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A funeral or memorial service is a time for friends and family to come together to show their appreciation and respect for a loved one. They’re typically somber gatherings, and there’s a specific etiquette to follow with regard to how you should behave and dress. Although wearing black has traditionally been the main point of guidance when it comes to funeral attire, most modern services are a little more relaxed in their standards. Here, the experienced funeral directors at Jacqueline M. Ryan Home for Funerals in Keansburg, NJ, offer some guidance on this topic.

General Tips

In general, choosing black and dark colors is still a safe bet. Clothing should be clean, conservative, and free from rips, frays, or fading. Because you’re paying your respects to the deceased and their family, you should dress in a respectful manner that doesn’t draw too much attention to yourself. However, there are exceptions to these rules. In some cases, the person who has passed might have requested a more festive atmosphere for their memorial service, in which case brighter colors or patterns might be a better choice. If you’re unsure of what to wear, check with a family member or the funeral home to find out the level of formality.

Advice for Men 

memorial serviceDark suits are the best choice for a formal service. For more relaxed settings, slacks paired with a buttoned-down, collared shirt (with or without a jacket) works well. Avoid jeans, sneakers, T-shirts, and any clothing that looks too casual or athletic. 

Advice for Women

Good choices for women include dresses or blouses paired with a skirt or pressed slacks. Prints are fine, as long as they’re not too loud or colorful. Dresses and skirts should be knee length or lower. Avoid sleeveless tops or dresses unless paired with a cardigan or blazer; the exception is an outdoor memorial service in the summer. Finish the look with a pair of pumps, flats, or other sensible shoes. High heels should be avoided, especially if the funeral includes a graveside ceremony, where heels could get stuck in the soft grass.

Knowing what to wear to a funeral or memorial service can be overwhelming if you haven’t attended one before. If you need help learning about proper funeral etiquette, turn to the compassionate professionals at Jacqueline M. Ryan Home for Funerals. Their team is dedicated to helping you with all aspects of the planning process. To find out more about their services, call (732) 787-1177 today or visit their website.

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