Dress code for funerals
Funeral dress code - the right clothes for the funeral service
Every life is a guest performance on earth that comes to an end one day. When a loved one from the family circle, a close friend or a long-time club colleague dies, the funeral is a sad occasion. Those present accompany the deceased with dignity and respect on their way to their final resting place. Plain black clothing is the outward sign of appreciation and sympathy.
The mourners attend the service and the subsequent walk to the cemetery quietly and calmly. In our culture, solemn, serious music accompanies the ceremony. Loud talking, children jumping around or dogs barking are only distracting on this occasion. It is different if a cheerful funeral was the last wish of the deceased – this should be taken into account. Even if a child is being buried, the parents sometimes want a different ceremony. In this case, the usual dress code for the funeral does not apply: instead of dark mourning clothes, ladies and gentlemen wear colorful clothes or jeans. The deceased’s favorite music is also played during the ceremony.
The dress code for the funeral
In the Christian faith, the color of mourning clothes is black. Therefore, the correct clothing for the funeral service is mandatory, at least for the closest relatives. Children attending the funeral are best dressed in muted clothing without prints or motifs.
The general attire for the funeral service should be as simple as possible, as the deceased is the sole focus of attention on this occasion. Your own ego stays at home on this sad day: don’t show your usual preferences in your choice of clothes today, show little skin.
If you are used to wearing a head covering, you should also follow the dress code for the funeral and focus strictly on simplicity. Inconspicuous hats are permitted for ladies and gentlemen. The funeral etiquette rules stipulate an elegant, black headscarf for women at the funeral. Sporty caps or hats are not appropriate at a funeral. During the funeral service, the gentleman removes his hat and the lady leaves her hat on her head.
Bright colors such as orange, red, neon green or pink are not suitable for clothing and accessories. The sporty checked jacket, the low-cut glitter top and the short floral summer dress are also immediately out of the question when choosing clothes.
Dress code for the funeral - ladies
Be sure to note the clothing requested on the funeral card. If nothing is noted in this regard, black or discreet clothing in dark blue or dark gray should be worn. The lady has various options to choose from. A simple costume or a simple dress with a jacket is appropriate. In cool weather, a formal trouser suit is the right choice. A combination of trousers and a blazer is also acceptable. The lady wears a high-necked plain-colored blouse and dark tights without seams or patterns. Your clothes should not be too tight, shoulders, arms and knees should be covered. If you are not sure whether hats will be worn at the funeral service, ask the relatives of the deceased. The handbag should be small and in a matching color. Shoes should be comfortable and only have a flat heel, as you will be standing for long periods and walking slowly at the funeral. If it rains, opt for a black umbrella. A raincoat doesn’t fit the bill, neither in a dark color nor in a traffic-safe color. Your hairstyle is simple and windproof. Inconspicuous jewelry is allowed; according to the dress code at the funeral, you can also do without jewelry altogether. You can shield your feelings from the other mourners by wearing simple sunglasses.
Dress code for the funeral - men
The same dress code applies for the gentleman as for the lady. The wishes of the deceased are decisive. If there is no mention of a special dress code on the funeral card, you are appropriately dressed in a simple black suit. Wear a white shirt with a black tie. Lace-up shoes and socks in black complete your mourning attire. If you are not wearing a suit, you can wear plain black, dark blue or dark gray trousers. You can also combine a dark jacket in a matching color with an unpatterned shirt. A black or anthracite coat is recommended for men in winter temperatures. A black umbrella protects you from the rain, the raincoat should stay in the wardrobe. A simple black hat is optional. If you feel uncomfortable with it, do not wear a head covering. Is a tuxedo appropriate for a funeral? No – the tuxedo is intended for festive occasions after 6 pm. At the funeral, the gentleman can wear a formal cut. This type of frock coat is worn for daytime occasions.
Going to the funeral in uniform
Sometimes the deceased wore uniform as a club member or at work. At the funeral service, his colleagues show their comradely appreciation for his commitment by wearing his uniform. The solidarity of the team is expressed one last time. These may be members of the police, the fire department, the armed forces or the shooting club.
Dress code for the funeral in summer
Warm temperatures can be a challenge at the funeral service, as the dress code is the same at any time of year. Closed collars, long pants and long sleeves can only be counteracted with modern mourning clothes made of light, breathable fabrics.
Black mourning clothes - where does this tradition come from?
In our circles, the correct dress code for a funeral requires black clothing for both men and women. You should also follow this dress code for accessories such as your handbag, stockings or gloves. The deliberate restraint with regard to fashion expresses sympathy visibly to others.
The achromatic color black is created by the absence of light. In our culture, it embodies the symbol of absolute emptiness, death and loss. According to the Christian church, the black costume is the counterbalance to light and redemption, which are represented by pure white.
The tradition of black mourning clothes originated in the late Middle Ages as a way of showing inner mourning to the outside world. We are familiar with customs and practices such as the year of mourning, in which a widow wears only black.
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