Best Men’s Funeral Attire Ideas

Funerals are inevitable, as we have to attend them at some point in our lives. These are social obligations and a vital part of the grieving process. We must dress modestly while going to a funeral; adherence to the dress code is essential.

Men’s funeral attire is a crucial choice when deciding what to wear while attending a funeral. Your dress speaks for you; thus, dressing according to the occasion will leave a lasting impression. 

Likewise, it would help if you kept personal liking and style in the equation while visiting a funeral service. Generally, families decide on the dress code; thus, you must follow it to match funeral outfit etiquette.

Therefore, we will discuss men’s funeral attire through this article and guide you to dress respectfully, appropriately, and modestly. 

Things to Consider

Several factors affect men’s funeral attire. Although you may wish to have a one-size-fits-all guide, the points below will help you decide how to dress for a funeral ceremony. 

• Time of the Year

The weather is one of the most significant things which affect our clothing. You will not want to wear a three-piece suit in summer and get yourself hot. Likewise, a short sleeve is not an option for winter. 

Therefore, bringing seasonality to your attire is necessary for comfort. However, keeping it within reason is also mandatory. Likewise, shorts are not appropriate, although slacks with short sleeves are generally advisable during winter. We recommend wearing these for graveside service.

Therefore, keeping the season in mind can help you select your funeral attire. Keeping it simple and reasonable according to the weather is highly recommended.

• The Deceased

The departed soul is the focal point for men’s funeral attire as you are going to pay honor to the legacy of the deceased. Your level of affection for the deceased will dictate your attire choices for the funeral.

Since attire reflects the level of respect and understanding of the occasion, giving a thought to the deceased will influence dressing. For instance, the funeral of any close family member or associate will require you to wear more formal attire compared to others.

Likewise, for friends and colleagues, you can wear a less formal dress. However, be sure to have formal or semi-formal attire, and never put on anything casual. 

• The Family

As with weddings, certain families have their expectations and dress code. Therefore, consider consulting close family members to enquire about any special instructions concerning attire. It is better to check for such necessities instead of getting annoyed afterward.

For instance, some families prefer a complete formal dress code for all visitors. On the other hand, others may accept a casual code; therefore, talking and getting a sense of the preferred dress code will help you decide your attire for the funeral. 

Funeral Attire Choices

 Since you have established the requirements of the event, you are all set to make a selection of your attire. There are several choices to choose from; therefore, make sure to abide by the dress code as outlined by the family. 

So, here are critical points of consideration for selecting an appropriate funeral attire.

Outwear 

There is no need to worry about buying a new outerwear if you already have one. Generally, wearing a new suit to a funeral is not advisable for men. Therefore, try unlocking your cupboard and find a modest suit. 

Moreover, you can select an elegant suit jacket or a sports jacket. These types of suits will make you appear sophisticated and sober, which is perfect for a funeral.

• Two-piece Suit

A two-piece suit is one of the best choices for a funeral as it serves a conservative and dignified appearance. Moreover, they help you stay humble without highlighting you to the limelight. 

Generally, dark-shaded colors are recommended for funerals. Colors like black or charcoal suit is the right choice for men’s funeral attire.

In addition, a black tie and shirt are preferred choices for funerals. Moreover, you can choose any color, but make sure it is primarily black. However, if the family has described any other color, then you must follow the same dress code. 

Furthermore, if you do not have a black suit, alternatives include neutral colors like grey and navy. However, it is crucial to consult the family to check for the dress code; if uncertain, selecting black attire is a safe option.

• Dress in a Shirt and Tie

Since a two-piece is not possible to wear in summer, you can still have a formal look by wearing a dress shirt and tie. Moreover, sports coats make another excellent option during summertime.

You can consider wearing a black shirt and tie or any other darker color like navy blue or grey.

• Dress Pants

The trousers you wear must comply with fully formal, no shorts or jeans. Dress pants are the best option; however, refined chinos are also acceptable. 

When it comes to color, black is top of the list. However, dark grey or navy blue pants can also serve the purpose. Conversely, never wear vibrantly hued pants since the purpose is to stay low and pay tribute to the departed soul. Thus, vivid colors are discouraged as they draw attention.

• Dress Shirt, Tie, and Sweater

If a funeral is happening in winter, you need an extra layer of protection through a sweater. Like other outerwear, choosing a sweater that is modest in color and resembles your shirt would be perfect.

Moreover, you can select a neck or crew neck sweater, as both are fine. 

• Shoes

Any formal shoes will serve the funeral purpose. You can choose a pair of oxfords as these are classy and modest. However, derby, wingtips, and brogues are also good fit for men planning to visit a funeral.

• Accessories

Although accessories are generally not recommended for a funeral, you can wear cufflinks, watches, or pocket squares. Likewise, wear a simple belt matching the color of your shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I never wear to a funeral?

The dresses below are strictly prohibited from being worn during a funeral.

• Jeans
• Tees
• Sneakers
• Trendy wears
• Tacky items

What should guys wear to a funeral?

A colored suit like black, navy, charcoal, or dark grey is the perfect fit for men’s funeral attire. However, if the family has maintained another dress code, always adhere to it.

Can I wear a blazer and slack to a funeral?

Yes! Blazers and slacks are formal dresses, and you can wear them while attending a funeral.

Parting Thoughts

Clothing plays a significant part in paying tribute to the departed souls. While it is tough to decide what to wear during a funeral, we suggest you select any dark-colored outerwear. However, if the family has recommended a dress code with a specific color, then wear the one that fulfills their requirements.

Moreover, you can wear a dark-colored shirt and tie for attending a funeral in the summer. Contrarily, a sweater or coat is a preferred option for winter. Likewise, dress shoes, especially oxfords, are tailor-made for attending funerals.

However, never wear jeans, tees, sneakers, and other tacky clothes to a funeral. You can add modest accessories like a watch or cufflinks, which are not prohibited.

We hope you are now ready to choose men’s funeral attire. Please let us have your say on the topic in the comments section.