Hopefully you won’t be attending funerals regularly, so you might not be sure what to wear when you do go to one. If you’re planning a funeral, you might be tempted to set a dress code, or encourage guests to wear what makes them feel comfortable. You might be going to a non-traditional funeral for a tradition outside the traditional dark clothes and Christian ceremonies in England.
Most people generally go for dark, smart clothes when attending funerals, typically black suits, smart dresses and smart shoes. Making sure that your clothes are clean, well-ironed and well-fitted is generally a good idea whatever you’re doing, and shows respect to the deceased in this particular instance. For male-presenting outfits, you can’t go wrong with a black suit and tie and smart matching shoes. Female-presenting outfits should be black or dark-coloured dressers or suits, smart shoes and a jacket. Don’t go over-the-top with your clothing choices – subdued and sombre is the order of the day, and turning up looking like you’re from the Addams Family is inappropriate. Revealing clothing should be avoided, especially for stricter religious ceremonies. At Muslim funerals only the family and close friends of the person who’s passed away may wear black, but subdued colours (grey, dark blue and brown) are all acceptable. Women should wear long skirts and headscarfs, men may wear jackets and ties or go without. (Check with your hosts on the strictness of the ceremony as these requirements may not be necessary for less traditional funerals). For Hindu funerals wear white, casual clothing, and avoid clothes that are too ‘flashy’ or black.
Whatever you wear to a funeral, be sure to bear the wishes and feelings of the family and close friends of the deceased in mind, and remember that you’re there to celebrate the deceased’s life, not draw attention or disrespect them.
For funeral planning and advice in East Sussex and across the Home Counties, visit Lifetimetrustees.com