Prince Philip Funeral Will See Royals Follow Numerous Peculiar Rules On 4/9/21 at 12:01 PM EDT As the U.K. mourns the death of Prince Philip—Queen Elizabeth II's husband—the royal family and other public figures are expected to follow certain strict protocols in the days leading up to his funeral, not least the Queen herself. She is expected to pause her state affairs as she enters an official period of mourning that will last eight days. Here we look at some other rules relating to royal deaths. Always carry a black outfit The royal family has been prepared for the latest death for their entire lives, at least in terms of their attire. All royal family members are expected to carry a black mourning outfit with them whenever they travel overseas in case a family member dies while they are away.