How to dress for a funeral
Free style of dress has become customary in all situations, including at work. Nowadays, a strict dress code is observed quite rarely. But what is the case when it comes to funerals? Should we wear strict black suits and laconic black dresses to funerals, or do the old rules no longer work for them?
The truth is somewhere in the middle, because those going to funerals are not required to wear all black, but at the same time they rarely come to such ceremonies in flashy outfits or tracksuits. Flashy clothes can distract the attention of the mourners, so it is better to dress conservatively.
How a woman should dress for a funeral
Give preference to dresses in dark or neutral colors or similar suits.
You can also choose a blouse, shirt or sweater with pants or a skirt. The main rule is that the colors should be neutral. It is also desirable that the clothes do not have patterns, stripes and any other prints.
Pay attention to clothing that was not too revealing. Avoid short skirts and deep necklines. Choose shoes with a low heel: you will probably walk on the grass, so a high heel will cause discomfort.
How a man should dress for a funeral
Traditionally, men chose a plain suit in dark colors. Now there are variations, too. It can be a casual suit, as well as a shirt with pants and a jacket. If you are used to ties, try to choose the most neutral option. Watch the shoes: they must be in perfect condition.
How to dress a child for a funeral
There are no very strict closet rules for children, especially when it comes to the smallest ones. But in general, the same standards apply as for adults. The most important thing is discreet or dark colors of clothing, blouses, pants, skirts, modest dresses and preferably dress shoes. In hot weather shorts are possible, but not denim and not bright.
How to dress if the funeral is in winter
In this case, attention is paid to outerwear. It is desirable not to choose jackets or parkas, but dark coats or raincoats.
How to dress if the funeral is in summer
In hot weather you will not wear a sweater or even a shirt, so the most important rule is to dress according to the weather, but modestly and neutrally. For example, you can choose a shirt with short sleeves, a loose but long skirt, light pants or a dress. It is better to choose closed shoes.
How to dress if you bury a close relative
The main rule is that you should be comfortable. Traditionally, the closest relatives of the deceased choose clothes in dark colors and in a conservative style.
What to wear if the deceased's family suggests a dress code
The obituary may include special dress code requests from the family of the departed person. For example, have guests come dressed in the deceased's favorite color or, for example, with a picture of a favorite character from a movie or t-shirts from a favorite team.
In that case, try to find things that will fit in a similar situation, but remember that all the main rules work. Do not choose too short and too flashy things, otherwise it will be inappropriate.
What not to wear to a funeral
Homemade and athletic clothing is not a good choice when you are going to a ceremony. Do not wear shorts, flip-flops, jeans, sweatshirts, yoga pants, sneakers or t-shirts.
Avoid too bright colors, clothes with sequins, too sexy clothes, dresses you wear to parties. Remember that in this way you can distract the attention of those present and not show proper respect to the person who left.
Be neat, make sure that all the things you choose for the ceremony are clean. Your clothes should not be wrinkled, it should not have small holes, stains, scuffs.
What to do if you don't know what to wear
If you are in doubt about the choice of clothes, contact the funeral home, which organizes the funeral. They will probably advise you because they already work with the deceased's family.