What to wear to a funeral is both a simple and a complicated question - you've lost someone close, you want to mourn and support your family and friends, and you want to show that that's why you're there. What you choose to wear sends that message.
Most advice on this subject is pretty general because, unlike most fashion advice, funeral attire is meant to go with you, not stand out. With that in mind, the answer is simple: wear black. But for some of us, that might not be an option, let alone all those suits and dresses that probably don't fit anymore after being indoors for most of the year.
TLDR: be reasonable and sensitive
In addition, the occasions surrounding the funeral vary, e.g. B. attending a wake versus a memorial service, or a celebration of life versus a memorial service, or summer versus winter. So the answer is complicated. Whether you're a woman, man, or parent dressing your children, Atticus has the ultimate guide to what to wear to a funeral and other funeral services.
Atticus tip for a Zoom funeral -Covid-19 is preventing many families and friends from gathering and funerals are among the events that are being severely disrupted. If you're attending a Zoom funeral and need help, check out Atticus.Wear your pants! - What to wear (and NOT wear) to a Zoom funeral.
Mourning clothes for women, men and children
Women have so many more choices in their attire, and when it comes to funerals, that stays true. Dresses and suits, skirts and trousers can all be worn at a funeral or funeral, but there are many considerations to make when choosing.
Funeral clothing for women
For a long time, the advice for women attending funerals was to wear a dark dress, preferably black. Trouser suits and skirt suits have been added to what is acceptable, as well as skirts with blouses or sweaters, and also trousers with a formal top with sleeves.
What women should wear to a funeral
- To wear a dress
- Wear a pants suit
- Wear a skirt suit
- Wear dress pants with a long-sleeved top
Within this framework of outfits, your decision-making should focus on the family of the deceased (perhaps your family). Are they more conservative dressers or more casual? When it comes to a funeral, it's better to opt for formal rather than casual attire and avoid certain items of clothing like these:
What women shouldn't wear to a funeral
- Don't wear a short skirt
- Do not wear revealing clothing
- Don't wear dangling earrings
- Don't wear flashy chunky necklaces
Funerals are generally more formal occasions, so in this case it's a good idea for women to keep their shoulders covered. Skirts and dresses, although preferred in many cases, should be below the knees. Sundresses or more revealing attire may have their place in tropical funeral services, but not at a traditional funeral.
With jewelry, the mindset is the same – eye-catching is not the goal. Silver and gold are preferred over diamonds, try to choose earrings that don't dangle and wear necklaces with smaller pendants.
Hats are also appropriate for women to wear at funerals and are a good occasion to bring them out. Accent colors can be bright, but not the hat itself, and make sure it's not tacky, fancy, or so big that it blocks the view of someone sitting behind it.
Atticus Tip: Check the Obituary —You can find the obituary on Facebook, elsewhere on the internet, or in the local newspaper. It may contain special requests, e.g. B. what to wear.
What colors should women wear to a funeral?
- Wear black or charcoal
- Do not wear bright colors or patterns
- Wear bright colors for accents
- Don't wear garish makeup
When in doubt, go for black, but there are a number of other colors that work well. Just try to stick to one color as patterned dresses tend to stand out. Try to avoid red and white bottoms or dresses. When it comes to makeup, consider nude colors and be sparing with eyeshadow and blush. For visual reference, consider these color palettes:
Funeral attire for men
When a man dresses for a funeral, the question likely arises: how formal do you want to be? It's been a saying for generations that every man should own a suit, and funerals are one of those occasions when it comes out. But a suit is not strictly required at all funerals, and many men have either no suits or multiple suits.
What men should wear to a funeral
- Wear a black suit
- Wear a collared shirt
- Wear smart shoes with a matching belt
- Wear pants
If you have a black or charcoal gray suit, that is the preferred attire for men at funerals. They go best with a long-sleeved shirt with a collar. Just make sure you tuck in the shirt and try to have a belt and a pair of dress shoes that go together. A tie is a nice touch and an opportunity to add a little (not a lot) of color to your outfit, but if you're wearing a suit, an open collar will likely work well.
