What to Wear at a Funeral or Visitation: A Quick Guide


What to Wear at a Funeral or Visitation: A Quick Guide

Deciding what to wear to a funeral or visitation can feel overwhelming, especially during an emotional time. While every service is different, a few simple guidelines can help you choose something appropriate, comfortable, and respectful.

Keep It Respectful

Dark colours such as black, navy, or charcoal are the traditional choice. If you don’t own black clothing, neutral tones like grey, beige, or dark blue are also suitable. The key is to avoid anything that stands out or draws attention away from the purpose of the gathering.

Aim for Modesty

Think of clothing you might wear to a job interview or formal occasion. Outfits should be clean, neat, and not overly casual. Avoid items that are flashy, revealing, or distracting.

Comfort Counts

Services often involve sitting, standing, or walking for extended periods. Choose clothing and shoes that you can comfortably wear for several hours.

When in Doubt, Keep It Simple

Some families may request guests wear specific colours or styles to honour their loved one. Unless told otherwise, stick to simple, understated choices.




Practical Options

  • Dark or neutral dress pants with a plain shirt, blouse, or sweater
  • A simple dress or skirt with modest length
  • A blazer, cardigan, or jacket if you want to look more formal
  • Closed-toe shoes in a dark or neutral colour

Children

Children don’t need formal attire, but neat, tidy, and modest clothing is best. Darker or neutral colours are preferred if available.

Final Thoughts

What you wear matters less than the fact that you are present to show support and respect. By keeping your outfit modest, comfortable, and neutral in color, you’ll be dressed appropriately for the occasion.


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What is a Funeral?

Image
  What Is a Funeral? A funeral is more than just a ceremony - it’s a meaningful way to honour a life, bring people together, and begin the healing process after a loss. At its core, a funeral is a ritual that allows family and friends to say goodbye, celebrate the life that was lived, and offer comfort to one another. It’s a tradition found in every culture, religion, and corner of the world. And though practices may differ, the purpose remains the same: to remember, to grieve, and to support. Funeral Myths A Funeral has to involve visitation and a formal ceremony Funerals are different than a Celebration of Life or Wake Funerals have to be at a church or funeral home Funeral Homes don't do Basic Cremations or Celebrations of Life Funerals come in many forms, especially in today's world. They come in different names such as "Celebration of Life", "Wake", "Memorial Service". Even going out as a family for dinner at their favourite restaurant to ce...
Read more

Supporting a Grieving Person

Image
Simple Ways to Support Someone Who Is Grieving When someone we care about loses a loved one, it’s natural to want to help. But it’s also natural to feel unsure — “What do I say?” or “What if I say the wrong thing?” The truth is, you don’t have to have the perfect words or big gestures. Small, steady acts of kindness can make all the difference for someone in mourning. Here are a few simple, thoughtful ways you can support a grieving friend, neighbour, or family member — not just in the first days, but in the weeks and months that follow. ---  1. Show Up - Gently •Attend the visitation or funeral if possible. •Send a handwritten note or even a text message: “I’m thinking of you. No need to reply, just know I’m here.” •Leave a meal on their doorstep with a note, or send a gift card. •Don’t wait for them to ask for help. Most grieving people won’t. ---  2. Keep Checking In Grief doesn’t disappear after the funeral — in fact, that’s often when it hits hardest. •Set a calendar remi...
Read more

What now?

Image
What Comes After: Helpful Things to Do Once the Funeral Is Over When the last guest has gone home and the flowers begin to wilt, a quiet often settles in — not just in the house, but in the heart. After weeks (sometimes months) of planning, coordinating, and holding it all together, the question many people ask themselves is: “Now what?” As funeral professionals, we’ve walked with families through those early stages of grief, and one thing we hear time and time again is that the silence after the funeral can be one of the hardest parts. So today, we want to gently share some ideas — not about “moving on,” but about moving through . These small, helpful actions can offer purpose and comfort in the days and weeks following a loss. 1. Start a Memory Project Grief has a way of bubbling up when we least expect it. Channeling that emotion into something tangible can be healing. Consider: Making a scrapbook or digital photo album Writing a few stories about your loved one Creati...
Read more