Typically, a pair of earrings and a necklace are fine. But try not to wear jewellery that is too eye-catching. For this case, simple necklaces and stud earrings are preferred. But if the deceased had gifted you with a piece of jewellery, now would be a good time to wear it, no matter the design.
Can You Wear Jewelry to a Funeral? Yes, you can choose to wear jewelry for a funeral, but in most cases, restraint is the key to accessorizing for a funeral or celebration of life. Wearing funeral jewelry that is subtle and modest shows respect not only to the deceased but to their family.
Avoid dressing in casual clothing, such as athletic wear, tank tops, or shorts. Skip the flip-flops, tennis shoes, sneakers, or boat shoes. Remove the neon necktie, purse, or accessory. Shy away from wearing jeans, even black ones, because they are considered too casual for a funeral.
Flashy accessories like big necklaces, bright jewels, and large hoop earrings are distracting. Not only do these take away from the service, but they can be seen as boastful for a funeral service. In addition, wearing sunglasses to a funeral is not appropriate unless it is outdoors.
An outfit for a funeral is not worn to get attention and should be relatively subtle. Likewise, accessories should compliment a look but should be small. Wear simple, traditional jewelry like a pearl necklace, diamond-stud earrings or a tennis bracelet.
A funeral is also not the place to turn up a mini LBD or sheer top, so hemlines should remain around or below the knee, and spaghetti straps are often a no-go. Instead, opt for a sleeveless, shoulder-length or long-sleeved dress, or pair a turtle neck with a pair of black flared trousers.
The tradition dates back to Queen Victoria's reign in the late 1800s. Following her husband's death, she wore black for 40 years—and her outfits were lightened only with the addition of pearls. It was said that the unique shape of a pearl also alludes to a tear drop, which is appropriate for mourning.
Dark or muted dresses are traditional and don't take attention away from the service. Shoulders should be covered in most cases. Skirts and dresses should reach the knee. Suits are also considered respectful and appropriate.
For women, adding color can be done through patterns and floral designs. Much like with men's funeral attire, color should be used to subtly accent your outfit. Try to make sure that your outfit does not have overly bright colors or wild patterns that draw attention.
A dress watch and wedding ring are acceptable, but avoid necklaces and earrings that draw attention to you, and away from the deceased and the grieving family. Casual dress shoes are appropriate for men, but tennis shoes and other very casual types of shoes are not appropriate.
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.
Most common funeral etiquette practices for women to wear include a dark or black skirt suit or pantsuit; a skirt of appropriate length or pants and a top with sleeves, a blouse, or a sweater; flats or pumps. In some cultures, and religions women wear hats to funerals.
Funeral Attire Colors
Black is still a safe choice for funerals. However, you're not limited to black. Other dark and muted colors also work well. Gray and navy are two popular options that fit the occasion.
"Talking or being on your phone during the service is one of the most disrespectful things you could do at a funeral," says Myka Meier, Beaumont Etiquette founder and etiquette expert. It's important to be as present as possible. "Silence your phone, shut off your phone, or even just leave it behind.
Photos, letters, religious tokens or personal items, flowers and jewellery are all items that can be buried and cremated. Obviously, anything combustible is excluded and you need to warn your funeral director in advance if you would like the items back.
It's fine to have bare legs on a hot day even at a funeral. If I saw you without tights at a funeral I wouldn't think anything was wrong. Your outfit is traditional and respectful.
What is appropriate clothing for a funeral? Traditionally, funeral etiquette suggests men and women wear black clothing that's conservative and respectful. Black or dark colours are most common, but some cultures expect mourners to wear a less traditional funeral colour.
Opt for plainer clothes over patterned clothes.
However, bright and flashy patterns are to be avoided, especially if they use flashy colors as well. A black shirt with red polka-dots, for example, is not a great choice for a funeral. As always though, remember to respect the wishes of the deceased's family.
Brown shades, lighter grays, and other earthy colors are acceptable for most funeral services. Be sure to avoid bright colors including yellow, red, pink, orange, and white.
Polo And Khakis
Be sure to tuck in your shirt and wear a black or brown belt and matching dress shoes. This is really the most casual you should dress to attend a funeral. You may be tempted to, but don't wear a tie with your polo shirt. A tie will actually make the polo shirt look more casual.
Traditional funerals are the most common type of funeral in Australia. They have three main components: the viewing or visitation, the funeral service, and the burial ceremony. They often feature the casket or coffin at the front of the service. Direct burial is one of the most cost-effective types of funerals.
Modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is best for a funeral. You can bring a wrap, jacket or blazer to wear during the service if you need an extra layer. It is usually best to dress in dark colours like black, grey, navy or taupe for a funeral.
Dressing appropriately for funerals around the world
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.
Crowds await patently on the historic Mall in London before funeral proceedings for Queen Elizabeth II get underway. Attending the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, Kate Middleton wore a necklace which was once borrowed by Princess Diana and worn by the Queen.
Pearl and white-coloured jewellery is also a good way to achieve this subtle effect. Sometimes the family may ask mourners to wear a brooch, badge or pin in memory of their loved one.