A matching belt and pair of shoes also look best if you decide not to wear a suit. "Business casual" is more acceptable these days, so collared shirts such as B. a shirt or polo shirt, with pants preferred. In some cases, dark jeans may be acceptable, but that means putting on your top and maybe pairing it with a blue blazer.
What men shouldn't wear to a funeral
- Do not wear athletic shoes
- Don't wear baseball caps
- Don't wear shorts
A suit with sneakers, trainers, or flip-flops might be a fashionable outfit these days, but a funeral isn't the time. It's also not the time for a baseball cap, but more formal hats are acceptable. On rare occasions, shorts may be acceptable, but when in doubt, assume they are not.
What colors should men wear to a funeral?
- Wear black or charcoal
- Don't wear bright colors
- Wear dark pants
If you decide not to wear a suit jacket, you should give some thought to the color of the top you choose. White works well as an accent color, but consider going a darker color if it's the only top you're wearing or pairing it with a dark colored vest. Light colors like red, orange and royal blue are generally discouraged for men. See the color palette above for reference.
Funeral clothing for children
Children's dress codes are much looser because they are children! The most important thing to keep in mind when dressing a child for a funeral is that they feel comfortable.
What children should wear to a funeral
- Wear clothes like their parents
- Wear a suit or formal dress
Just as men and women have basic rules of thumb for their attire at a funeral, the preferred ensemble for children is to dress like their parents. Try to match the colors as much as possible, and don't worry if your child doesn't have a suit or formal attire. Just try to make sure their shoes are clean and their clothes decent. Shorts are also acceptable, but only in combination with a collared shirt.
What children should not wear to a funeral
- Do not wear wrinkled clothing or worn shoes
- Don't wear cute clothes
A collared shirt is preferred by boys and a dress is most popular by girls. Your child will look especially good if the shirt is clean and not wrinkled and the dress isn't too cute or trendy.
What colors should children wear to a funeral?
- Wear colors similar to parents'
- Wear dark colors whenever possible
Children are not bound by the same rules as men or women when it comes to acceptable colors to wear at a funeral. Lighter colors are fine as long as they're not too loud. Anything formal about a young child is going to look adorable anyway, and that's likely to make a lot of people smile.
What women, men and children should wear to a summer funeral
What women should wear to a summer funeral
Comfort is key at a summer funeral, and for most women, that means wearing less clothing. The most important thing to consider is whether the service will be held indoors, in an air conditioner, or outdoors in the summer heat. If the latter is the case, then consider the following:
- Dresses -Dresses made from thinner fabrics, such as cotton and linen, and some sundresses are appropriate for a funeral in the sun. Just avoid showing too much under the collar and spaghetti straps are taboo. Make sure your clothes are not too tight and avoid miniskirts.
- Accesories -At an outdoor funeral, you may need to seek some shade, and that can be accomplished with a black umbrella. Likewise for sunglasses, as anything black will do. Also consider a hat for shade as long as it doesn't obstruct the person behind you.
- Colours -The same colors are acceptable for indoor and outdoor funerals, as well as winter and summer funerals. The trend will be to wear lighter colors because it's summer, but try to stick with black, grey, dark gray and navy blue.
What men should wear to a summer funeral
The same goes for men and women during summer funerals – comfort is key. For men who want to maintain a formal appearance, it is best to dress in layers. As for the rest, consider the following tips:
- Dresses -Lightweight and dark colored fabrics are hard to come by for men's trousers, so consider wearing cloth or linen for a shirt. Polo shirts are also far more acceptable at outdoor weddings and can even be worn under a blazer or suit jacket.
- Accesories -Baseball caps are still a no-no, but if you have a more formal hat, now is a good time to bring it out. Umbrellas are good for the sun, as are black sunglasses.
- Colours -Dark colors are still much preferred in the case of outdoor funerals, and this might surprise men, but actually even more important. The reason is because of sweat, which is sure to find you if you keep that suit jacket on. Khaki is also more acceptable for outdoor funerals.
What kids should wear to a summer funeral
Depending on how formal the funeral you are attending is, keep in mind that a child with less than perfect clothing is far better off than a screaming child who is too hot. The heat is not only a danger for the child and an obstacle for others, but also think about your own grief, as you do not want this emotional moment to be spoiled. Comfort is key, but doubly so for kids. This means that it's okay for her to wear shorts, but it's best to pair them with dress shoes over flip flops.
