Funerals are not the most cheerful occasions, but they are an important part of honoring the life and memory of a loved one. Whether you are attending a funeral as a family member, a friend, or a colleague, you want to show your respect and sympathy with your attire. But how do you dress for a funeral without looking boring, outdated, or inappropriate? How do you express your personality and style while still being respectful and solemn? In this article, we will share with you five styling tips that will help you elevate your funeral attire game and make an unforgettable tribute to the deceased.
1. Choose the right color
The most common color for funeral attire is black, which symbolizes mourning, grief, and respect. However, black is not the only option, and depending on the culture, the preference of the family, and the type of the funeral, you may choose other colors as well. For example, some cultures prefer white, which represents purity, peace, and rebirth. Some families may request a specific color that was the favorite of the deceased, or that reflects their personality or interests. Some funerals may be more casual or celebratory, and allow for more colorful or cheerful outfits.
The key is to choose a color that is appropriate for the occasion, and that does not draw attention away from the deceased or the family. Avoid bright, flashy, or neon colors, as well as prints or patterns that are too loud or busy. Opt for subdued, muted, or earthy tones, such as navy, gray, brown, burgundy, or green. You can also add some subtle color accents, such as a tie, a scarf, a brooch, or a flower, to break the monotony of a solid black outfit.
2. Choose the right fabric
The fabric of your funeral attire is another important factor to consider, as it can affect your comfort, your appearance, and your impression. You want to choose a fabric that is suitable for the season, the weather, and the location of the funeral. For example, if the funeral is in the summer, or in a warm or humid climate, you may want to avoid fabrics that are too heavy, thick, or synthetic, as they can make you sweat, itch, or wrinkle. Instead, opt for fabrics that are light, breathable, and natural, such as cotton, linen, or silk. If the funeral is in the winter, or in a cold or windy climate, you may want to avoid fabrics that are too thin, sheer, or delicate, as they can make you freeze, tear, or stain. Instead, opt for fabrics that are warm, cozy, and durable, such as wool, cashmere, or leather.
You also want to choose a fabric that is appropriate for the formality, the style, and the mood of the funeral. For example, if the funeral is traditional, formal, or religious, you may want to avoid fabrics that are too casual, sporty, or trendy, such as denim, corduroy, or nylon. Instead, opt for fabrics that are classic, elegant, and refined, such as tweed, velvet, or satin. If the funeral is modern, casual, or personal, you may want to avoid fabrics that are too stiff, shiny, or fancy, such as polyester, sequins, or lace. Instead, opt for fabrics that are soft, matte, and simple, such as jersey, flannel, or chambray.
3. Choose the right fit
The fit of your funeral attire is another crucial factor to consider, as it can affect your comfort, your appearance, and your impression. You want to choose a fit that is flattering, comfortable, and respectful. Avoid wearing anything that is too tight, too loose, too short, or too revealing, as it can make you look unprofessional, uncomfortable, or disrespectful. Instead, opt for a fit that is tailored, modest, and appropriate for your body type, your age, and your gender. For example, if you are a woman, you may want to choose a dress, a skirt, or a pantsuit that covers your shoulders, your cleavage, and your knees, and that accentuates your waist, your hips, and your legs. If you are a man, you may want to choose a suit, a blazer, or a sweater that fits your shoulders, your chest, and your arms, and that complements your trousers, your shirt, and your shoes.
You also want to choose a fit that is suitable for the occasion, the style, and the mood of the funeral. For example, if the funeral is traditional, formal, or religious, you may want to avoid wearing anything that is too casual, too trendy, or too quirky, such as jeans, t-shirts, or sneakers. Instead, opt for a fit that is classic, polished, and conservative, such as a suit, a dress, or a coat. If the funeral is modern, casual, or personal, you may want to avoid wearing anything that is too rigid, too dull, or too plain, such as a black suit, a white shirt, or a black dress. Instead, opt for a fit that is relaxed, stylish, and expressive, such as a cardigan, a blouse, or a jacket.
