What to Wear at a Funeral
Attending a funeral often brings challenges and difficult emotions. Knowing what to wear shouldn’t be something you need to worry about, but understandably, you’d still want to show respect to the deceased.
With that in mind, we’ve created together this guide to help you, giving you less to worry about before the funeral.
Traditional Funeral Attire
The most commonly accepted attire for funerals is conservative. Black is the traditional colour for UK funerals, reflecting the mood of mourning and respect. Other dark shades are also acceptable if you don’t own black clothing: think dark greys, blues, or greens.
A modest dress or suit is usually ideal for women. Tops or blouses should be simple, avoiding bright patterns or revealing styles.
For footwear, stick to the dark colour scheme; closed-toe shoes or modest heels are recommended, and it’s best to avoid casual footwear like trainers or sandals. Accessories should be minimal and not showy, although a traditional touch, hats, or fascinators are optional.
Men are expected to wear a dark suit with a shirt and tie. If this isn’t possible, dark trousers paired with a smart jacket or blazer will still be appropriate, so stick to modest shoes and avoid open toes or trainers.
Modern or Informal Funerals
Nowadays, not all funerals adhere to traditional dress codes. To reflect the deceased’s personality or preferences, some funerals may have specific instructions about what to wear, if in doubt it’s always a good idea to check the invitation for guidance.
If the funeral is indicated as less formal, smart-casual attire can is suitable. Think a dress or smart blouse for women, while men could wear a shirt with trousers and a blazer without a tie.
Families may request specific colours or patterns are worn, you could try incorporating this into your outfit in a more casual way with a tie, scarf, or other accessory.
Cultural and Religious Considerations
Different cultures and religions have different expectations for funeral attire.
For example, traditional Hindu funerals often favour white clothing as a symbol of peace. Sikh funerals call for modest attire with head coverings for women. At Jewish funerals, conservative, dark clothing is the norm, and head coverings such as a kippah may be required for men. If you need clarification about the appropriate dress code, it’s always best to ask or do some research beforehand or ask the family if you can.
What to Avoid
Bright colours and casual clothing like jeans, shorts, and T-shirts are generally seen as inappropriate unless the family specifies otherwise.
Accessories, such as large statement jewellery, should also be avoided as they can distract from the event’s solemn nature. The goal is to maintain a respectful, understated appearance.
Final Tips
When attending a funeral, it’s important to show your respect through your presence and your attire. Always check if the family has any specific requests regarding dress. Comfort is also crucial; ensure your clothing and shoes are suitable for sitting or standing for extended periods. Opting for conservative, dark attire is the safest approach when in doubt.
Ultimately, your presence and respect matter more than your outfit. Dressing appropriately shows your support for the grieving family and honours the memory of the deceased.
