What to Wear to a Funeral

As traditions in all areas of life have shifted and become less rigid, some things have become a little bit confusing. For instance, what are the appropriate clothes to wear for a funeral? A funeral is certainly not a casual affair, but do your funeral clothes really matter? They do, because what you wear to a funeral should show respect for the person who has died, as well as for that person’s loved ones.

Wearing appropriate funeral clothes honours the solemnity of the occasion, and this simple but meaningful gesture acknowledges the significance of this final farewell.

Traditionally, funeral clothes were black. Today, black is not always required, but muted or dark colours are generally preferred. Dress should be conservative and smart, never revealing or too casual. Unless otherwise requested, funeral attire should follow these simple guidelines.

• Smart funeral suit in black, dark blue, navy, or grey
• White collared shirt
• Plain black tie
• Plain belt
• Darkly coloured dress socks
• Polished and well-maintained black or dark brown dress shoes
• Appropriate outerwear for the weather, like a stylish, darkly coloured coat and an umbrella

• Smart knee-length or longer skirt or dress, or dark trousers
• A smart but plain blouse
• Cardigan or blazer
• Nice shoes that are flat or low-heeled, especially for a graveside service
• If a hat is recommended because of the religion of the deceased, make sure yours is small and subtle
• Minimal accessories

In some cases, the family of the deceased will request some deviation from the standard dress code for funerals. They might want people to dress in bright colours, for example, or wear something traditional to their cultural heritage. When this is the case, then that is the proper thing to wear, because the clothing you wear to a funeral should honour the person who has died.

So, what is inappropriate for a funeral? Anything that pulls focus away from the person who has died is not the right thing to wear. This includes suggestive or torn clothing, trainers or flip flops, t-shirts or jeans, excessive jewellery, caps, or colourful ties.

When you pass away, how do you want people to dress at your funeral? If you pre-plan your funeral or memorial, you can make decisions like that, putting into writing your wishes for how the funeral should be conducted. The best way to do this is to work with a funeral home to determine your options and create a unique plan that reflects your life and personality.

Founded in 2002 by Nigel Gillard, Bridgwater Funeral Services Limited, in the centre of Bridgwater, Somerset, is a family business that provides personal service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Traditions both old and modern are honoured here, with Green and Woodland burials, horse-drawn funerals, military funerals, and services in all religious denominations as well as non-religious and humanist life celebrations. We also offer low-cost funerals and Golden Charter pre-paid funeral plans. If you need help planning a funeral and want to learn more about our services, contact us through our website for information and resources.