Life isn’t what you expected it to be. You thought you had more time with your grandma, but she passed away suddenly. Now you have to attend her funeral, and you’re not sure how to dress for a funeral.
According to funerals.com, “In Western culture, black has long been the traditional color of mourning.” If you don’t have any black clothing, now is the time to buy some. You don’t need to spend a lot of money, but try to find something that is comfortable and respectful.
It’s important to remember that a funeral is a somber occasion. You should dress respectfully and avoid anything too flashy or revealing.
How to dress for a funeral?
Here are some suggested clothing items for women attending a funeral:
1. A dress or skirt that falls below the knee
One of the most important things to remember when choosing what to wear to a funeral is to avoid anything too revealing. A dress or skirt that falls below the knee is a good option. According to The Spruce, “Dark colors are always appropriate for a funeral. Black is the traditional color, but navy blue also works well.”
You should avoid bright colors because a funeral is not the time to stand out. You want to show that you’re there to support the family and honor the person who has died. Women usually wear heels to a funeral, but if you’re uncomfortable in them, you can wear flats.
2. A blouse or sweater
Again, dark colors are best. You might want to avoid anything too loose-fitting because you don’t want it to look like you’re not taking the occasion seriously. A blouse or sweater that fits well and is respectful will do the trick.
Another option is a button-down shirt. But there may be a little more flexibility with this one. The Spruce says, “If you choose to wear a button-down shirt, it’s acceptable to leave the top few buttons undone. But be sure that your bra isn’t visible.”
3. A jacket or coat
You’ll want to wear a jacket or coat if it’s cold outside. A black jacket is a good option, but navy blue will work well. If you don’t have a black jacket, any dark-colored jacket will do. You can also wear a sweater over your blouse or shirt. Not only will this keep you warm, but it will also add an extra layer of respect. Now, who doesn’t want to be respectful and comfortable?
4. A scarf
A scarf is a good way to add a pop of color while still sticking to the dark colors that are appropriate for a funeral. A black scarf is always a good option, but if you want to add a little bit of personality, choose a scarf in a dark color that you like. You can also use a scarf as a way to cover up if you’re wearing a low-cut shirt or dress. On occasions such as these, it’s best to layer up. As per tradition, you might also want to consider wearing a veil.
5. Pants or slacks
If you’re not comfortable in a dress or skirt, you can wear pants or slacks. Again, dark colors are best. Black pants or slacks are always a good option, but navy blue or another dark color will also work well. You can wear a blouse, sweater, or shirt with your pants or slacks.
Just be sure that it’s not too loose-fitting or revealing. However, if you do choose to wear pants or slacks, The Spruce says, “It’s generally best to avoid jeans, as they are considered too casual for a funeral.”
6. Closed-toe shoes
When choosing shoes, it’s important to remember that you’ll be spending a lot of time standing. You’ll also be walking around a lot, so you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes. Closed-toe shoes are always a good option. Heels are usually worn to a funeral, but if you’re not comfortable in them, you can wear flats. Just be sure that your shoes are clean and respectful. Last but not least, you might want to consider wearing nylons or tights.
7. Accessories
When it comes to accessories, less is more. You don’t want to wear anything that’s too flashy or attention-seeking. A simple necklace or earrings are usually all that’s needed. If you wear a scarf, that can also be considered an accessory. You might also want to consider wearing a pin in honor of the person who has died.
8. Hosiery
If you’re wearing a dress or skirt, you’ll want to wear hosiery. Again, dark colors are best. Black is always a good option, but navy blue or another dark color will also work well. You can choose to wear tights, nylons, or leggings. Just be sure that they’re not too loose-fitting or revealing.
Summary
One of the most important things to remember when choosing what to wear to a funeral is that you should dress respectfully. Dark colors are always a good choice, and you’ll want to avoid anything that’s too loose-fitting or revealing.
A dress, skirt, pants, or slacks are all appropriate options. And be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be spending a lot of time standing. Accessories should be kept to a minimum, and if you’re wearing a dress or skirt, be sure to wear hosiery.
