A funeral is a time to commemorate someone’s life, and it’s important to dress accordingly. Every person is unique, and there may be specific dress codes to adhere to. Likewise, there may be no guidelines, leaving you to wonder what to wear. There are key general rules to follow to ensure you’re respectful, several of which are below. Stick with them to eliminate any worries about attending the service.

Tips to Determine to Proper Funeral Attire

1. Always Be Respectful

Black dress clothes are the most common funeral attire for many people, so if you’re stumped, you can always stick to a suit and tie or conservative dress. Make sure they’re clean and neat in appearance—iron them and ensure there is no pet hair or noticeable fluffs. Additionally, don’t wear bright colors or low-cut, short dresses or T-shirts with lettering, as you don’t want to draw attention from the deceased and their family. When in doubt, it’s safe to dress formally.

2. Adhere to Cultural Attire

Depending on the deceased’s cultural and religious beliefs, a special dress code may be enforced. This can range from what color to wear to specific types of clothing, such as hats, long dresses, or button-up shirts. It’s imperative to honor these guidelines regardless if you belong to the same culture and beliefs. If you’re not sure how to abide, speak with funeral home staff or the family.

3. When in Doubt, Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask someone if you aren’t sure what to wear. Reach out to others attending the service, the funeral home, or the family. You’ll get direct answers and can ask any additional questions as needed. This is the best way to know you’re sticking to what the family and deceased want. Don’t wait until the last minute, however, as you may need to purchase new clothes.

For over 100 years, Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home Inc. has proudly served residents of Canandaigua, NY. They understand how difficult it is to lose a loved one and take every measure to ensure their clients’ comfort. They offer several services, including funeral planning, cremation, and pre-planning services—all of which you can explore on their website. If you have questions, call (585) 394-4280 to speak with a representative.