Dressing for a funeral isn’t a moment anyone looks forward to, but such is life. If you’re wondering what to wear to a funeral, here’s a complete guide. Visit Forevory for online stories, articles, and proper funeral etiquette
No one’s happy to go to a funeral. The passing of a loved one is hard, and all the arrangements afterward can bring on even more stress.
Many people wonder what to wear to a funeral. It can be difficult to know what colors and styles of clothing are expected, especially when different funeral services have varying levels of formality.
We’ve put together a guide of basic funeral fashion guidelines that will work in almost all situations. Read on to learn more about how to style a funeral outfit that is respectful and appropriate for the occasion.
What to Wear to a Funeral
With a funeral coming up, chances are your wardrobe has been the last thing on your mind. Especially if you’re part of the family, you’ve probably been more preoccupied with making phone calls and planning a funeral service agenda.
Your funeral attire doesn’t have to be another worry. Below are some simple things to consider when choosing your outfit for the solemn day.
Choosing Colors
You don’t have to stick to all black, despite what may have been true in the past. You can mix it up a little bit with other neutrals and subtle colors.
However, black is still a good option. Black is classically formal and goes with everything. If you don’t want to wear all black, you might still want to start your outfit with a black element, such as black pants, a jacket, or a simple dress.
Dark colors of all kinds are a good choice for a funeral. Besides black, you can opt for navy, gray, taupe, and other subdued neutral shades.
Steer away from bright colors and flashy patterns. Showy fashion does not fit the somber occasion and could be seen as disrespectful. The service is about the deceased, not you, so you shouldn’t try to stand out.
Dress Conservatively
In general, you want to dress for a funeral the way you would dress for a business meeting or for the church. Your clothing should be conservative in both cut and color.
Suits are a great option for men and women alike. Women can wear a suit with pants, a skirt, or a dress, as long as the garment reaches at least to her knees.
A funeral is not the time to show a lot of skin. It’s okay to dress for comfort if you’re attending a funeral in the summer, but try not to show more than is necessary. This means women should avoid rocking lots of cleavages or a mini skirt, and guys should stay away from muscle shirts and shorts.
Consider the Venue
Think about the place the services will take place. People choose to have funeral services in a wide variety of locations, from formal religious sites to local parks.
Depending on where the funeral is taking place, you might want to dress slightly more or less formal. Also, if part of the service will take place outdoors, be prepared for the weather. You’ll want to wear shoes that you can walk in easily, and you might want to pack an umbrella in case of rain.
If you’re not sure what to expect or the deceased comes from a culture you aren’t familiar with, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask a member of the family or the officiant. Chances are they’ll be happy to help.
Try to speak with someone who is involved in the planning but not in charge of it. The family members who are organizing everything are likely overwhelmed, so you don’t want to add to their stress in any way.
Choosing the Right Shoes
Shoes should be as simple and conservative as the rest of your outfit. Go with something in a dark color or other low-key neutral.
You should choose modest heels or flats with a closed toe. Men should make sure that their dress shoes are shined.
Again, think of something that would fit in at an office or at a religious service. Towering stilettos or flip-flops are not a good choice for a funeral.
Simple Accessories
Both men and women should keep accessories to a minimum. A funeral is not the time to break out the rhinestones or huge hoop earrings.
For women, a simple necklace or stud earrings is all you need if your outfit calls for it. Men should wear a tie, a watch if they desire, and subtle cufflinks.
Make sure you’re not wearing anything that’s flashy, distracting, or noisy in any way. Overall, when it comes to accessorizing for a funeral, less is definitely more.
Hair and Makeup
You want to look polished and well-groomed for a funeral, but you don’t want to look overdone. Forgo bold or sparkly makeup and glamorous curls in favor of neutral makeup and a simple, pulled-back hairstyle.
Again, think if you would feel comfortable wearing a certain look to a job interview. No? Then it’s not appropriate for a funeral.
Guys should have their hair freshly trimmed and their facial hair groomed if not completely shaven. Hair should be clean and simply styled.
Consider the Person You’re Paying Your Respects To
Every funeral is different because everyone’s life is unique. Many families are choosing to have more personalized ceremonies. It has become more common to have more laid-back, intimate funerals in respect for the deceased’s wishes.
Offbeat services at the beach or ceremonies that incorporate nontraditional elements aren’t uncommon. If this is the case, the family will most likely make this known, and you will be able to dress accordingly. But if you’re not sure, ask someone.
Clothing Advice for Life’s Ups and Downs
Funerals are a time to remember someone who was important to us. We should be spending our time celebrating their life, not agonizing over what to wear to a funeral. Did our guide help take some of the stress out of dressing for a funeral? Check out more from our website for more fashion and lifestyle advice.