What You Should (And Shouldn't’) Wear to a Funeral

While there are several articles about what you should wear to a funeral service, sometimes you still may have questions about what you shouldn’t wear. While it can be tricky dressing for this solemn service, directors of funeral homes in Ukiah, CA. have these tips and advice to help you know exactly what is-and isn’t appropriate. 

Wardrobe Pieces to Wear 

The first thing to know is that funerals are fairly formal events. This means that wardrobe pieces should reflect a nice, dressed up appearance. 

Wardrobe Piece for Women: 

• A blouse and skirt 
  
• Skirt suit (appropriate length) 
  
• Dress 
  
• Skirt and sweater 
  
• Pants and top with sleeves 
  
• Pant suit 

Wardrobe Pieces for Men: 

• Polo shirt, slacks and a belt 
  
• Dress suit with tie 
  
• Button-down shirt with tie, slacks and belt 
  
• Button-down shirt, vest, slacks, belt 
  
• A blazer can be added to any of the above 

Appropriate Colors for a Funeral Service 

While black is always a s standard color when it comes to clothing, other colors are also acceptable. Some of these colors are: 

• Dark Grays 
  
• Deep Blues 
  
• Brown Shades 
  
• Earthy Tones 
  
• Deep Purples 
  
• Dark Deep Greens 

What Not to Wear to a Funeral 

While some funerals may opt for a little more casual feel, there are some items you should steer clear of when dressing for such an event. While some of these items may seem obviously inappropriate for a funeral, you may be surprised to know that some people still may try and wear them. 

• Baseball caps- If you must wear a hat go for something stylish like a fedora. Leave the baseball cap at home. 
  
• Flip flops- These shoes are great for the beach but not appropriate for a funeral 
  
• Party clothes- Outfits that may be great to wear to the club are not something you should wear a funeral 
  
• Anything ripped or frayed- You want your attire to look clean and tidy, If anything is ripped or frayed, choose another item. 
  
• Pajamas – People are wearing pajamas more and more out in public places and events. While it may seem obvious to most, a funeral is not the place to wear them. 

Extra Tips for Dressing Appropriately 

Funerals are not a time to make a fashion statement or stand out. Rather these services are to pay respect to the deceased as well as the grieving family. It is about them today, not you. To make sure you don’t stand out for the wrong reasons, keep these additional tips in mind when selecting your outfit: 

• Shirts and dresses should cover up to the neck so avoid open collars 
  
• Skirts and dresses should be appropriate length. No miniskirts. 
  
• Dress as you would for a job interview or a Sunday morning church service 
  
• Don’t wear anything revealing 
  
• Be considerate of any religious settings/ requirements. For example, some setting may require shoulders and knees covered 

When dressing for a funeral service, follow these tips and advice from the directors of funeral homes in Ukiah, CA. you will be able to put together a winning outfit.