It's tradition to wear a white shirt at a funeral, but a plain, unpatterned buttoned shirt in a muted colour is okay. Shoes should be dark, clean and polished. Dresses, skirts and trouser suits can be all be worn to a funeral – the focus is on conservatism.
As a neutral color, white should not be considered inappropriate at most North American funerals. Though you should ask the family hosting the service when in doubt, plain, neutral colors are generally acceptable for memorials. Wearing white in conjunction with other dark tones is absolutely appropriate.
For most funerals' outfits are traditionally black. Still, unless you've had specific instructions on the invite to wear bright colours or one particular colour specifically, it's better to air on the side of caution and stick to dark colours in Australia.
Soft and subtle colours are widely accepted as part of the preferred dress code for a funeral. Unless you have been advised of a specific request for colour, it might be best to wear an outfit of black, grey, navy or taupe.
Don't assume that the family expects every single person to wear head-to-toe black unless they've told you this directly. Some white, as part of an otherwise simple, relatively dressed-up and conservative outfit, is usually fine.
Wearing dark grey or deep blue is just as appropriate as black, while brown and lighter greys are suitable for the vast majority of funeral services. However, unless specifically requested by the deceased or their family, you should avoid any bright colors such as yellows, oranges, pinks, and reds.
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.
Funeral attire is typically classic in style and dark in colour. A navy, grey or black business suit couple with a white collared shirt and a subtle tie is perfect for funeral wear. Try to limit your accessories and maintain an understated style when attending a funeral.
In terms of alternatives, a deep navy blue or dark grey is equally appropriate. If all else fails, lighter grey and brown are also acceptable. If it's a suit you're wearing, make sure the tie is also an appropriate colour, with black the preferred choice. Again, dark blue and grey are also fine if that's all you have.
The most common answer is that jeans aren't considered appropriate funeral etiquette unless requested by the family. However, dark, unembellished jeans paired with a shirt, tie, and blazer for men or a blouse and a blazer for women can be appropriate for a casual service.
Avoid beach-ready wear, bright prints or party outfits, unless the obituary has specified a funeral dress code. It's proper to wear hosiery and closed-toe shoes to funerals, but dress sandals may be acceptable for women to wear in summer months, if they conservatively complement the outfit.
A nice shirt and skirt in dark colors. Shirts that aren't low-cut and that also have some sort of sleeve are usually considered appropriate for funerals.
First and foremost, dress appropriately. This means no jeans, shorts, or tank tops. Instead, opt for dark, conservative clothing. Women should avoid wearing anything too revealing or flashy, and men should make sure their clothing is clean and wrinkle-free.
The family of someone who dies wears white mourning, in the hope that their loved ones are reborn again. The idea of white mourning, otherwise known as deuil blanc in French, was formed during the 16th century when white was worn by bereaved children and unmarried women.
A clean, white dress shirt is the best choice. A subdued color like gray or black can also work. Again, avoid bright colors. The focus of any funeral is to mourn the deceased while also celebrating their life.
In the West, showing respect at a funeral typically requires conservative attire in black or dark colors. However, white is the color of mourning in China, and for Sikh, Hindu, and some Muslim services.
You Don't Have To Wear Black
If you don't own any black clothing, you may always opt for a subtle hue that is appropriate for formal settings. In addition, stay away from anything with distracting patterns or prints.
Because a funeral is often a somber occasion, it's best to choose clothes that reflect that. Your clothing does not have to be all black. It's common for funeral attendees to wear navy blue, dark grey, violet, and many other colors.
Go as colourful as you feel is appropriate. Feel free to go to town or be more subtle. A lovely pop of colour can be achieved by guests adding one bright piece like a scarf, tie, hair accessory or piece of jewellery to their outfits.
While it's true that you don't have to wear black, you should dress in a way that shows respect. That means avoiding bright colors, flashy prints, and glittery fabrics. A good rule of thumb is to dress as if you are attending a serious business meeting.
An Australian funeral is usually about a week after the death and most people wear black clothing. Like in North America, funeral personalization is a popular funeral trend. Many people want more music, non-traditional funerals such as an outdoor service, and other special requests for unique memorial services.
Sweater And Dress Pants
Just like a suit, not everyone owns a dress shirt and tie, but this shouldn't stop you from attending a funeral. A nice sweater and dress pants can be funeral appropriate, weather permitting. Keep both pieces of clothing dark, and any pattern on your sweater should be very low key.
Stick to Neutral Colors
These flashy prints and colors are a distraction, taking attention away from the deceased. While you don't need to feel pressured to strictly wear black, especially with hot weather, it's best to be respectful. Wearing neutral colors like gray, navy, white, and beige is always a good idea.
Funeral outfits: Ideas for women
If you're attending a traditional funeral, you might want to stick to formal clothes in dark colours. This doesn't have to be black – it could be grey or burgundy. Dresses or skirts / trousers, jacket and a top, whatever you consider looks smart will be fine.
The black skirt is completely fine for a funeral. The polka-dotted blouse is more of a judgment call. With funerals being solemn, somewhat formal occasions, one's attire should reflect that, or at least not contradict that. Polka-dots are a fun, whimsical print, more so when the dots are large.