What to wear to a funeral

The choice of traditional funeral attire for adults often includes: 

• Smart black or dark suit 
• Knee length skirt or dress 
• Blazer or cardigan 
• Smart plain blouse or white long-sleeved shirt with a collar 
• Smart black shoes

Whilst a black suit isn’t always compulsory, muted and dark colours are generally considered appropriate. It is best to avoid wearing jeans, short-sleeved shirts and trainers.

Try and keep jewellery and accessories to a minimum and if you are attending a graveside service, make sure the footwear you have chosen is appropriate. In some religions and cultures, women may wear hats to funerals. 

Sometimes, a family may request that you wear a specific colour that the person who has died loved, or something deliberately bright and colourful.
 

Children should also dress smart to a funeral; dark and subdued colours are often preferred. Unless of course, as above, the family have requested specific colours or something bright.

You may need to dress slightly differently depending on the time of year in which the funeral is taking place. It’s important to choose clothes that you will be comfortable in as some funerals can last a few hours.

In the summer, you may wish to wear a smart skirt or dress if it is a hot day. A formal suit is still typically worn but you may be allowed to take your jacket off if you become uncomfortably hot. Dark colours are still appropriate and sunglasses are generally accepted outside of the service.

If the funeral is taking place on a cold day in the winter, it’s important to wear warm clothing and extra layers, especially if you are attending a graveside service. Dark coloured coats, jackets, scarves and gloves may be worn.

If you are attending a religious funeral, then you may need to be aware of the customs which are followed by that particular faith. If you are unsure of the etiquette and dress code, read our articles on religious funerals.

Unless the family of the deceased has stated otherwise, you should avoid wearing bright coloured or bold clothing to a funeral; if in doubt, choose something smart and neutral.

Do not wear any of the following to a funeral:

• Revealing or suggestive clothing
• Trainers or flip flops
• Printed t-shirts
• Jeans
• Caps
• Colourful ties
• Excessive amounts of jewellery

For further advice on what to expect at a funeral, read our guides on traditional funeral etiquette and what happens at a funeral service.

More help with attending a funeral.