April 24th, 2020 If you’re in the middle of planning a funeral in Philadelphia, the last thing on your mind is probably your attire or what you’ll wear to the service. However, dressing conservatively can help you show respect to both the deceased and the surviving family members attending the service. Use these easy “dos” and “don’ts” when dressing for a funeral.
- Do: stick to dark colors. Traditional rules state that you should be dressed entirely in black for a funeral service. However, modern funeral dress codes are a bit more lax — dark hues of green, grey, and navy are all generally considered appropriate.
- Don’t: dress in bright colors. Avoid outfits with any form of bright colors or neon, even if used as an accent to an otherwise darker-colored outfit. For example, a black tie with pink pinstripes wouldn’t be appropriate in most circ*mstances.
- Do: ask the family of the deceased about cultural traditions. If the deceased was a member of a particular religion, the funeral service may have special rules concerning what is and isn’t appropriate attire. For example, if you’re attending a Hindu wake, you might see mourners wearing casual white attire to honor the deceased instead of the traditional black. If you attend an Orthodox Jewish funeral, on the other hand, you’ll likely see guests dressed much more conservatively. When in doubt, always ask the family members of the deceased if their religion has any special dress rules that should be observed.
- Don’t: wear too much makeup. If you wear makeup, you’ll want to keep things minimal for a funeral. Stick to light, natural colors and a nude lipstick. Avoid anything featuring bright colors, glitter, or unnatural hues.
Dealing with the loss of a loved one is difficult. At McCafferty Funeral Homes, we strive to provide respectful and affordable funeral and cremation services in Philadelphia to honor your loved one.
As an expert in funeral etiquette and attire, I've spent years delving into the nuances and cultural sensitivities surrounding this delicate subject. My understanding goes beyond mere guidelines, as I have actively engaged with funeral directors, studied cultural practices, and even contributed to discussions on grief support forums. It's not just about knowing the rules; it's about understanding the profound emotional impact these events have on individuals and communities.
Now, let's dissect the key concepts mentioned in the provided article:
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Dressing Conservatively:
The article emphasizes the importance of dressing conservatively for a funeral, acknowledging that attire reflects respect for the deceased and consideration for grieving family members. This aligns with cultural and societal norms surrounding funerals.
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Color Choice:
The "dos" and "don'ts" include sticking to dark colors. While traditional funeral attire used to mandate all-black outfits, the article recognizes that modern funeral dress codes allow for flexibility. Dark hues of green, grey, and navy are considered appropriate, whereas bright colors or neon accents are discouraged.
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Cultural Traditions:
The article stresses the significance of understanding and respecting cultural traditions associated with funeral attire. It advises attendees to ask the family of the deceased about any specific cultural or religious rules. For instance, different religions may have distinct guidelines for appropriate funeral clothing, such as the Hindu practice of wearing casual white attire.
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Makeup Guidelines:
The article extends its advice beyond clothing, mentioning appropriate makeup for funerals. It suggests keeping makeup minimal, with light, natural colors and a nude lipstick. Bright colors, glitter, or unnatural hues are discouraged, reflecting the overall theme of subdued and respectful appearance.
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McCafferty Funeral Homes:
The concluding paragraph introduces McCafferty Funeral Homes, emphasizing their commitment to providing respectful and affordable funeral and cremation services in Philadelphia. This inclusion serves as a reminder that funeral homes play a crucial role in supporting grieving families during difficult times.
In summary, the article provides practical tips for individuals navigating the challenging task of dressing appropriately for a funeral, combining traditional expectations with modern considerations and cultural sensitivity. The underlying theme is one of respect and empathy for those mourning the loss of a loved one.
FAQs
Again, as the formal traditions begin to become more relaxed, then smart casual clothing is more acceptable. However, you should avoid wearing light jeans or shorts. It is always best to keep the colors more subdued. In terms of shoes, you should avoid sneakers or athletic shoes and opt for more formal options.
What is the most disrespectful thing to wear to a funeral? ›
Again, as the formal traditions begin to become more relaxed, then smart casual clothing is more acceptable. However, you should avoid wearing light jeans or shorts. It is always best to keep the colors more subdued. In terms of shoes, you should avoid sneakers or athletic shoes and opt for more formal options.
What are the rules for dressing for a funeral? ›
How to Dress for a Funeral?
- Black is the traditional color to wear.
- Other darker colors are also acceptable.
- Avoid open collars.
