Charlie Bell
Figuring out what to wear to a funeral can feel challenging. It's already an overwhelming and emotional time, so the last thing you need is added stress over your outfit. We've asked the experts for the dos and don'ts to ensure your attire is most appropriate.
The best approach is to keep it simple and to opt for classic pieces that are smart and practical, and that you can re-wear at a later date. When selecting what to wear to a funeral, start by looking through your existing capsule wardrobe staples first, as you will most likely already own something that meets the mark. Steer clear of statement-making clothing or anything too flamboyant. Staples like a tailored blazer, a midi dress, or tailored trousers that can be teamed up with a lightweight blouse or shirt are always a strong choice.
Black is the obvious choice and most associated with a funeral. But even if you don't usually wear this colour, having just one or two emergency pieces in your wardrobe, such as trousers or a blazer, can be teamed with subtle, neutral hues to give you a perfectly suitable outfit. And don't forget to opt for something you can wear again in the future.
What to wear to a funeral - 7 outfit ideas
Not sure where to start? We have rounded up some fail-safe options to wear to a funeral that will look respectful while being easy to wear. Whether you want a simple midi dress, a flattering jumpsuit, or an A-line skirt, we have picked the best options below.
Whether you wear it buttoned up or slung over your shoulders, a simple blazer will add a sharp feel to other pieces
1. Blazer
Invest in a well-cut black blazer, and it will more than earn its keep in your wardrobe. Funerals require a smart outfit, and the tailored shape of a blazer more than fits the bill. Great for days when you need an extra layer but the sun is still out. It is a good way to temper a dress with a little colour in it too (like a subtle floral print), making sure your overall look is still overwhelmingly black. You'll find great blazers from all the best British clothing brands, but we have taken the hassle out of your search with the below buys.
This structured black blazer is ideal for added polish. The longer length also means this design works particularly well with tailored trousers, as well as delivering sharpness to skirt outfits or dresses.
This boucle style would work layered over a black dress. With its polished yet relaxed silhouette, this piece is perfect for comfortable all-day wear. Wear again teamed with some denim barrel leg jeans and trainers.
This textured blazer has a sleek collarless neckline and a structured design. Wear with a dress or trousers for a funeral, before teaming with your best wide-leg jeans at a later date.
2. Midi dress
A chic and simple longer length dress will work well for the warmer weather.
A fashion fail-safe for a funeral is a simple black midi dress that will feel both smart and modest. As well as being easy to wear, the longer hemline of a midi dress will reduce the chance of a wardrobe malfunction and will save any worries about separates riding up or becoming untucked. When it comes to what to wear to a summer funeral, the best summer dresses in black, (and midi length) are an excellent choice.
With short sleeves, this dress is stylish without being revealing. The A-line silhouette is universally flattering and the t-shirt top can be smartened up with a blazer.
This tailored utility dress is an absolute classic that feels smart whilst being feminine, and the belted detail adds the chicest finishing touch. Pair with slingback heels in spring or summer, or the best knee-high boots for autumn or winter funerals.
You can't go wrong with a twisted-waist dress. The gathered detailing is flattering across a midriff for an hourglass finish. While this one is fully appropriate for a funeral, it will also be great for special occasions. We love the stretchy but breathable cotton material.
3. Skirt
A skirt can be buddied up with a wide range of tops to create a multitude of different looks.
A midi or long skirt has all the benefits of a dress when it comes to dressing for a funeral, with the option to mix and match with different tops. A shirt or wrap-over blazer makes for a smart top half, while a jumper will give a slightly more relaxed feel. There are plenty of choices when it comes to the shape of the skirt you choose, too.
An A-line will flare out from the waist and skim over hips and midriffs. A pencil skirt shape, however, is more form-fitting, but still just as smart. Just make sure you’re comfortable and can sit and stand with ease.
It's always a good idea to invest in something you'll wear again, and a black satin skirt is one of the most versatile pieces out there. With a slip-on design, this skirt can be adjusted for the ideal fit. Look at our guide on how to style a satin slip skirt for more guidance.
A simple and figure-flattering design means that this fit and flare skirt will work for years to come and is brilliantly versatile. It will look on-trend with a cotton t-shirt and brown ballet flats, or take it to the office with a crisp shirt and court shoes.
The pencil skirt silhouette is a classic design that never fails. This length will look chic with a simple black blouse while paying your respects, and then will pair well with your best white trainers for more laid-back occasions.