What women, men and children should wear to a winter funeral
What women should wear to a winter funeral
- Dresses -Clothing choices remain the same as dark colors and non-revealing clothing are always preferred, but in this case a winter coat will likely be part of your wardrobe. Dark colors are preferred, but if your winter coat is patterned or light-colored, consider removing it during the service.
- Accesories -When you have your winter coat, you might want to pair it with gloves and scarves. Consider if it's going to rain, and if it is, an umbrella is great and rain boots in most colors are fine.
- Colours -Dark colors are trendier in the winter, so at a winter funeral, make an extra effort not to wear bright colors as they will stand out from everyone else.
What men should wear to a winter funeral
- Dresses -When a man wears a suit and a black wool coat, he has all the formal wear he needs for winter. Consider wearing wool socks and a hat is acceptable, but a formal fedora is preferred.
- Accesories -Gloves and scarves go great with your wool jacket, and just like women, rain boots are perfectly acceptable when rain is the order of the day.
- Colours -Just as dark colors are more fashionable for women in winter, at a winter funeral, make an extra effort not to wear bright colors as they will set you apart from everyone else.
What children should wear to a winter funeral
You may have chosen rain boots and a winter coat that is more colorful for your child, and in the case of a winter funeral, don't bother buying new ones just because they aren't dark. If the service is outside, you should definitely consider how long it will last and whether stratification might be needed. Warm socks and a hat will keep them warm and are perfectly acceptable to them.
What women, men and children should wear to non-traditional services
What women, men and children should wear to a wake or viewing
A "wake" or "viewing" as it is also called, is a tradition started by Catholics. The ceremony has expanded beyond Catholicism but still retains the same basic claim - it is an open coffin viewing of the body of the deceased. While funerals and memorial services are usually larger affairs, a wake or viewing is usually reserved for close family and friends.
- Women -Unless a family specifically says otherwise, this is definitely not an opportunity to dress up or be revealing. Being invited to a wake is a great honor, and that makes it even more important to stay on the formal side.
- Men -There is perhaps no more opportune time for a man to take his black suit out of the closet. Knowing the family of the deceased is key to making this decision.
- Kinder -The presence of children at guards is perfectly fine and this could be an opportunity to buy them something formal.
What women, men and children should wear to a funeral service
Memorial services are usually held without the body being present. This can be for a variety of reasons, but in the end most of the time this type of occasion can take on a more casual tone. However, if this is not stated by the family of the deceased, then, as always, go to the formal page.
- Women -Casual isn't a way you want to describe your attire, but business casual will work just fine. Covering your shoulders, keeping your neckline high and your skirt knee-length allows you to get a little more creative with your attire.
- Men -Men may be able to forego the suit on this occasion and certainly forego their tie. This is a good opportunity for those khaki pants, but don't go crazy about the colors.
- Kinder -Children should match their parents' casual or formality, and although it is an opportunity to dress smarter, clean clothes and shoes are expected.
What women, men and children should wear to a celebration of life
A celebration of life is generally the most casual of all compared to other funeral services. In most cases, it's meant to be fun, celebratory, and might involve festivities such as dancing and drinking. This event is likely to emulate the style of the deceased and his family even more. So, if no dress code is given, be sure to ask someone who does, or consider the following:
- Women -It's all out the window to celebrate life and hopefully you can get some inside information from the family. If you want to be on the safe side, be careful not to show too much skin and bright colors.
- Men -This is probably one occasion where you don't have to think about wearing a suit, but these pants and a button-down shirt are probably the way to go. Jeans might even be appropriate, but that's just not something you want to wear without first checking with the deceased's family.
- Kinder -As with most funeral services, children should match their parents' casualness or formality, and while there is an opportunity to dress smarter, clean clothes and shoes are the expectation.
What women, men and children should wear to a funeral depending on their religion and beliefs
Funeral dress in most religions follows very similar rules - dress dark, dress conservatively, and dress formally. For details, see the information above on what women, men and children should wear at funerals. Otherwise, the funeral services for the following religions have the following notable expectations and exceptions.
