A funeral service is a tragic occasion, and you want to be there for the family members of the deceased. One way you can do this is by attending the memorial service in simple, respectful attire. This can be confusing or intimidating for some, so the guide below is designed to help you pick the right clothes. Follow these do’s and don’ts to find simple outfits that are appropriate for grieving.

Do:

Wear muted colors.

It was once expected that widows and close family members would wear dark colors for several years after the funeral. While this norm is long-gone, black is still the standard color for mourning. Men should keep it respectful with a black suit, black tie, and muted dress shirt. Women can opt for dresses, pantsuits, or skirts and blouses in muted colors, but should avoid anything form-fitting.

Ask for advice.

If you’re unsure of what you should wear, there’s no shame in consulting someone you know with sensible fashion taste. They’ll be able to recommend an outfit that is conservative enough to fit in. You can also ask a family member for advice, or give the funeral home a call to inquire about standard dress. You might feel embarrassed, but it’s much better than showing up to the funeral service and realizing you stick out.

Don’t:

Call attention to yourself.

If there’s one thing you don’t want to do, it’s seem like you’re trying to get attention. The focus of this ceremony is honoring the memory of the one who has passed. You can honor this by limiting the accessories that you wear and avoid flashy colors and cuts. If it looks like something you’d wear to a nightclub or on a date, it’s better off in your closet.

Attend underdressed.

The opposite end of this spectrum is underdressing, which calls attention to you in a different way. Baseball caps, loose-fitting clothing, and sneakers are all signs that you didn’t put much thought into your outfit. In addition to a well-fitted, modest outfit you should be well-groomed and recently showered.

In the midst of grief, putting together an outfit can seem like an overwhelming detail. However, know that your friends and loved ones are there to support you. If you need a funeral service with a compassionate staff, Neidhard-Minges Funeral Home serves Westwood, Cincinnati, Cheviot, Bridgetown, Delhi, Green Township, Addyston, Northgate, and Covedale. To learn about their offerings and aftercare program, call (513) 661-3022 for Cincinnati or (513) 367-4544 for Harrison. You can also visit their website to learn about their legacy since 1860.