Quick answer: Purple (violet) is worn in Advent, Lent and at funerals in many traditions. It signals preparation, repentance and quiet expectation.
Purple (violet) clergy stoles are worn in Advent and Lent, and at funerals in many traditions. The colour signals preparation, repentance and quiet expectation.
Why choose purple clergy stoles?
A purple stole is one of the most useful in a priest’s wardrobe because it covers two major seasons. It should read clearly from a distance: look for a deep, stable dye and embroidery that remains visible in low light. Our purple stoles include plain jacquard, embroidered crosses and Marian motifs.
When to wear them
- Advent, from the First Sunday of Advent
- Lent, from Ash Wednesday to Holy Thursday
- Funerals and memorial services
- Penance services and confessions in some traditions
- Vigils and penitential celebrations
Shop purple clergy stoles
Below are 12 current styles in this colour group. Prices are shown for reference; see each product page for current price, stock and options.
- Deacon's stole purple - Jerusalem crosses embroidery — $68.00
- Purple sermon stole, short, cross-stitched (6) — $68.00
- Deacon's stole with clasp — $79.00
- Priest's stole - Jerusalem Cross (1) — $80.00
- Embroidered stole - liturgical colors (9) — $87.00
- Embroidered stole Jerusalem Cross - liturgical colors (46) — $88.00
- Deacon's stole, purple (22) — $89.00
- Alpha and Omega priest's stole - embroidered (4) — $96.00
- Embroidered stole - liturgical colors (63) — $96.00
- Priest's stole cross and ears - embroidered (5) — $99.00
- Embroidered priest's stole - purple (3) — $100.00
- Priest's stole embroidered Crosses+crosses — $100.00
Prices checked 2026-11-05. Availability and prices may change.
Materials and embroidery
Purple stoles are usually made from silk dupioni, brocade or velvet, with crosses, Marian symbols or restrained geometric embroidery. A darker violet reads better than a light lilac in church lighting. Our stoles are made in Poland; custom embroidery is available on selected styles.
When is purple worn?
Advent, Lent and funerals in many traditions. It signals preparation, repentance and quiet expectation.
Can purple be used at funerals?
Yes, purple or violet is common at funerals in many Western traditions; black is also used in some places. Follow local diocesan custom.
What is the difference between purple and violet?
The terms are often used interchangeably for liturgical vestments; violet is the more precise name for the deep blue-purple shade.
