No matter what time of year a funeral is held, it's important that attendees dress respectfully. With that said, summertime funerals—especially those in which all or part of the service is held outdoors—necessitate some slight wardrobe changes to ensure comfort and coolness. Here are a few tips to help you dress your best for a summer funeral.

How to Dress for a Summer Funeral

1. Consider Short Sleeves

Short sleeves are typically a safe choice for informal funerals held during a warmer time of year. They tend to be looser fitting and better-ventilated, and they expose the skin of the arms without sacrificing modesty. When choosing a short-sleeved shirt or dress, opt for a design that doesn't reveal the shoulders or the chest, or wear a shawl to cover exposed skin.

2. Wear Colors Other Than Black

There was a time when it was the standard that mourners wear black to funerals. This has changed over the years, and other dark or neutral colors are now acceptable. A lighter neutral color like beige or slate gray doesn't absorb heat like black and dark blue, so you'll be more comfortable outside. Avoid bright colors and loud patterns at all costs.

3. Try Clothes Made of Breathable Fabrics

When selecting fabric types, lean toward something lighter and more breathable. Cotton, linen, chambray, and silk are lighter in weight and less prone to trapping heat, air, and moisture inside. Though wearing a nice pair of dark jeans is not uncommon at modern funerals, steer clear of denim in the warmer months to maintain coolness.

Ultimately, your presence at a funeral is more important than what you wear. When planning or making pre-arrangements for funerals, trust Porto Funeral Homes. For more than 75 years, they have been providing the New Haven County, CT, region with funeral, burial, cremation services. They are dedicated to the highest levels of professional, compassionate care during difficult times. To schedule a consultation, call their East Haven location at (203) 467-3000 or their West Haven location at (203) 934-5000, or visit them online.