we will explain the etiquette for wearing tie pins at funerals, as well as how to choose and wear them.
In general, tie pins are not suitable for funerals
In funeral settings, wearing a tie pin is generally not recommended. The primary role of a tie pin is to secure the tie in place. By using a tie pin, it helps prevent staining during meals, getting wet during hand washing, and ensures that the tie does not droop when bending forward or during activities.
However, aside from its practical functions, ties also serve a decorative purpose in formal settings, embellishing the chest area. Therefore, wearing a tie pin may also give off an extravagant impression.
Furthermore, funerals typically involve wearing a jacket, which reduces the likelihood of the tie becoming displaced due to movements.
It's Okay to Use a Tie Pin for Funerals
While the use of tie pins at funerals is generally discouraged, there are cases where it's acceptable to use a tie pin specifically designed for funerals.
Considering the meaning behind pearls, it's not an issue for both women and men to wear them.
Furthermore, mourning jewelry made of materials such as obsidian, jet, onyx, in addition to pearls, is commonly chosen as accessories for funerals. Mourning jewelry is also selected in Europe as accessories to wear during the mourning period.
In addition, there are simple, dark-colored accessories designed specifically for funerals, aside from pearls and mourning jewelry. If you must wear a tie pin, opt for items featuring pearls or mourning jewelry designed for funerals, or choose simple, dark-colored designs.
If wearing it is absolutely necessary, attach it in an invisible place
Even if it is a tie pin appropriate for a funeral, let's consider how to wear it. When fastening the design, fix the small sword (the thin one that goes underneath) and the shirt with the tie pin, so that the tie pin is hidden by the tie's sword. With this method, it is reassuring as it will be difficult to see even when viewed from the gap in the jacket or when taken off.
Necktie Pins to Avoid at Funerals
The necktie pins that should absolutely be avoided at funerals are decorative types such as tie tacks and stick pins.
Tie tacks are a type of pin that secures the tie with a needle, typically designed with decorative elements such as jewels on the head of the pin. Stick pins, on the other hand, are also used to secure the tie with a pin but have a longer pin compared to tie tacks. Both tend to feature highly decorative designs that add a touch of glamour, suitable for occasions like weddings.
Why You Shouldn't Wear a Tie Pin at a Funeral
The reason you shouldn't wear a tie pin at a funeral is because decorative items should be avoided in such situations.
In traditional Japanese attire, wearing accessories other than wedding rings is generally not considered appropriate. In the past, wearing accessories that were common during funerals with traditional attire was deemed unsuitable.
Understanding the emphasis on avoiding flashy impressions and the evolving etiquette regarding accessories due to the prevalence of Western attire can provide helpful insights.
Jewelry Accessories Allowed at Funerals
The permissible accessories to wear at funerals are wedding rings, and for women in Western attire, a single-strand necklace and a single stud earring. Simple wedding rings are acceptable, but elaborate designs with gemstones or excessive decorations are best avoided.
For those in Western attire accessorizing with necklaces and earrings, there are some points to be cautious about. It is advisable to steer clear of jewelry with gemstones or flashy chains. Additionally, wearing a double-strand necklace is considered bad luck, thus inappropriate for a funeral setting.
Conversely, suitable accessories for funerals include pearls and mourning jewelry as mentioned above.
As watches are also considered accessories, it is generally best to not wear them at funerals. However, if it is absolutely necessary to wear one, pay attention to the design of the watch. Leather materials are associated with death so they should be avoided, while gold materials are deemed too ostentatious. Digital watches or sporty styles with a casual vibe are also not quite appropriate.
Conclusion
For those who regularly wear suits, wearing a tie pin is commonplace, but it is important to be cautious and avoid wearing one at funerals. Tie pins are not necessary when wearing a jacket and since they also serve as an accessory, they are not appropriate for funerals.
However, if you must wear a tie pin, it is important to choose one that adheres to funeral accessory etiquette and make sure to cleverly conceal it to avoid it being visible.