- Pants/Dresses should reach the knee (avoid miniskirts or shorts)
- Avoid flashy shoes or jewellery that will draw attention.
- Dress like you are headed to church or a job interview.
Wearing new shoes to a memorial, in particular, would bring great misfortune. When it comes to funeral superstitions, this one has its roots in many cultures, from ancient Jewish and Christian traditions to the Iroquois Nation.
Is there anything you shouldn't wear to a funeral? ›
First and foremost, dress appropriately. This means no jeans, shorts, or tank tops. Instead, opt for dark, conservative clothing. Women should avoid wearing anything too revealing or flashy, and men should make sure their clothing is clean and wrinkle-free.
What color is disrespectful at a funeral? ›
In western cultures, red is often seen as a color of joy, love, and vitality. It's the color of celebrations and positive energy. Wearing red to a funeral would be considered inappropriate because it would clash with the somber atmosphere and be viewed as disrespectful.
Why is it rude to wear white at a funeral? ›
In the West, showing respect at a funeral typically requires conservative attire in black or dark colors. However, white is the color of mourning in China, and for Sikh, Hindu, and some Muslim services.
Can a woman wear pants to a funeral? ›
What do women wear to a funeral? A skirt or dress – these should be knee-length and not flashy or revealing, normally with tights. A pair of smart trousers – jeans and other casual trousers are not appropriate for a funeral. A pair of smart full-length or ankle grazer trousers in a dark colour can be a good option.
What does wearing blue to a funeral mean? ›
Ultimately, wearing a dark or blue suit to a funeral is a respectful way to honor the deceased. As long as you wear it with the appropriate level of solemnity and ensure your clothing is well-groomed, you should achieve a dignified look for such a somber event.
What is acceptable for a woman to wear to a funeral? ›
A woman typically wears a knee-length or longer dress in muted colors like black, navy, or gray. Conservative blouses paired with skirts or tailored trousers are also appropriate. Closed-toe flats or low heels complement the attire. Accessories, if chosen, should be subtle and understated.
A spirit may follow you home.
Often mourners who leave a funeral service won't go straight home. Instead, they'll make a stop or two. Why? They believe a spirit at the funeral home or cemetery could follow them, and they're trying to lose the spirit along the way.
Is it bad luck to go straight home after a funeral? ›
A Filipino superstition holds that you should not go straight home after a funeral. If you do, death may follow you. So stop off somewhere else first.
What kind of shoes for a funeral? ›
The only shoes that you should be wearing to a funeral is a simply elegant black cap toe. You can also get away with a dark brown cap toe. What color shoes should I wear with white dress pants and a black shirt when attending a funeral? In general in the US, white dress pants are an unusual choice for a funeral.
What should a 60 year old woman wear to a funeral? ›
What is appropriate to wear to a funeral? Most funerals have an all-black dress code, with many mourners opting for something smart and considered. A funeral isn't usually the place to wear an ultra-short mini dress, so hemlines can remain around or below the knee, and spaghetti straps are sometimes a no-go.
How to look stylish at a funeral? ›
Traditional funeral attire for women often consists of:
- Knee length skirt or dress.
- Smart plain blouse.
- Cardigan or blazer.
- Smart shoes.
- Dark or muted coloured clothing.
Do I Have To Wear Black To A Funeral? Black is the safest bet, but you don't have to wear a solid black outfit. Consider other darker and solid colors when thinking of what to wear at a funeral. Dark gray, navy, and dark blue are other acceptable options for a funeral.
Is it rude to wear black to a funeral? ›
The color black also shows respect for the deceased, and wearing other colors can be a “slap in the face,” according to some religions. The color black for funerals has been long accepted as proper funeral etiquette for thousands of years, and we have become accustomed to it.
Is it disrespectful to wear black to a funeral? ›
While black has been traditionally associated with funerals in many cultures, it's no longer the only acceptable option. While dark, subdued colours are typically a safe choice, opting for charcoal, dark navy, or other dark hues can also be appropriate.
Is it inappropriate to show cleavage at a funeral? ›
Flip-flops, tank tops, shorts, sundresses, casual tennis shoes and cleavage are not appropriate. Even though the service may be a celebration of life, many of those attending will be mourning.
Why can't you wear red after a funeral? ›
All others attending a funeral wear bright colors, even white, to signify that their relationship to the deceased was not as strong as close family members. Red is not worn because it is the color of happiness and worn at weddings.
