What To Wear To A Memorial Service Male

What to wear to a memorial service and funeral outfit used to be so incredibly simple and straight forward: wear black. However, things have changed, and nowadays, black no longer as important of a requirement. One particular funeral might require bright colors, while another may require traditional Scottish kilts. Confusing, right?

So how exactly do you figure out what to wear to such a formal event, you're wondering? Well, you're in luck because we've put together for you a handy little guide with the 5 main things to keep in mind when dressing for a funeral or a memorial service.

what to wear to a memorial service

Is Black Imperative?

In most western cultures, black has always been the color of mourning, but nowadays, not everyone respects that rule necessarily. So ask yourself, has the family mentioned a dress code including the color black ? The family may have certain wished for how they would like attendees to dress, and if they do you ought to respect them, even if that means wearing black or bright colors to honor the departed's bright life. Your very first concern should be respecting the wishes of the departed and those of their family.

If you're a family member of the deceased, keep in mind that you set the tone, and so you can base your outfit choice on what would've been the deceased's wishes. However, if you aren't a close family member, then avoid wearing something that could possibly be offensive, and err on the more conventional, conservative side.

what to wear to a casual memorial service picture

Think Of The Weather

When choosing an outfit, it's just as important to think of the weather. Why you might be thinking : The graveyard service.

You don't want to be in very light clothing and then be soaking wet at the graveyard if it's raining. In order to avoid awkward situations like that, take a look at the weather forecast. What's suitable will be contingent upon the current weather conditions along with time of the year.

All of this may seem like a serious exaggeration, but I once made the mistake of wearing high heels to a graveside service while it was raining, the heels sunk completely into the ground and were completely filthy and covered in mud; so believe me, you never want to end up in that situation.

Is A Specific Religious Tradition Being Observed?

One of the most important things to keep in mind when attending and dressing for a funeral is religious traditions. It's absolutely imperative to be completely respectful in that regard. Anything less than your full attention and diligence can be considered bad manners.

So if you are going to soon be attending a religious memorial service or funeral, figure out whether there are some requirements regarding the dress code. For instance, in some cases, women can be asked to wear skirts and dresses, in other cases men and women may be asked to dress very conservatively and maybe even cover their heads.

Christian funerals are quite different from Jewish funerals, or say Muslim funerals. Observing religious customs funeral, and dressing in proper attire is a way to show your admiration and respect to the deceased person and their religion, even if it's not your own.

How About Children?

If you're planning on bringing kids to the service, you needn't worry much. Any clothes that may be considered appropriate for church or a wedding will do. The only to maybe avoid are overly casual clothes. Neon yellow and pinks are maybe not a great idea.

Is It A Funeral Or A Memorial Service ?

Memorial services are generally less formal compared to funerals. For memorial services, unless given specific instructions, stick to the general business casual look.

Suggestions For Women :

what do you wear to a memorial service picture

For attending a funeral, consider wearing something that's is formal, but definitely avoid anything too revealing. Stick with dark muted colors and stay away from what can draw a lot of attention (e.g., bright colors, patterns), because remember this occasion is not about you.

If after all these tips, you're still unsure, here are some suggestions.

Clothes

A pantsuit or skirt suit
A Shirt and dress trousers (can include a blouse )
A black dress (can add a coat )
Shirt and skirt (possibly with sweater)

Accessories

Gloves
A scarf
Hats or other head coverings

Footwear

Pumps, flats, or boots
No tennis shoes or flip flops

Jewelry

Bracelets are always a tasteful option
Steer clear of big statement pieces that draw attention

Suggestions For Men

The easiest and most straightforward choice when it comes to dressing for a funeral for men is a suit. You could however get away with just wearing pants plus a button-down shirt.

Clothing

A dark high-end suit is foolproof, paired with a white dress shirt
Dress pants and collared dress shirt (can add a sweater )
A tie is tasteful but optional
Formal dress slacks along with a collared shirt or a Polo Shirt

Footwear

Loafers, dress shoes, or boots
No tennis shoes or flip flops

The man takeaway here is that is the family's failed to specify what to wear, err on the side of caution. Opt for black or dark colored business casual attire.