4. Choose the right accessories
The accessories of your funeral attire are another significant factor to consider, as they can add some personality, some flair, and some meaning to your outfit. You want to choose accessories that are tasteful, functional, and respectful. Avoid wearing anything that is too flashy, too noisy, or too distracting, such as large earrings, chunky necklaces, or colorful bracelets. Instead, opt for accessories that are small, simple, and subtle, such as studs, pearls, or rings. You can also add some accessories that are meaningful, sentimental, or symbolic, such as a brooch, a pin, or a pendant, that belonged to the deceased, that represent their hobbies, or that honor their memory.
You also want to choose accessories that are suitable for the occasion, the style, and the mood of the funeral. For example, if the funeral is traditional, formal, or religious, you may want to avoid wearing anything that is too casual, too fashionable, or too personal, such as sunglasses, hats, or scarves. Instead, opt for accessories that are classic, elegant, and respectful, such as gloves, umbrellas, or handkerchiefs. If the funeral is modern, casual, or personal, you may want to avoid wearing anything that is too formal, too boring, or too generic, such as ties, belts, or watches. Instead, opt for accessories that are fun, creative, and unique, such as socks, cufflinks, or badges.
5. Choose the right attitude
The attitude of your funeral attire is the final and most important factor to consider, as it can reflect your feelings, your thoughts, and your intentions. You want to choose an attitude that is sincere, compassionate, and respectful. Avoid wearing anything that is disrespectful, insensitive, or inappropriate, such as a smile, a joke, or a selfie. Instead, opt for an attitude that is solemn, empathetic, and supportive, such as a hug, a condolence, or a tribute. You can also choose an attitude that is personal, authentic, and memorable, such as a story, a poem, or a song, that expresses your emotions, your memories, or your gratitude.
You also want to choose an attitude that is suitable for the occasion, the style, and the mood of the funeral. For example, if the funeral is traditional, formal, or religious, you may want to avoid wearing anything that is too casual, too familiar, or too intimate, such as a nickname, a slang, or a kiss. Instead, opt for an attitude that is respectful, courteous, and polite, such as a handshake, a greeting, or a compliment. If the funeral is modern, casual, or personal, you may want to avoid wearing anything that is too formal, too distant, or too impersonal, such as a title, a formality, or a silence. Instead, opt for an attitude that is friendly, warm, and sincere, such as a smile, a hug, or a conversation.
Conclusion
Funerals are not easy, but they are an opportunity to celebrate the life and legacy of a loved one. By following these five styling tips, you can elevate your funeral attire game and make an unforgettable tribute to the deceased. You can choose the right color, the right fabric, the right fit, the right accessories, and the right attitude, that suit the occasion, the style, and the mood of the funeral. You can also express your personality, your style, and your feelings, while still being respectful, sympathetic, and supportive. Remember, the most important thing is not what you wear, but how you wear it, and how you honor the memory of the person you lost.
FAQ
Q: What should I wear to a funeral if I don’t have a black suit or dress?
A: You don’t have to wear black to a funeral, as long as you choose a color that is subdued, muted, or earthy, such as navy, gray, brown, burgundy, or green. You can also wear a suit or a dress that is mostly black, but has some subtle color accents, such as a tie, a scarf, a brooch, or a flower.
Q: What should I wear to a funeral if I don’t know the culture or the preferences of the family?
A: If you don’t know the culture or the preferences of the family, you can ask them directly, or ask someone who knows them well, such as a friend, a relative, or a colleague.
You can also do some research online, or look for clues in the funeral invitation, the obituary, or the social media of the deceased or the family. You can also follow the general rule of thumb, which is to dress modestly, conservatively, and respectfully, and to avoid anything that is too flashy, too casual, or too revealing.
Q: What should I wear to a funeral if I want to stand out or make a statement?
A: You should not wear anything to a funeral that is intended to stand out or make a statement, as it can be seen as disrespectful, rude, or insensitive. A funeral is not a place to show off your fashion sense, your political views, or your personal agenda. It is a place to show your respect, your sympathy, and your support for the deceased and the family. If you want to stand out or make a statement, you can do so in other ways, such as giving a heartfelt speech, writing a meaningful card, or making a generous donation.