Stick to dark, solid shades if you don’t have any black clothes, or if you just prefer not to wear black. [3] X Expert Source Nejla ReneeFashion Stylist & Image Consultant Expert Interview. 18 May 2020. Navy-blues, dark grays, dark greens, and browns are all good shades. However, make sure you get an understanding of the type of funeral before selecting your outfit. For a more traditional funeral, it’s advised to err on the side of caution and go for the classic black.
Bright colors should not be part of your outfit at all. A black dress with pink stripes near the bottom, or a black suit over a red button-down shirt, is not appropriate for a funeral. However, in rare cases there is an exception to this rule. Family members, on occasion, may request brighter colors, or a particular color, to honor the deceased. Always go with the family’s wishes in this case.
Black, dark gray, or navy suits are a good option. Ties and dress pants should be in similarly dark shades. You can also go with a dark-colored button-down shirt and tie. [4] X Research source It’s respectful to dress up—avoid wearing anything too casual like shorts or flip-flops, and cover up so you don’t show too much skin. [5] X Expert Source Nejla ReneeFashion Stylist & Image Consultant Expert Interview. 18 May 2020. Longer dresses and skirts are generally advised for a funeral. Avoid anything too form-fitting, as this may look like a going out outfit rather than a formal one. A dark-colored blouse and dress pants are also a good option. [6] X Research source
As always though, remember to respect the wishes of the deceased’s family. In some cases, a particular pattern may be requested.
Black dress shoes or flats are a good option. A nice pair of dark green, navy blue, gray, or black flats or dress shoes are always a great option for a funeral. If it’s not a super formal funeral, dark-colored tennis shoes or converse sneakers can also work. Always err on the side of formality, however.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. If you have, say, a novelty tie the deceased gave to you, family members may appreciate this gesture. You may want to check ahead of time, just to make sure this won’t be taken the wrong way.
A light covering of foundation and a nude lipstick is best. Add a small amount of blush, if you want, as well as some very light eye shadow and mascara. As always, there may be exceptions depending on the wishes of family members. If you’re, for example, going to the funeral of someone who worked in theater, family members may request flashier, theatrical makeup.
If you wear earrings, choose respectful ones. Large dangly pieces, or hoop earrings, are a bit too flashy for a funeral. Instead, opt for stud earrings.
For example, certain religions may require extreme modesty from women during funeral services. You don’t want to show up in a dress or skirt that’s too short. An internet search can let you know about religious rituals. However, it’s generally better to ask someone from the family. They can give you the best instructions regarding how to dress.
Bright colors are associated with mourning in some cultures. In Korea, blue is the color of mourning. In Egypt and Ethiopia, yellow is considered a mourning color. In some Middle Eastern cultures, white is considered a funeral color.
Even with things like raincoats and umbrellas, remember you’re at a funeral. A bright pink umbrella is not generally appropriate for a funeral setting. Black umbrellas, and dark-colored raincoats, are generally the best option. You should also stick to dark-colored coats and jackets. It may be considered bad form to show up for an outdoor burial wearing a white coat.
