Easter is one of the most important celebrations in the Catholic Church. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his crucifixion. Easter is preceded by the season of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting and penance. The color worn to church on Easter depends on the liturgical season.
Lenten Colors
During Lent, the liturgical color is violet. Violet represents penance and sacrifice. Priests wear violet vestments, and violet altar cloths and banners are used in church. Some common colors worn by churchgoers during Lent include:
- Dark colors like black, charcoal gray, navy blue, or dark brown
- Subdued shades like plum, forest green, burgundy, or deep purple
Brighter colors are avoided to reflect the somber, preparatory nature of the Lenten season. Women often wear subdued solid color dresses or dark suits, while men may wear darker suits or sport coats. As Lent concludes during Holy Week, the deepest and darkest shades are worn on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday services.
Easter Colors
On Easter Sunday, the liturgical color changes dramatically to white and gold. These bright festive tones represent joy, light, and hope. White symbolizes the purity of Christ’s resurrection, while gold symbolizes his triumph over death. On Easter, priests wear white vestments, white altar cloths and banners are used, and most churchgoers wear their best and brightest spring clothing choices:
- White dresses, suits, blouses, shirts, and accessories
- Pastel colors like light pink, mint, lilac, or pale yellow
- Bright, joyful colors like sky blue, grass green, coral, or eggplant
- Florals, patterns, and springtime fabrics like linen or eyelet lace
Hats and gloves can add a special touch for the Easter Mass. Little girls often wear Easter dresses in their favorite colors with matching hair bows and jewelry. Men complement women in their white dresses by wearing a white shirt and tie, white sport coat, or white suit. As a central feast day in the Church calendar, Easter clothes are new and seasonal.
Regional and Cultural Variations
While white and gold are the common Easter colors across the Catholic Church, some regional and cultural variations exist:
- In many Latin American countries, people wear new clothes in bright spring colors.
- In Poland and many Eastern European nations, locals flock to church in their colorful folk dress.
- In the Philippines, women wear dainty floral dresses called baro’t saya.
- In Italy, well-dressed men wear tailor-made suits and women don ornate hats.
- In places like Nigeria, white lace and vibrant African patterns are popular.
Some churches relax the color palette after Easter Mass, allowing brighter colors for Easter egg hunts, family gatherings, and celebrations. People express cultural pride by incorporating traditional designs and accessories.
Exceptions and Alternatives
While white and pastels are customary, darker colors like navy blue, forest green, burgundy, or black are also perfectly acceptable at Easter Mass. This provides options for those who don’t own white clothing or prefer darker hues. Men may simply wear their best suit or sports coat without worrying about color. likewise, women who don’t have white dresses could wear a darker cocktail dress or formal outfit. The focus is looking polished and put together to honor the occasion.
Those serving as lay ministers, lectors, altar servers, or in other roles may be required to wear a black cassock and white surplice or other prescribed vestments as determined by the church.
Children’s Attire
For children, any nice Sunday clothes are appropriate on Easter in colors they enjoy. This could include:
- Easter dresses with flowers, butterflies, or bunnies
- Dress shirts and pants or sweater vests for boys
- Spring colors like pastels, bright colors, or florals
- New shoes and hair bows or ties
Even with grass stains from inevitable tumbles, clothing can reflect the joy and renewal of Easter. If possible, it’s ideal to have one nicer outfit for church.
Where to Shop for Easter Clothing
Finding appropriate Easter attire is easy with these shopping tips:
- Department stores like Nordstrom, Macy’s, or Dillard’s
- Boutiques for unique dresses and accessories
- Target, H&M, Zara, or Old Navy for affordable choices
- Online at Amazon, Etsy, Shopbop, or Anthropologie
- Consignment and thrift stores to recycle fashions
Shop early for the best selection. Look for white or pastels in fabrics like linen, lace, eyelet, or cotton. Consider dresses with sleeves or jackets for warmth in cooler climates. Add shoes and a handbag in coordinating colors.
Easter Clothing Ideas and Inspiration
Stay stylish this Easter with these colorful clothing ideas:
- Women: white eyelet sundress; floral skirt and pastel cardigan; pencil skirt with lace blouse and pale pink pumps
- Men: light gray suit with lavender tie; white button-down and khakis; blue blazer, yellow pants, and brown loafers
- Girls: powder blue dress with matching hair bow; yellow sundress and sandals
- Boys: light blue oxford shirt and khaki pants; white polo shirt with navy pants or shorts
Search Pinterest boards, blogs, magazines, and Instagram for inspiring Easter fashions. Watch for clothing sales as the holiday approaches.
Conclusion
Easter marks the joyful end of Lent and new beginnings with the resurrection of Jesus Christ. While white and pastels are traditional, any nice clothes in festive colors honor this holy celebration. Take the Lenten darkness and transform it into the light of spring. Allow your vibrant Easter Sunday attire to reflect this message of hope and renewal, expressed in fashion.