4. Jumpsuit
An all-in-one is very versatile and can be matched with endless accessories for a different feel each time you wear it.
A jumpsuit takes all the hard work out of creating an outfit, as you'll be ready to leave the house with just one do-it-all piece. Depending on the kind of service you are attending, a funeral may involve a mixture of standing, sitting, and kneeling. There may also be elderly relatives or children who need assistance. In these scenarios, the all-in-one shape of a flattering jumpsuit has one up on the midi dress, reducing the risk of a hemline mishap.
This effortless jumpsuit is made from a textured cotton-blend seersucker and features voluminous wide legs, which work perfectly to keep you cool in the summer months. The sleeveless design means that it's ideal if you're attending a summer funeral and wondering what to wear in the heat, too. Check if the service you're attending has any shoulder covering requirements, as you could always add a blazer if need be.
This jumpsuit is both comfortable and smart. The drawstring design makes it adjustable and ideal for all-day wear. Simply pair with some smart black leather mules and add a lightweight cardigan if needed. With a small cap sleeve, it offers shoulder coverage, but still keeps your arms nice and cool. The ankle length hem is great for pairing with all kinds of footwear.
As well as flattering your shape in all the right places, this one piece is made of super soft organic cotton, which keeps you comfy and cool. Team with black pumps and a blazer for the funeral, and for weekend outings with chunky sandals and a raffia tote bag.
5. Tailored trousers & Shorts
Trousers can be worn with everything from a t-shirt to a pussybow blouse. Find your pair and we guarantee you'll be wearing them on repeat.
Feel more comfortable in trousers than a skirt? No problem. A smartly tailored pair of black trousers will work well for a funeral, teamed with a smart jacket or shirt, and can be worn again at a later date.
This being said, if you're attending a funeral in the summer months, some tailored shorts will equally do the trick. Look for breathable natural fabrics such as cotton or linen, as both will keep the heat to a minimum. Opt for longer thigh-high shorts for a smart occasion, such as Bermuda shorts or ankle-skimming cropped trouser styles.
The wide leg style gives these tailored trousers a modern feel. With long length, this style works hard to elongate the leg. Pair with a black blazer or with your favourite button-up shirt or a floaty blouse.
These longer length shorts work wonders as an alternative to smart tailored trousers in the warmer months. We'd recommend pairing these with a low block heel that will be comfy, a tucked-in blouse, and a leather belt.
These straight leg trousers are designed to fit well on hourglass figures. As well as sitting well on curvier bums and thighs, the waistband will snugly fit without any gaping. Tuck in a soft blue shirt and finish with loafers for work.
6. Shirts & Blouses
Funerals often mean moving between at least two different locations during the day, so layers are key to ensure you feel cool and comfortable in all scenarios. Consider lightweight blouses or button-up shirts, and opt for subtle detailing to elevate your look, including broderie or soft prints.
Whether you opt for a button-up shirt or puff-sleeve blouse, you can also rewear these staples and style them for smart work occasions, or weekend outings paired with your favourite denim barrel leg jeans.
The feminine silhouette and soft antique-looking lace material make this blouse a staple that you'll come back to all year round. Wear to a funeral paired with either some sleek black tailored trousers or a satin slip skirt.
This jacquard shirt is ideal for smart occasions. The subtle pattern adds texture to your look, whilst the classic button-up design feels smart and elevated. Tuck into trousers, shorts, or skirts.
With a chic sleeveless design, gathered shoulders, and a beautiful embroidered fabric, this blouse feels classic and feminine. Day-to-day, tuck it into indigo denim jeans and finish with your favourite ballet flats.
7. Smart Coat & Jackets
A classic black coat will instantly give your look a polished feel while keeping you snug on cooler days.
When it comes to what to wear to a funeral, we often put a lot of consideration into the main elements of our outfits, only to approach outerwear as an afterthought. And although in the warmer months you might not think of wearing a heavy winter coat, a lightweight layer might be a good idea in case the weather suddenly turns.
A black coat that ends just below the knee, or mid-calf, is the most timeless shape. Detailing like subtle embroidery, wide lapels, or a belted waist will add a point of difference. You also never know when you may need a smart coat, and it is guaranteed to come in handy on multiple occasions.
Every wardrobe should have one of the best trench coats, and this M&S find is one of the very best on the high street. The cotton fabric keeps it breathable while adding extra warmth to your outfit.
This short jacket is the smartest addition to your capsule wardrobe. Easily worn all year round, this lightweight layer won't overheat you in the warmer months but will keep the chill out when the temperatures drop.
