This article is about what is often deemed appropriate to wear to a funeral. This article is provided by Sydney Coffins. Sydney Coffins is a memorial product and funeral provider in Australia, specialising in unique and personalised coffins, caskets and funerals.

For many decades the colour black was the worn by most people to funerals. Society nowadays accepts other colours, however, religion, culture and tradition still play a large role in determining what to wear.

The clothing tones of what should be worn to a funeral largely depend on the culture, religion, traditions of the deceased and the close family members. Funerals are usually somber occasions and therefore the colour black has often been worn to symbolise the emotion of grief and sadness.

Clothing worn to a funeral should be carefully thought and consideration should be made in order to display respect and honor to the deceased. Clothing and colours worn should not shock the audience or attract too much attention. Clothing should not take the focus away from the funeral.

Choosing the colour black is always acceptable, and if you would like to wear other colours then consider opting for conservative pieces of clothing. A good guide to a conservation style is similar to what you would typically wear to a job interview.

Appropriate Outfits for Men to Wear To A Funeral

DO NOT WEAR  Jeans, sneakers, short sleeve shirts, baseball caps and overly casual clothing.

Style – Conservative
Top – Long-sleeved collared shirt
Shoes – Dress shoes, loafers
Accessories – Tie & belt

Appropriate Outfits for Women to Wear To A Funeral

DO NOT WEAR revealing clothing (mini skirt), jeans, sneakers, and overly casual clothing.

Style – Conservative pantsuit or skirt suit
Outfit – Blouse, sweater, pantsuit or skirt suit
Shoes – Heels, flats
Accessories – Hats

Religion, Tradition And Culture Influence On What To Wear At A Funeral

The colour black is still worn in religious traditions such as Christianity, Islam and Judaism. In other religions, other traditional clothing may be required to be worn. Depending on the religion there may also be behavioral guidelines that need to be adhered to. Sometimes there may be different traditions for different genders. If you are unsure of religious, traditional and cultural etiquette at a funeral you are best to contact your local religious representative to outline funeral guidelines for mourners.