What to wear to an Anglican/Episcopalian funeral?
There are many differences, but the general Angelican/Episcopalian belief is that belief in Jesus Christ will lead to eternal life with God. Burial usually occurs within a few days of death, and the most formal attire is required in almost all cases.
What to wear to a Baptist funeral
The common belief among Baptists is that belief in Jesus Christ leads to eternal life with God. Baptists tend to have slightly more differences between churches since each is autonomous. Viewings are common in Baptist faiths, which may be more casual, but with a strong religious influence on their funerals, you can rest assured that formal attire is more appropriate.
What do you wear to a Buddhist funeral?
Buddhist beliefs hold that dying is another part of the cycle of life as part of the concept of samsara and a person can be reborn after death. If you attend a Buddhist wake, you may find that the deceased is dressed in comfortable, everyday clothing. The Buddhist religion shuns the display of wealth, and the usual color of dress is white, not black.
What to wear to a Catholic funeral
Catholicism asserts that when a person dies, he has left the physical world and will find himself in heaven, hell, or purgatory. Typically, families hold a vigil the night before the funeral, and this is the best time to give a eulogy or say a few words. Dress smartly for the occasion unless family dictates otherwise. As for the funeral, mass is often held during the service, requiring you to wear your "Sunday dress."
What to Wear to an Eastern Orthodox Funeral
The Eastern Orthodox claim that the afterlife is spent with God. A wake can last up to three days, and given the strong religious connection to the event, it's best to dress formally. Likewise for the funeral, but remember to wear comfortable shoes or insoles as you will likely be spending a lot of time on your feet.
What do you wear to a Hindu funeral?
Hindu belief holds that dying is another part of life cycle as part of samsara concept and a person can be reborn after death. Waking is common before the body is cremated and you may notice that the person who died is wearing white. White is a symbol of purity and respect in Hinduism, so wear this color to a wake and funeral.
What to wear to a Jewish funeral
Depending on the denomination, Judaism may hold that there is no life after death, or a person may be let into "the world to come." If the funeral is for an orthodox person then dress formally and the ladies take care to cover themselves. Headgear is also preferred, and for men, a yarmulke is replaced with a hat.
What to wear to a Lutheran funeral
Lutherans believe that life after death is determined by the grace of God. There are sometimes viewings or wakes, and dress appropriately for the area. Funeral services almost always take place in a church and should bring out your best formal attire.
What do you wear to a Methodist funeral?
For Methodists, death is one step closer to eternal life, and a person will be resurrected after the second coming of Jesus Christ. Methodism is a variant of Eastern Orthodoxy, and like most denominations of Christianity, funerals are formal events and are almost always held in a church. This requires your "Sunday Best" and for ladies to cover up.
What to wear to a Muslim funeral
Shia and Sunni Muslims have different religious views, however, both believe that the body of the deceased awaits the "last day" as they experience heaven or hell depending on the deeds in their lives. Much respect is given to the body, so funerals are instantaneous, with no wake or viewing. Traditionally, only men were allowed to attend funerals, but that has changed. Men should wear a plain shirt and trousers, while women must wear a long-sleeved shirt and a high neckline. Women should also wear an ankle-length skirt and a headscarf.
What to wear to a Latter-day Saint/Mormon funeral
Latter-day Saints and Mormons generally believe that after a person dies, they await the return of Jesus Christ, either in spirit paradise or in spirit prison. Viewings are common and usually take place in close proximity to the burial. Funerals are religious ceremonies that require formal attire and cover the ladies.
What do you wear to a Presbyterian funeral?
Presbyterians believe that eternal life comes after death, although this can mean eternity in heaven or hell depending on a person's actions and relationship with God. Wakes or viewings are neither common nor unusual. Funeral services are usually held in churches, but a full mass is not held in conjunction. Wear your “Sunday dress” for the occasion.
Atticus hopes this guide will help anyone who is having trouble figuring out what to wear to a funeral. Just remember that it's totally fine if you don't know, and taking the time to figure out what to wear to a funeral is already a great show of respect.
