What to Wear to a Funeral

Funeral is a time when silence alone speaks volumes. Mourning the departed, is something that is not easy for people who have lost their dear ones. The most, one could help him or her is by offering heart felt condolences and maintaining a discretion to let the sufferer emote in a way he can, in such trying times. Besides the way, one has to deal with, in such situations, there is one more thing which should be taken into consideration, for people who attend a funeral, and that is the way they dress for the occasion, a funeral attire. Many people often ponder over, what to wear to a funeral viewing...? Or what is appropriate to wear to a funeral...? And so on....

What Should You Wear to a Funeral?
When it comes to funeral etiquette, the first thing that comes to your mind is black. A black dress, to be precise. Men and women belonging to the family will have to wear black, which is by the tradition. Friends and other acquaintances, can wear clothing of subdued or faded colors like gray, light blue, light lavender or navy blue. Jarring colors must be best avoided, as the occasion is to celebrate the deceased and there should not be an instance, which hurts the sentiments of the deprived family. So here are some funeral dressing tips for both men and women.

Funeral Attire for Men?
For men, the best choice on the clothes to wear to a funeral, is a dark suit of black or dark gray or navy blue color. A dark-colored tie, or one with a classic pattern (like stripes) would best complement your suit for the occasion. Shirt color can be light colored (like white), which would match the attire. Make sure that the socks match the color of shoes, which should be of a darker shade like dark brown or black. The belt worn, also should be of the same color as shoes. Jackets can be worn, pertaining to cold weather. Watch with a thick and dark leather band is the only accessory item to be worn by men. Not to miss out on one important thing here, make sure, you shave before the occasion, as appearance does matter here. And NEVER wear shorts, casual dresses (like jeans) and sandals for a funeral, as it totally disrespects the feelings of the deceased's family. If you have a hat, leave it in the car, or you can remove it and hold it in your hand until the funeral service is over. And yes, make sure that your funeral wear is well washed and ironed before being worn.

Funeral Dress Code for Women
Funeral calls for a mourning time and so a decent dress code that comes with a dark and covered clothing with a comfort fitting is best suited for a woman. NEVER wear a low cut or a tight fitting outfit, which can evoke resentment in the atmosphere and embarrassment for you. Such outfits are absolutely contemptuous for the occasion. So make sure, you wear dress pants with a nice top of a subdued color, or a knee length dress (preferably longer), with the shoulders covered. If you are planning to wear any jewelry, limit your options. A string of pearls will best match your dark-colored or a fade colored outfit. Even other accessories like handbags and shoes should be simple. Make sure that your shoes do not expose your toes. Keep in mind, whatever dress you choose to wear, must be washed, cleaned and ironed. It should not have any stains. And if you are adorning a jacket, see to it, that it is of the same color as that of your skirt. Colors like black, navy blue and dark gray are best suited for such occasions.

What to Wear to a Jewish Funeral?
When going for a Jewish funeral, head coverings are a must, as they are a part of the Jewish funeral etiquette, especially if it is an orthodox Jewish funeral service. As per Jewish death rituals and traditions, men may wear yarmulkes and women may wear head scarfs. The most appropriate garb would be black or dark-colored. Limit use of jewelry and eye-catching handbags or shoes. For men, shoes, coat and belt should be black. Women must wear a decent attire which covers their shoulders well and is longer than the knee. Again, the shoes worn, should not expose toes. In a Jewish funeral, it is not recommended to bring funeral flowers. Also, do not greet the mourners as soon as you come. But if you want to make the person know, that you are there to comfort him, write your feelings out in the guest book.

A funeral is a time, when the best condolence, one could offer is through a proper funeral attire. Because, on that day and that time, no amount of words can console the deceased's family, no matter what. And when you go for a funeral, make sure, you reach on time and participate in the ritual. And the most important thing, maintain silence. After all, that is the only way you can show your concern to the deceased's family. Amen.