The collarless design of this thigh-skimming coat gives it a feminine shape that feels nautical-inspired. It will sit well over an equally simple shift dress or skirt combo for a smart feel, and then get extra wear out of it by wearing it with casual weekend outfits.
FAQs
What to wear to a funeral in summer?
In the warmer season, you'll want to opt for lightweight fabrics and breathable silhouettes. Consider a black midi dress paired with open-toe heeled sandals. If you prefer tailoring, longline Bermuda shorts styled with a soft blouse or cotton shirt will give you a smart yet considerate look. Bermuda shorts are long enough to still feel appropriate for the occasion, yet a cooler option than heavy, tailored trousers. Remember, these are tailored and smart, don't wear anything that feels remotely beachy.
Before opting for sleeveless tops or dresses, check if there are any rules you need to follow, such as covering shoulders or arms. If this is the case opt for natural breathable fabrics and floatier sleeves for a breezy but appropriate finish.
What to consider when choosing an outfit for a funeral
What you decide to wear funeral is all down to your style, but there are some practical things to think about beforehand. We would always suggest taking a jacket or blazer with you in case the weather turns.
When it comes to accessories, look for a bag that is easy to carry while being roomy enough to carry tissues for any tears, as well as makeup for later touch-ups, and all your daily essentials.
Understated and simple jewellery will finish your look perfectly too – look for plainer stud earrings or a simple pearly necklace that will have a classic and chic feel without being over the top.
What shoes should you wear to a funeral?
We asked Deputy Fashion Editor, Charlie Bell, for tips on finding the perfect footnote for a funeral, and she gave us some excellent advice –
“When choosing what shoes to wear to a funeral, comfort is key as you're likely to be on your feet all day. Keep it simple and classic, a mule or court shoe with a low block or kitten heel. Avoid colour - unless specifically requested - and stick to neutrals such as black, cream or tan, something understated that doesn't command attention. It's fine to wear flats such as a sleek loafer or delicate ballet pump, but best to steer clear of trainers or anything too casual."
What should you avoid wearing to a funeral?
Dressing smartly is a sign of respect at a funeral, so avoid anything that could be considered too casual. We are firm believers in wearing whatever you want to wear, but for a funeral, it might be best to dodge anything too revealing or shorter skirt lengths, and stick to more reserved styles that will have a respectful and considered feel. We would suggest leaving jeans, trainers, and anything very casual at home and opting for smarter basics. Unless the family has requested otherwise, we would always suggest avoiding bright colours too – plain and simple black pieces are always the safest bet.
What to wear to a 'no black allowed' funeral
It is becoming more and more common for people to request a colourful funeral dress code. A lovely way to bring a positive atmosphere to the ceremony, you may find a lot of invites specifically ask that you do not wear black. But don't panic, choosing a colourful funeral outfit is much simpler than it seems.
We recommend sticking to the timeless funeral outfit silhouettes outlined above (blazer, dress, skirt, jumpsuit, trousers, knitwear, or coat), but ask yourself what colour suits you, and what do I feel good in? As long as you're wearing a smart silhouette, the hue you go for isn't too important. Take inspiration from the shapes and cuts in the products we've selected and have a look for similar styles in different shades.
However, we would recommend steering clear of any neon colours, very bold patterns, or graphic prints. This is because they will make your outfit feel significantly less formal, and it is still important to dress respectfully, even if not in all black. If you don't feel comfortable wearing a bright colour or you tend to stick to neutrals, opt for a colour like camel or cream. Whilst still minimalist and easy to style, these shades are also warm and make for a smart and versatile alternative to black.
Why do we wear black to a funeral?
Ever wondered why we wear black to funerals? Mourners have worn the dark hue for funerals as far back as the Roman times, but it became much more popular after Queen Victoria wore only black after her husband, Prince Albert passed away. The Royal chose to wear black every day for over 40 years, so it quickly became the go-to for people wanting to pay their respects.
Charlie is the Deputy Fashion Editor at Future plc across multiple women’s magazines including Woman & Home, Woman and Woman's Own.She bagged her first magazine job in 2009 and has previously written for titles including Stylist, Closer and Dare. Over the years Charlie has embraced anything that was thrown at her from styling celebrities to testing out the best jeans on the high street to writing about must-have beauty buys.With a weakness for a printed midi dress, Charlie is on a mission to shop more sustainably and loves finding new ethical brands and second-hand buys.