FAQs
What is acceptable attire for a funeral? ›
What is appropriate clothing for a funeral? Traditionally, funeral etiquette suggests men and women wear black clothing that's conservative and respectful. Black or dark colours are most common, but some cultures expect mourners to wear a less traditional funeral colour.
What is the proper attire for a woman to wear to a funeral? ›Most common funeral etiquette practices for women to wear include a dark or black skirt suit or pantsuit; a skirt of appropriate length or pants and a top with sleeves, a blouse, or a sweater; flats or pumps. In some cultures, and religions women wear hats to funerals.
What not to wear to a funeral? ›Avoid dressing in casual clothing, such as athletic wear, tank tops, or shorts. Skip the flip-flops, tennis shoes, sneakers, or boat shoes. Remove the neon necktie, purse, or accessory. Shy away from wearing jeans, even black ones, because they are considered too casual for a funeral.
What should a woman wear to a Catholic funeral? ›Catholic Funeral Etiquette
Women should wear a black skirt or dress or pantsuit. If black clothing is not available, attendees should aim for wearing the darkest semi-formal clothes they have. It is no longer required that women wear hats, although some do. Men should absolutely not wear a hat in the church.
Wearing dark grey or deep blue is just as appropriate as black, while brown and lighter greys are suitable for the vast majority of funeral services. However, unless specifically requested by the deceased or their family, you should avoid any bright colors such as yellows, oranges, pinks, and reds.
Can a woman wear pants to a funeral? ›Women should avoid wearing overly casual or festive clothing. Appropriate outfits for women to wear to a funeral include a skirt suit or pantsuit; a skirt of appropriate length (not a mini skirt) or pants (not jeans) and a top with sleeves, a blouse, or a sweater; flats or pumps (not sneakers).
What should a woman wear to a funeral in 2022? ›- A suit with a skirt or pants in a dark, solid color is a safe choice. ...
- A skirt of appropriate length and blouse or sweater is normally appropriate.
- Flat shoes or pumps are your best choice for shoes. ...
- Depending on the culture, a hat may be worn.
When attending a funeral, wear attire that would be appropriate for a church service. Nice pants and a collared shirt, a suit and tie, a dress or other attire that is a step above casual is acceptable.
Is it disrespectful to not dress up for a funeral? ›Not owning traditional funeral attire is no reason to skip a funeral. In fact, we discourage it. You won't be kicked out of a funeral for not wearing a suit, but we suggest wearing an outfit that will blend in rather than start a conversation. (I.e. no shorts, tees and flip flops.)
What shoes do you wear to a funeral? ›Opt for a conservative, closed-toed pair of heels or flats. The same rule applies for both men's and women's sandals. If your funeral will be taking place in a warm climate, you might be tempted to throw on a pair of fancier sandals or open-toed shoes.
Can you have bare legs at a funeral? ›
Bold patterns are not appropriate for funerals and should be avoided. Keep skirts and dresses to the knee or below and avoid bare legs in general to keep your look formal. Avoid anything sparkly, fringed or sequined – this isn't a party.
Is it disrespectful to not wear black at a funeral? ›You Don't Have To Wear Black
However, colors like dark grey, dark blue, darker green, white, and beige can be appropriate. If you don't own any black clothing, you may always opt for a subtle hue that is appropriate for formal settings. In addition, stay away from anything with distracting patterns or prints.
Meanwhile, a black dress or suit for female mourners is also considered appropriate. Slightly more casual clothing is usually fine as well, as long as it's modest and somber. Jeans, hoodies, sportswear, printed t-shirts, and athletic shoes are typically not a good idea.
Can a woman wear a white shirt and black pants to a funeral? ›Black is still the safest color for funeral attire, but you don't have to wear solid black. A black suit with a white shirt is acceptable or a dress that's mostly black but has a subtle color in the pattern is also fine to wear.
Can you wear jeans to a funeral woman? ›Can you wear jeans to a funeral? Bottom line: jeans are not appropriate for a funeral. Unless the family requests them, you should avoid wearing denim to a funeral. However, if it's a casual, outdoor service, you can consider a dark (almost black denim) paired with a button-down shirt and blazer.
