What Clothes to Wear to a Funeral
What should you wear to a traditional funeral in the UK?
In England and Wales, traditional funeral attire is typically black or dark, muted colours and conservative in style. Black remains the most common symbol of mourning, but dark grey, navy, or charcoal are also acceptable as long as the outfit is respectful and understated.
Families may sometimes request a specific dress code. In some cases, mourners are encouraged to avoid black altogether to reflect the personality or wishes of the deceased. Always follow any guidance provided by the family or funeral director.
It’s also worth considering practicality. Churches and crematoriums can be cold, and you may spend time standing outside, so bringing a smart coat is sensible.
If you are appointed as a pallbearer, the family may specify what you should wear. Pallbearers are often dressed uniformly, and the family may provide or request a particular suit.
What should you avoid wearing at a funeral?
Funeral clothing should never distract from the purpose of the day: remembering the deceased and supporting their loved ones.
You should generally avoid:
Clothing that is too short, tight, or revealing
Bright or bold colours unless specifically requested
Casual clothing such as trainers, ripped jeans, or slogan t-shirts
If you don’t feel comfortable wearing black, choose subtle, neutral tones instead. Footwear should also be practical — especially if attending a burial, where walking on grass is likely. Flats or low heels are often more suitable.
What is considered appropriate funeral attire?
Traditional funeral clothing in the UK usually includes:
Formal or semi-formal wear in black or muted colours
Smart black or dark shoes
A formal coat or jacket
Clean, comfortable, and well-fitting clothes
Think of funeral attire as similar to what you might wear to a formal event or job interview — respectful, smart, and understated.
What should women wear to a funeral?
Common options for women include:
A smart dress with a cardigan or jacket
Smart trousers with a blouse or top
A formal coat in cold weather
Modest footwear suitable for standing or walking
Clothing should be colour-appropriate and not overly revealing. Jewellery is best kept minimal and understated. Comfort is important, especially during longer services.
What should men wear to a funeral?
For men, appropriate funeral attire often includes:
A black or dark suit
A plain, dark tie
Smart black or dark shoes
A full suit is not always compulsory unless requested by the family, but dressing too casually should be avoided. The key is showing respect and effort through smart, considered clothing.
What is a funeral dress code?
Many families choose to set a specific funeral dress code. This might be shared through:
Funeral invitations
Online memorial or support hubs
Death notices
The funeral director
Some funerals request colourful clothing to celebrate the life of the deceased, while others — particularly children’s funerals — may ask attendees to wear a favourite colour.
It’s best for families to be clear. Vague guidance such as “smart casual” can be open to interpretation, whereas specific instructions help guests feel confident they’ve dressed appropriately.
Your funeral director can also help arrange ceremonies that reflect personal wishes. If you want your own funeral preferences — including dress code — to be followed, it’s a good idea to record these wishes clearly and let loved ones know.
Thinking ahead about your funeral wishes can make things much easier for your loved ones. From dress codes to personal touches, including your preferences in your will ensures they’re clearly understood and respected.
If you’d like a free, confidential conversation about writing or updating your will and recording your wishes for the future, our team is here to help. Get in touch today.
