At a funeral, attendees must take special care to practice proper etiquette in respect to the deceased and their loved ones. However, many people are unaware of the guidelines when it comes to appropriate attire. Below are a few essential do’s and don’ts to help you pick out a respectful outfit for a funeral service.

Do:

Consider the Religion

Different faiths have their own customs when it comes to proper funeral attire. Research the traditions before attending the service. For instance, Jewish etiquette requests men and women cover their heads, while Hindu traditions ask mourners to wear white instead of black. 

Avoid Bold Colors

Subdued shades, such as black, dark blue, and gray, are most commonly appropriate for funerals. Unless specifically requested by the deceased or the grieving family, never wear bright-colored or flashy clothing. This can be interpreted as a sign of disrespect and can draw attention away from the service.

Don’t:

Wear Anything Revealing

Avoid articles of clothing that are too short or reveal an excess amount of skin. Women wearing sleeveless dresses should bring a shawl or sweater to cover their shoulders. No matter the temperature, men should wear long pants.

Dress Casually

When in doubt, dress how you would for a job interview. Men may wear a dress suit with a tie or a button-down shirt with slacks. For women, dark dresses, pantsuits, or blouses with skirts or dress pants are considered appropriate. Flat shoes or pumps are a good choice for footwear; avoid open-toed sandals and flip-flops. 

Follow the above tips to dress appropriately for any funeral or memorial service. If you need assistance with funeral planning services, turn to the compassionate staff at Melvin T. Strider Colonial Funeral Home. Based in Charles Town, WV, this full-service funeral home assists families with every aspect of the arrangements to help ease the burden during a difficult time. Give them a call today at (304) 725-7068 to speak with a staff member, or visit them online for more information on their services.