How do you wear your hair to a funeral? ›Hair should be simple. Those with shorter hair should go for a clean look. Those with longer hair can try out a modest updo or a half-up, half-down hairstyle. Like with all aspects of your outfit, your hair should be respectful and not distracting from the memorial event.
Can I wear jeans and a shirt to a funeral? ›Can you wear jeans to a funeral? The most common answer is that jeans aren't considered appropriate funeral etiquette unless requested by the family. However, dark, unembellished jeans paired with a shirt, tie, and blazer for men or a blouse and a blazer for women can be appropriate for a casual service.
What should a 60 year old woman wear to a funeral? ›- Dark dresses or suits are always appropriate.
- Keep shoulders covered.
- Skirts/dresses should reach the knees.
- Tasteful color accents can be acceptable.
- Avoid bright sun dresses.
- Avoid anything overly revealing.
For women, adding color can be done through patterns and floral designs. Much like with men's funeral attire, color should be used to subtly accent your outfit. Try to make sure that your outfit does not have overly bright colors or wild patterns that draw attention.
Why do they cover the legs in a casket? ›It is a common practice to cover the legs as there is swelling in the feet and shoes don't fit. As part of funeral care, the body is dressed and preserved, with the prime focus on the face. Post embalming, bodies are often placed without shoes; hence covering the legs is the way to offer a dignified funeral.
What should a 65 year old woman wear to a funeral? ›
While the dress code for funerals has become more relaxed over the years, it is still important to dress respectfully when attending a funeral. For women, this typically means wearing dark-colored clothing. Black is always a safe choice, but dark navy or green can also be appropriate.
Can a woman wear a white blouse to a funeral? ›The traditional dress code for women at funerals is similar to what is expected of men. Clothes should be dark, although a white, cream or ivory blouse under a dark cardigan or blazer is usually fine.
Do you have to dress smart for a funeral? ›The general rule for clothing at funerals is to be respectful and understated – you don't want to distract anyone from paying their respects to the person who has died. If the family have requested bright colours or a particular theme, then of course this is fine, but in most cases it's best to avoid: Jeans.
Can you be overdressed for a funeral? ›Much like funeral service itself has evolved over the years, so too has dressing for a funeral. If you find yourself debating what to wear to a funeral, the best answer is dress conservatively. Wearing a suit or nice dress and being considered overdressed is never a bad thing.
What jewelry do you wear to a funeral? ›Pearls can be a good option. Small sterling silver, gold, or jeweled pieces are also usually a fine choice if they are not distracting. Religious jewelry, such as a simple cross, would also be appropriate. But, it's best to avoid any jewelry that might swing, clank together, or cause a disturbance to others.
Do you have to wear a blazer to a funeral? ›Suit coats might be the best choice for a funeral, but a nice sport coat or blazer is better than nothing! You will want to wear a coat that complements your pants. You would normally not have to pay attention to a suit since the pants and shirt match in suit wear.
What's the hardest part of a funeral? ›Usually people say a short prayer by the casket and then proceed to share their condolences with the family. Attending a visitation can be the hardest part for people to attend, because it involves talking to the deceased's family.
Are leggings OK to wear to a funeral? ›Choose neutral or black color trench coats or long jackets, opaque leggings, and winter boots. The same rule applies to scarves, gloves, hats, or any other accessories you plan to wear. Stay away from color-blocking or contrast colors.
How long can a body sit in a funeral home? ›When properly stored and cooled, a body can be kept for up to six weeks at the funeral home, so you'll have plenty of flexibility when planning your memorial service. Cremation has become an increasingly popular option for people around the country. In fact, more bodies are now cremated than buried.
What does wearing blue to a funeral mean? ›Funeral etiquette says that wearing dark colors to a funeral, including the color navy, is considered a sign of respect for the deceased. Whereas, and in the case of children, some families may request that the guests wear bright colors to celebrations of life—or memorial ceremonies.
How do I stop crying at a funeral? ›
- BREATHE. Controlling breath is the first step to reducing anxiety during a panic attack, and it stands to reason that calming yourself will also be beneficial when feeling extreme sorrow. ...
- DISTRACT YOURSELF. ...
- GET PHYSICAL. ...
- BLINK. ...
- DRINK WATER.
