What to Wear to a Funeral (Not Black) - Ideas for Men & Women | Blog | Stark Funeral Professionals of Ypsilanti (2024)

FAQs

What to Wear to a Funeral (Not Black) - Ideas for Men & Women | Blog | Stark Funeral Professionals of Ypsilanti? ›

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.

If you're attending a traditional funeral, you might want to stick to formal clothes in dark colours. This doesn't have to be black – it could be grey or burgundy. Dresses or skirts / trousers, jacket and a top, whatever you consider looks smart will be fine.

Slacks, khakis, and collared shirts for men. Dresses, skirts, blouses, and slacks for women. Casual shoes such as loafers, dress sneakers, or dress sandals. Jeans are usually okay as long as they are not ripped or too tight fitting.

While you should generally steer clear of bright colours and loud prints (unless otherwise requested), other things to avoid include very revealing or overly casual clothes, like ripped jeans, a sheer top, or pieces with inappropriate cut-out details. Accessory-wise, keep things minimal.

In western cultures, red is often seen as a color of joy, love, and vitality. It's the color of celebrations and positive energy. Wearing red to a funeral would be considered inappropriate because it would clash with the somber atmosphere and be viewed as disrespectful.

First and foremost, dress appropriately. This means no jeans, shorts, or tank tops. Instead, opt for dark, conservative clothing. Women should avoid wearing anything too revealing or flashy, and men should make sure their clothing is clean and wrinkle-free.

Be conservative

Traditionally speaking, funeral clothes should be black; however navy, grey and brown are also OK. When it comes to accessories, keep them minimal and steer away from bright colours – dress as you would for an interview.

If you want to ensure you always look appropriate in your clothes as a 60-plus man, consider investing in classic, timeless pieces. Embracing classic men's fashion styles like a crisp oxford shirt, flat-front chinos, and white leather sneakers will make getting dressed easier and give you more confidence.

What do women wear to a funeral? A skirt or dress – these should be knee-length and not flashy or revealing, normally with tights. A pair of smart trousers – jeans and other casual trousers are not appropriate for a funeral. A pair of smart full-length or ankle grazer trousers in a dark colour can be a good option.

Though today's etiquette no longer demands that funeral attendees wear all black, opting for dark muted colors is always a smart choice. Unless specifically asked for by the host, bright colors, flashy prints and trendy accessories won't be well received.

How do you look chic at a funeral? ›

Choose a simple black dress, pencil skirt, and white top with a smart blazer. Funerals are not the cheeriest venue to showcase your fashion.

Dresses:** A knee-length or longer dress in a dark or muted color is a classic choice for a funeral. Black is always appropriate, but other dark colors like navy, charcoal gray, or deep purple are also suitable. Opt for a modest neckline and avoid anything too revealing. **2.

What do you wear to a casual funeral if the family simply says it's "Casual"? If the family has not specified what they would like attendees to wear, a good rule of thumb is to dress as you would for a nice dinner out. This might mean slacks and a blazer for men, or a sundress for women.

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.

Black. The idea of black as a mourning colour is believed to have emerged during Roman times. The colour has long been associated with death and loss and is still a common mourning colour today.

The family of someone who dies wears white mourning, in the hope that their loved ones are reborn again. The idea of white mourning, otherwise known as deuil blanc in French, was formed during the 16th century when white was worn by bereaved children and unmarried women.

In terms of alternatives, a deep navy blue or dark grey is equally appropriate. If all else fails, lighter grey and brown are also acceptable. If it's a suit you're wearing, make sure the tie is also an appropriate colour, with black the preferred choice. Again, dark blue and grey are also fine if that's all you have.

Do I Have To Wear Black To A Funeral? Black is the safest bet, but you don't have to wear a solid black outfit. Consider other darker and solid colors when thinking of what to wear at a funeral. Dark gray, navy, and dark blue are other acceptable options for a funeral.

When arranging a colourful funeral, you can ask guests to wear colours of their choice or simply stick to one colour which may have been your loved one's favourite. We suggest giving attendees the option of wearing vibrant colours or dressing in traditional funeral colours, should they feel more comfortable doing so.

What do you wear to a casual funeral if the family simply says it's "Casual"? If the family has not specified what they would like attendees to wear, a good rule of thumb is to dress as you would for a nice dinner out. This might mean slacks and a blazer for men, or a sundress for women.