Keohane Funeral Home

What to Wear to a Funeral: Your Guide to Respectful Attire

September 1, 2023

Funerals are occasions that call for respect and decorum, and what you choose to wear should reflect that. While the specific dress codes can vary based on culture, religion, and the wishes of the deceased’s family, there are some general principles that can guide you in choosing appropriate attire for a funeral.

Do

1. Do Dress Conservatively: Funeral attire should be understated and modest. This generally means opting for clothing that covers the shoulders and knees for women and suits or dress pants for men. Bright and flashy patterns and fabrics should be avoided.
2. Do Wear Dark Colors: While it’s not a hard and fast rule, darker colors are typically associated with mourning and can be a safe bet for funeral attire. Blacks, greys, navy blues, and browns are all appropriate choices.
3. Do Consider the Weather: If the funeral involves an outdoor ceremony or graveside service, ensure that you’re dressed appropriately for the weather. This might mean bringing an umbrella or a coat and hat.
4. Do Respect Cultural and Religious Traditions: If the funeral is for someone of a different culture or religion, take the time to learn about their funeral attire customs. This can be as simple as a Google search or asking someone who knows.

Don’t

1. Don’t Wear Casual Clothing: In general, funerals tend to be formal occasions, so casual clothing like jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers should be avoided.
2. Don’t Over Accessorize: Keep your accessories simple and minimal. Now is not the time for statement jewelry or flashy watches. Instead, opt for simple, understated accessories.
3. Don’t Underdress: It’s better to be overdressed than underdressed at a funeral. If you’re unsure about what to wear, err on the side of caution and dress a bit more formally.
4. Don’t Forget About Comfort: While it’s important to look respectful, you’ll also likely be sitting or standing for long periods. Make sure whatever you’re wearing is comfortable enough to wear for several hours.

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your outfit is both respectful and appropriate for the occasion. Remember, funerals are a time to honor the deceased, not an opportunity to stand out, so keep it simple!

It’s also important to remember that everyone’s grieving process is different, and no one should judge someone for their choice of clothing. If you’re attending a funeral, the most important thing is that you show up and pay your respects in whatever way feels right for you.

Funerals are often difficult and sad occasions, but honoring the memory of the deceased can be a great source of comfort. So, when attending one, make sure you take the time to dress appropriately and pay your respects with compassion and sensitivity.

If you are worried about having limited choices and resources, remember that the goal is to honor the deceased and show respect for their memory. If you do the best you can, you can’t go wrong.

In conclusion, attending a funeral requires showing respect and compassion through both our presence and appearance. Opt for conservative, understated attire in darker colors, and ensure that you are comfortable enough to stand or sit for extended periods. By following those guidelines, you’ll always be dressed appropriately for the occasion.

Resources:

What To Wear To A Funeral: A Complete Guide For Women And Men

Proper Funeral Attire for Men, Women, and Kids

We hope you find this brief guide on funeral attire helpful.  Please feel free to visit our etiquette page for answers to other common questions. Or, you can contact us at Keohane.com.