While dark clothes are traditional in many religions, white is worn to Hindu and Buddhist funerals.
Do I have to wear a hat to a Catholic funeral? ›If attending a Catholic funeral, mourners are expected to dress smartly and wear dark colours. Clothing should be modest i.e. cover the shoulders and knees, and jewellery should be kept simple. Head coverings are not required.
Can Catholic be cremated? ›Although traditional burial procedure which reflects respect for the body is still normal Catholic practice, cremation is allowed by the Catholic Church for justifiable reasons. Cremation would ordinarily take place after the Funeral Liturgy.
Why don't you wear red to a funeral? ›Why you shouldn't wear red to a funeral. Wearing red to a funeral can be a sign of disrespect. It will give others a completely wrong impression if you wear a bright and bold colour to a funeral, as this goes against the dark, muted colours associated with sadness and mourning.
Can I wear navy to a funeral? ›Dress Conservatively
Your clothing does not have to be all black. It's common for funeral attendees to wear navy blue, dark grey, violet, and many other colors. Men's funeral attire should stick to wearing a suit with an ironed white dress shirt and dark tie to match.
Flowers are the best way to express your condolences and sympathy to the bereaved – and honor the deceased. Because of their versatility, they are also considered sympathy flowers by the florists. Flowers are a language of love and empathy in this time of mourning.
What do you wear to a funeral if you don't have a suit? ›Dress Pants and Dress Shirt
You don't need to wear a suit to a funeral. This is a common misconception, but you can actually wear a variety of formal clothing as a man. Wearing dark dress pants or slacks is very appropriate. Pair your dress pants with a dress shirt, preferably a button-down.
The appropriate attire for a funeral or memorial service is simple: dress to show respect for the person whose life you are remembering. This means selecting clothes that are more conservative, not flashy or brightly colored. Darker dresses, suits, pants, jackets and sweaters are appropriate.
Do you still wear black to a funeral? ›Funeral Attire Colors
Black is still a safe choice for funerals. However, you're not limited to black. Other dark and muted colors also work well. Gray and navy are two popular options that fit the occasion.
Is it disrespectful to wear jeans to a funeral? ›
Bottom line: jeans are not appropriate for a funeral. Unless the family requests them, you should avoid wearing denim to a funeral. However, if it's a casual, outdoor service, you can consider a dark (almost black denim) paired with a button-down shirt and blazer.
Can you wear floral to a funeral? ›For women, adding color can be done through patterns and floral designs. Much like with men's funeral attire, color should be used to subtly accent your outfit. Try to make sure that your outfit does not have overly bright colors or wild patterns that draw attention.
Can a woman wear a blazer to a funeral? ›Opt for a Sport Coat or a Blazer
Suit coats might be the best choice for a funeral, but a nice sport coat or blazer is better than nothing! You will want to wear a coat that complements your pants.
The most common answer is that jeans aren't considered appropriate funeral etiquette unless requested by the family. However, dark, unembellished jeans paired with a shirt, tie, and blazer for men or a blouse and a blazer for women can be appropriate for a casual service.
Is a tight dress inappropriate for a funeral? ›Tight clothing makes quite the fashion statement, but it's not usually fit for a funeral or memorial. While you might be able to pair the tight clothing with something more professional, it isn't the best choice. What to wear instead: Wear a less revealing fabric that is more appropriate for a formal function.
Do your shoes have to be black at a funeral? ›You do not have to wear black unless the specific culture dictates it. A skirt of appropriate length and blouse or sweater is normally appropriate. Flat shoes or pumps are your best choice for shoes. Open-toed shoes or sandals may be appropriate depending on the venue and climate.
Do you have to wear black to a funeral 2022? ›Funeral attire should be dark somber clothing. A shirt and tie for men and dress or slacks and a blouse for women. Black, navy, gray, neutral tones are all appropriate colors. Avoid bright or flamboyant clothing.
Should I wear pantyhose to a funeral? ›When in doubt, dress conservatively by avoiding ornate accessories and exposed skin. Modesty is the key when deciding what to wear to a funeral, as your attire should reflect the solemn nature of the service. In summary, yes, you should wear stockings for a funeral.