A funeral is a solemn occasion that requires appropriate attire to show respect for the deceased and their family. Knowing what to wear to a funeral for men can be a difficult decision, but it is important to dress conservatively and in darker colors to reflect the somber tone of the event.
Are you unsure of what to wear to a funeral as a man? Check out this Youtube video: “What Men Wear To A Funeral – YouTube” for some helpful tips and ideas.
This video covers everything from attire to accessories, and is a must-watch for anyone attending a funeral soon. Don’t miss out on this valuable information!
The Basics
Attending a funeral or memorial service requires dressing appropriately in conservative, respectful clothing. For men, this means wearing dark suits or dress pants with a collared shirt.
It is important to avoid athletic wear, shorts or any flashy or brightly colored clothing.
- Conservative ties should be worn without any novel designs and black leather shoes are the ideal choice for footwear.
- While black or darker colors are most traditional, it is also important to consider the culture and preferences of the family in mourning when selecting your funeral attire.
Alternatives to Suits
If you do not own a suit or do not feel comfortable wearing one, there are several options available:
- Dress pants and a sports coat provide a more relaxed yet still formal option.
- A dress shirt, tie, and dress pants (khakis or chinos are fine) offer a professional yet conservative appearance.
- A sweater and dress pants provide a clean and modest look.
- A polo and khakis offer a more casual and subdued style.
Remember that the key is to dress modestly and conservatively as a sign of respect for the deceased and their family. While these alternative options may not be the traditional funeral attire, they can still provide a tasteful and appropriate outfit for the occasion.
Accessories
When attending a funeral or memorial service, it is important to consider your accessories to complete your outfit. Here are some accessories to consider:
- Belts and suspenders can add a finishing touch to your outfit and help keep your pants fitted properly.
- Dress socks that are dark in color and match your shoes or pants can create a cohesive look.
- A proper watch with a leather, metal or black band can add sophistication to your outfit. Avoid wearing digital or sports watches.
- A lapel pin or pocket square can be considered as an optional accessory, adding a subtle touch of personal style.
Color Coordination
When attending a funeral, it is essential to dress in a way that shows respect to the person you are remembering, and choosing the appropriate colors plays a significant role in this. It’s best to stick to dark or neutral colors such as black, navy, gray, or dark green.
It is advisable to avoid bright or bold colors and patterns, as this can be seen as disrespectful. However, some cultures have specific funeral colors, so it’s best to consider the family’s cultural or religious background when selecting your outfit.
What NOT to Wear
Attending a funeral is a solemn occasion, so it is essential to dress appropriately. Here are some common clothing items that should be avoided:
- Athletic or workout clothing – It is not appropriate to wear gym clothes or any sports-related outfit to a funeral. Opt for more formal and conservative attire.
- Denim or faded jeans – Jeans are generally too casual to wear to funerals, even if they are dark in color. Choose dress pants instead.
- Cargo shorts or pants – Avoid wearing cargo shorts or pants because they can appear too casual for such an event.
- Logo or graphic t-shirts – Wearing shirts with slogans, images or graphics is not appropriate for a funeral. Instead, choose plain shirts with subdued colors.
- Bright or bold colors – It is best to avoid bright or bold-colored clothing. Stick to neutral, muted or darker colors such as black, gray, navy blue, or dark green.
Remember, when attending a funeral, it is best to dress in a way that shows respect for the deceased and their family. Keep your attire respectful and conservative, and avoid anything flashy, casual or inappropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you wear a hat to a funeral?
Is it okay to wear a suit that's not black to a funeral?
What if the funeral is in warm weather?
What if you don't have dress shoes?
Examples from Popular Culture
When it comes to determining what to wear to a funeral for men, it can be helpful to look at examples from popular culture. Classic movie funerals, such as those in “The Godfather,” often feature men dressed in black suits and ties.
Celebrity funerals, such as the recent funeral of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, also tend to showcase darker and more conservative attire. By looking at these examples, men can get a sense of how to dress respectfully and appropriately for a funeral or memorial service.
Conclusion
Dressing appropriately for a funeral is a sign of respect for the person whose life is being honored. Avoid wearing flashy, brightly colored clothing or casual clothes such as athletic wear or shorts.
Opt for dark-colored, more conservative clothes such as suits, pants, dresses, jackets, sweaters, and flat shoes. Accessorize with hats, scarves, neckerchiefs, chunky rings, or oversized earrings that are proportional to your outfit.
Remember that the most important thing is to show respect for the deceased and your clothing should reflect that.
