A funeral is a day of remembrance, marked by a complex mix of emotions. Because it pays tribute to the deceased, it is necessary to dress appropriately. In this blog, we will discuss what to wear to a funeral so that you can arrive prepared.
General Guidelines for Funeral Attire
Generally, funeral attire should be modest, respectful, and subdued in tone. This can be represented by wearing neutral or dark-colored clothing such as black, grey, navy, or dark brown.
Attendees should always avoid flashy or overly casual attire, such as tight-fitting clothes, loud prints, and bright stripes, as it can draw attention away from the solemn purpose of the gathering and be perceived as disrespectful.
Furthermore, other factors, such as religious and cultural norms, can influence how you dress, and it may be necessary to consider and dress accordingly. However, the rule of thumb is to maintain a respectful presence and wear clothing that prioritizes dignity over personal style.
What Men Should Wear to a Funeral
Let’s begin with what to wear to a funeral for men. The most common and widely accepted attire consists of a dark suit, a collared dress shirt, and a tie. This outfit will convey respect and elegance, demonstrating your seriousness about respecting the occasion, much like you would wear to an important meeting.
Regarding footwear, an essential part of the attire, the traditional choice is to wear black or brown dress shoes, such as oxfords or loafers. Avoid wearing sneakers.
If a suit is unavailable, wearing dark slacks with a blazer or sweater is an acceptable alternative. However, this attire should be free of logos and loud designs. The goal is to present a clean and tidy appearance for the occasion.
What Women Should Wear to a Funeral
Women should opt for a conservative dress, such as a knee-length or longer skirt, a blouse, or dress pants with a formal top. Avoid clothing that is too tight, short, or revealing.
Much like the men, dark colors are recommended. While black is the most commonly used color for funerals, charcoal grey, deep brown, and navy are acceptable options. The key is to avoid wearing bright colors that make you feel out of place.
What Children and Teens Should Wear to a Funeral
Like adults, children’s goals are to appear neat, clean, and appropriately dressed for the event. Dark or neutral colors, such as black, navy, gray, or muted tones, are recommended to reflect traditional mourning expectations. Boys can wear dress pants and a collared shirt, while girls can wear a simple dress, skirt, or top.
What Not to Wear to a Funeral
A funeral is a formal occasion to honor the deceased and their family, so formal attire is almost always appropriate — unless the funeral is unique and organized around a specific theme.
Wearing anything that takes the focus away from the event and distracts other attendees, particularly the mourning family, is a big no-no at a funeral.
Casual attire, such as shorts, flip-flops, and bright t-shirts with graphics or athletic wear, is generally considered disrespectful. Short skirts, low-cut tops, and sleeveless dresses without a cardigan are also inappropriate for the occasion.
Final Considerations for Funeral Attire
When attending a funeral, it is always best to prioritize formality, especially if you are unsure of the dress code. A funeral is an occasion to show respect and sympathy to the deceased and his or her loved ones. It is better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
Furthermore, funeral processions can be lengthy. While formality is essential, comfortable attire should also be considered, especially for a long funeral. Consider the weather on the day to ensure you are comfortable enough to attend the funeral and pay your respects.
If you are still unsure about what to wear to the funeral you have just been invited to, have questions about funeral etiquette, or need assistance with planning services, Slater Funeral Services is here to help. Reach out to our compassionate team for guidance.
