Choosing the right attire for a funeral can be a delicate matter. While there are no hard rules, some colors are generally considered inappropriate to wear when attending a funeral service or burial. Understanding what colors to avoid can help you select an outfit that shows respect for the deceased and grieving family members.
Black
Black is the traditional color of mourning in many cultures. A black outfit conveys solemnity and is unlikely to be perceived as inappropriate at a funeral. Black dresses, suits, pants, and shirts are standard choices for both men and women when attending a funeral.
Gray
Like black, gray is viewed as an appropriate color for funeral attire. Darker shades of gray in particular complement a black outfit when worn together. Lighter grays can also work well for attire that is understated but respectful.
White
White is traditionally seen as inappropriate to wear at a funeral in Western cultures. Because white is associated with weddings and other celebrations, wearing white may give the impression that you do not appreciate the solemnity of the occasion. All-white outfits should generally be avoided.
Red
Bright red clothing is widely considered unsuitable for funerals. Red is an attention-grabbing color associated with boldness, excitement, and celebration. Wearing bright red risks coming across as disrespectful or distracting. Darker burgundy shades may be acceptable for accessorizing if worn sparingly.
Neon Colors
Similar to red, clothing in neon colors like bright yellow, green, pink, or orange is too playful and risks standing out in a disrespectful manner. Neon colors should be avoided in all funeral attire.
Prints and Patterns
Clothing with busy prints like florals, animal prints, polka dots, and stripes tend to be seen as too casual and bold for somber occasions like funerals. Instead, solids or subtle patterns like pinstripes or small checks are preferable. Avoid overly bright or distracting prints.
Short Dresses and Skirts
Revealing hemlines are inappropriate choices for a funeral. Short skirts, short dresses, mini dresses, and anything overly figure-hugging or attention-grabbing should be avoided. A conservative knee-length dress or below or pants are safer options.
Casual Styles
Clothing that is very casual can come across as disrespectful for a funeral service or burial. Items like jeans, shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, sweatpants, leggings, and flip flops are too informal. Opt for dress pants, collared shirts, suits, button-downs, slacks, blazers, and closed-toe shoes.
Sparkles and Glitter
Clothing with sparkles, sequins, glitter, or other highly shiny embellishments risks seeming festive and drawing excess attention. Save the sparkles for other occasions and opt for matte, darker-toned fabrics when dressing for a funeral.
Bold Accessories
Loud, attention-grabbing jewelry and accessories are not fitting for a subdued, grief-focused event like a funeral. Avoid statement necklaces, big hoop earrings, jangly bracelets, or novelty accessories. Keep it simple and understated.
Ripped Styles
Excessively ripped, distressed, or intentionally damaged-looking clothing can come across as irreverent and inappropriate for mourning a loss. Opt for clothing that is clean, crisp, and not overly casual or edgy when attending a funeral.
Hats (for men)
With rare exceptions, men should avoid wearing hats during funeral services as a sign of respect. While women may wear formal hats or head coverings, hats are generally seen as too casual for men attending a funeral.
Sunglasses
Wearing sunglasses during a funeral service or burial is widely viewed as disrespectful, giving the impression you are disengaged or want to hide reactions. Save sunglasses for before and after the service or bring normal eyeglasses if needed.
What are some exceptions?
While the above guidelines represent broad conventions for funeral wear in Western cultures, there are some exceptions:
- Some cultures have different color traditions – white may be worn at Asian funerals
- Religious traditions may dictate certain colors or head coverings
- The deceased may have specified colors they wish attendees to wear
- Black is not mandatory – darker shades of blue, gray, brown may also be appropriate
When in doubt, opt for modest, conservative colors and styles that show deference to the deceased and their family.
Conclusion
Choosing funeral-appropriate clothing comes down to avoiding colors and styles that are attention-grabbing, casual, or indicative of celebration. Sticking with subdued, dark-toned solids and simple classic silhouettes demonstrates respect. Consider the cultural context but in general, avoid white, red, neon hues, flashy patterns, revealing hemlines, ripped fabrics, and loud accessories for a funeral.
| Colors to Avoid | Better Color Choices |
|---|---|
| White | Black, Dark Gray, Navy |
| Red, Neon Colors | Forest Green, Dark Brown |
| Patterns, Stripes | Solid Colors, Subtle Checks |
Dressing appropriately for a funeral shows empathy and awareness of grieving families. Avoiding flashy, casual, or party-like colors and styles demonstrates your intention to pay respects in a thoughtful, solemn way as you mourn the passing of someone’s loved one.