What to wear or not to wear in funerals


Funerals are respectful occasions, and part of being respectful is dressing appropriately. This article covers Christian funerals. What is considered suitable dress for mourning varies by country and culture.


Moreover, Going to a funeral is never an easy or enjoyable thing to do. Dressing appropriately for the service is important, because it shows respect for the deceased and for the other loved ones attending the service. When dressing for a funeral, you don't necessarily have to go out and buy anything new. Just remember to dress as nicely and modestly as possible.



Men


Wear a black suit with a white shirt. 


Accessorize with a long, neutral necktie. Think twice about wearing too much jewelry or hair product.

• However, there are always exceptions to the rules. A blue suit with a black turtleneck, black dress shirt with long red tie, black dress shirt (no tie; first button unbuttoned), or a black T-shirt (clean, kind of silky) could all be acceptable depending on the family.
• If you are a pall-bearer, you should expect to wear a suit or a dark sports coat and tie at the very least.

Women

Like the men, a woman should chose classic black attire for a funeral. 
Leave the sexy, revealing clothes at home in your closet.

• Some color accessorizing is acceptable. But don't wear too much jewelry. You're not going to the opera, for goodness sakes.

Children

Children should be appropriately dressed as well. Little boys should be outfitted in a black suit, possibly similar to Daddy's. Little girls should wear a "box-like" dress that flows straight down from the shoulders without any unnecessary beading or sequins.

• Pay attention to the shoes. Ballet flats may be a good choice for girls and boys may wear black dress shoes or loafers (like Dad's) or even plain black sneakers.

General Rules

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   Plan to wear something tasteful and conservative. This is especially important if there is a religious service at a church, funeral home or graveside. Black, navy, gray or other dark colors usually appear more conservative. A "sexy" dress, even if black, is not appropriate, as some churches prefer the shoulders remain covered.
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   Don't forget about the shoes. Leave your flip flops, Timberlands and athletic wear at home. Opt instead for more sensible and appropriate shoes.
   • Note: shoes should be polished. Don't wear scruffy shoes to a funeral.
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   As a rule of thumb, dress as you would for church. Or, if you don't go to church, think about what you'd wear to a job interview. Dresses are appropriate for women. Avoid sun dresses (unless you have a wrap or are a very young child), celebratory patterns (i.e. martini glasses or wild prints), or anything too flashy (i.e. sequins, unless minimal). Gentlemen should wear a sports coat or suit.
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   Consider the temperature and dress accordingly. Men can opt to remove their jackets for anything outside but should at least wear them inside for any services.
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   Funerals out of town may necessitate that you bring multiple outfits or be able to adjust your suit with different shirts, ties, etc. on different days.
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   Some do not believe that funeral attire should be strictly black in color. While the person's death should be grieved, it seems also appropriate to celebrate the person's life with some color. Don't wear anything too bright like lime green or neon yellow, but perhaps a deep red or a pale blue.