The Dos And Don'ts Of Funeral Wear
Because funerals are not incredibly common events, some people might have anxiety over knowing what's acceptable to wear as a guest and what's not. While black and formal is commonly understood, what does that really mean? To help ease your concerns, here are 20 things you absolutely shouldn't show up to a funeral in if you don't want to get some nasty looks.
1. Mini Skirts
Funerals are meant to be very respectful, formal, and modest events that require guests to wear attire that match the atmosphere. Unfortunately, mini skirts can make you look out of place, almost as if you dressed up for a nice dinner rather than a somber gathering. It doesn't help if you feel uncomfortable while wearing it either.
2. Happy & Vibrant Colors
While black is the most traditional color to wear at funerals, any dark, neutral color can also do. But what you have to be extra careful to avoid is any color that emits happiness or brightness. Remember, you're here to pay your respects and honor someone's life, not stand out among the crowd. Read the room!
3. Revealing Tops
There's always a time and place for certain clothes, and when you're attending a funeral, formal and proper is the only route to go. It's about taking attention away from yourself and shining the spotlight on whoever has passed so everyone can respect their memory. Which is why revealing tops are never a good pick.
4. Sheer Clothes
Wearing sheer clothing to a funeral can be awfully inappropriate, especially if it's overly revealing and is done in a way to make you stand out. There's a reason modest clothing in dark or black colors is what's expected of guests!
5. Jeans
Jeans are simply far too casual for an event as serious as a funeral. If how you dress says a lot about you, then you should be wearing clothes that mirror your consideration to the matter at hand. This isn't a trip to the mall or a visit to the aquarium, and your clothes need to reflect that.
6. Baseball Caps
While certain hats may be acceptable at a funeral, baseball caps are the jeans of pants - they're far too casual. It doesn't matter if it's black in color, leave it at home!
7. Flip Flops
As far as footwear goes, it doesn't get any more disrespectful than showing up to a funeral in flip flops. If it's not allowed in professional settings or even fine-dining restaurants, what makes you think a sad and somber event like a funeral is okay? Anything open-toed is considered very rude and suggests a casual, laid-back approach as a guest that won't be appreciated.
8. Flashy Jewelry
While simple pieces of jewelry are totally respectful, anything that becomes too distracting is starting to step out of line. Whether it's a massive chain, a giant diamond, or brightly-colored gems, a funeral doesn't warrant extravagant jewelry that loves showing off. Always take a more minimalistic approach to your outfit.
9. Shorts
Shorts scream "fun in the sun" not "I'm at a funeral!" If you really don't want to give people the wrong impression, you absolutely shouldn't show up in shorts, even if it's the middle of summer. This article of clothing just really gives off a fun and casual vibe that's exactly what you don't want when going to such a formal event.
10. Crocs
We understand that Crocs are beloved for being exceptionally comfortable shoes, but please leave them at home and opt for more respectful footwear if attending a wedding. Nothing is more relaxed than a pair of Crocs, and you will definitely offend someone by showing up in these.
11. Sundresses
Modest sundresses might seem like an acceptable thing to wear to a funeral, but it really depends on the cut and color of the dress. Most sundresses give off a very fun, summery feel that would be completely inappropriate at a serious event like this. Maybe save your summer clothes for the beach?
12. Animal Prints
People only wear animal prints if they want to stand out in a crowd, which is exactly what you shouldn't be doing at a funeral. If the goal is to avoid wearing anything flashy or loud, animal prints would definitely sit at the top of that list.
13. Ripped Clothing
The entire purpose of ripped clothing is to give off a laid-back effect, which is why they're absolutely not suitable for a funeral. Not only does it show off unnecessary skin, it looks as if you paid little to no care for the event. It immediately sends a clear message that you didn't put much thought into how serious and important the funeral is.
14. Graphic Tees
Graphic tees often carry a little too much personality to make them acceptable pieces of clothing at an event so serious. They're incredibly informal and are likely to be paired with some jeans which makes the entire outfit far too casual and far too disrespectful.
15. Sneakers
Yes, even sneakers can be given the side eye if worn to a funeral. Often coming in multiple bright colors, it's even worse when they're plastered with inappropriate logos. Always go for something a bit more formal like dress shoes or other comfortable options that come in dark, single colors.
Lefteris kallergis on Unsplash
16. Joggers
Remember, you're here to pay your respects, not go for a run! Loose pants like joggers are another no-go, no matter how comfortable they might be. They look exactly how they feel: like you're too relaxed.
17. Sweatpants
Unfortunately, showing up to a funeral in sweatpants will immediately make it seem like you got up from your couch and drove over with no thought whatsoever. It makes you come across as careless, inconsiderate, and even rude! These comfy pants are meant for home, not a funeral.
18. Crop Tops
Revealing and far too casual, everything about crop tops just screams inappropriate. And no, just because you wear one in black doesn't make it better! In other words, you should never be attending a formal event with your belly button showing.
19. Huge Purses
While it's more of an unspoken rule, huge purses, bags, or totes can really get in the way and be distracting for others. The last thing you want is to lug around something so big you're whacking everyone in the way! Definitely opt for smaller, more compact bags you can keep close to your body.
20. Tiny Dresses
Mini skirts are one thing, tiny dresses are another. You should never show up in a skin-tight, awfully short dress that has you uncomfortable and squirming during the entire funeral. If you're not feeling at your best, others will notice it too, taking away from the true purpose of the event.
