What to Wear to a Funeral (2024)

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If you're getting ready to attend a funeral, you might be wondering about proper etiquette for sending flowers, what to say and how to say it, and how to choose the right funeral attire. The most important thing to remember is that you should never call attention to yourself with your attire, so it's best to avoid wearing bright colors or eye-catching prints. The focus should be on the reason you're there—but you should also consider factors like the weather when choosing what to wear.

Here, learn how to pick out appropriate funeral attire for all ages along with dos and don'ts for the occasion.

Dos and Don'ts of Funeral Attire

Dos

• Do dress conservatively: A funeral is a somber occasion, so it is best to dress in conservative colors and styles in semi-formal attire.
• Do wear appropriate colors: 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. Opt for colors like dark gray or blue if you don't have appropriate black clothing.
• Do consider cultural preferences: Some cultures may prefer certain colors or patterns. Be considerate of the family's culture when choosing funeral attire.

Don'ts

• Don't underdress: As a general rule, it's best to wear funeral attire that leans on the formal side without being flashy. Business casual clothing that does not include bright colors or wild prints is a good option.
  
• Don't wear casual wear: Casual clothing, beachwear, athletic wear, or sporty shoes should not be worn to a funeral.
• Don't wear jeans: Shy away from wearing jeans, even black ones, because they are considered too casual for a funeral. If you must wear a pair of black jeans, pair it with a tailored blazer, a nice shirt, and shoes (not sneakers) to make the look more fitting for the occasion.

What to Wear to a Funeral: Adults

Here are respectful rules to follow when dressing for a funeral:

• Keep dress hems at knee-length or below the knee.
• A pantsuit or dress pants and a jacket are both acceptable options for funerals.
• Wear a tailored cover-up, such as a jacket or sweater, over a sleeveless garment to avoid exposed skin. Wear a lightweight jacket to stay comfortable if the weather is warm.
• Keep footwear simple, sturdy, flat, and with a closed toe so you can walk safely over uneven ground.
• Avoid wearing noisy jewelry or large accessories, such as hats or caps, that could be considered an obstacle to others. Wear plain, unembellished sunglasses for outdoor services.
  
• Avoid wearing items with logos, graphics, or writing on them.
  

What to Wear to a Funeral: Teens and Kids

Parents and guardians can use the same guidance for colors, patterns, and dressing conservatively when helping kids, including babies and infants, choose appropriate funeral attire.Here are specific tips:

• Choose a clean, respectful, and buttoned-up outfit in a neutral shade, such as black, gray, navy, or khaki.
• Allow your child to wear something soft and comfortable to eliminate fussing.
• Avoid bright colors, glittery items, sporty, or graphic attire.
• Keep your child's appearance and hairstyle uncomplicated and unembellished.
• Select comfortable, sturdy, flat, closed-toe shoes.
  

Additional Tips for Funeral Attire

As you choose something to wear to a funeral, there are several more things you need to take into account. The following tips and manners apply to all genders and ages:

• Prepare your clothing ahead of time and check for stains, wash dirty items, and iron your clothes to remove wrinkles. Make sure you properly wash dark clothes to avoid fading.
• Do not wear anything that feels scratchy or requires constant adjusting because you may feel uncomfortable.
• Follow the dress code for a place of worship if the funeral service is being held in the sanctuary.
• If you are unsure how to dress, wear what you would wear to an office job interview or ask a family member of the deceased. That's better than showing up in inappropriate attire.
• You don't have to buy a new outfit. Look in your closet and put pieces together to make an appropriate ensemble; A nice jacket can complete an outfit for a funeral.
• Keep your hairstyle as simple and natural as possible.
• Do not wear strong scents or body lotions that may cause allergic reactions, sneezing, or coughing during the services.