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A Guide to Funeral Suits

Choosing the right suit to wear to a funeral can feel like a big decision. You want to show up in something you’re comfortable wearing but also want to be respectful of the family’s wishes and traditions. The good news is that choosing a funeral suit does not have to be complicated and can be done in just a few steps.

Choosing a color

While a black suit is often suggested for a funeral, it certainly isn’t the only color one could wear when attending such an event. Oftentimes people can get stuck on choosing appropriate attire and selecting the “right” color for their suit. Can you wear a blue suit to a funeral? What about a grey suit at a funeral? If you’re looking for alternative funeral suit colors, here are some options broken down by shade:

• Black shades: If you don’t want to wear a pure black suit but are still looking for something in that shade, consider wearing a dark gray or light gray suit at a funeral.
• Blue shades: If you’re not a fan of shades of black, wearing blue and navy suits to a funeral is considered generally appropriate attire.
• Brown shades: Another alternative is brown or different shades of brown.

Choosing a vendor

When searching for funeral attire, you can find suitable suits at various locations, both online and in hysical stores. Here are some options to consider when looking for funeral suits for men:

• Department stores: Visit reputable department stores like Macy's, Nordstrom, or Bloomingdale's, where you can find a wide selection of formal suits.
• Men's clothing retailers: Explore stores that specialize in men's clothing, such as Men's Wearhouse, Jos. A. Bank, or Brooks Brothers.
• Online retailers: Popular online retailers like Amazon, ASOS, and Men's Warehouse offer a large range of suit options.
• Custom tailoring: Consider having a suit tailored to your exact specifications at a local tailor or custom clothing shop for a personalized fit and style.
• Secondhand shops: Thrift stores or consignment shops can be great places to find affordable, gently used suits that are appropriate for a funeral.
• Rental services: In some cases, you may choose to rent a funeral suit from companies like The Black Tux or Men's Wearhouse.
• Family and friends: You can also inquire within your social circle as friends or family members may have a suitable suit you can borrow for the occasion.

These options offer a range of choices to help you find the appropriate funeral attire to pay your respects in a dignified and respectful manner.

General guidelines to picking the right funeral attire

Funeral suit color is a crucial aspect of choosing attire for a funeral. While the specific dress code can vary based on family, cultural and religious norms, there are some universal guidelines to consider:

• Dress conservatively: Funeral suits are typically conservative and modest in style. Try to avoid flashy or attention-grabbing choices, unless it’s specifically requested.
• Choose darker colors: Traditionally, dark colors like black, charcoal gray, navy blue, and dark brown are appropriate for funeral outfit choices. These colors often convey a sense of solemnity and respect.
• Avoid bright patterns and logos: Funerals are typically not the time for bold patterns or clothing with prominent logos. Try to stick to solid colors or subtle, understated patterns if necessary.
• Pay attention to grooming: It’s a good idea to pay attention to personal grooming, including clean and polished shoes, neatly groomed hair, and minimal use of accessories.

Cultural and Religious Considerations

It's important to be aware of specific cultural and religious guidelines for funeral attire. Some cultures and religions may have distinct customs and expectations, such as wearing specific colors or types of clothing, so you should consider these customs when selecting your funeral suit color.

Selecting the right funeral suit in an appropriate funeral suit color is an essential aspect of showing respect and empathy during a difficult time. By following the guidelines mentioned, you can ensure that your attire is appropriate and that you are supporting those who are mourning with compassion and dignity.

Alternative men's funeral attire (no suits)

If wearing a black suit for a funeral doesn’t fit your fancy, you have many alternatives. The outfits below would be acceptable at many funerals – if you have any concerns or are worried your attire isn’t okay to wear to the funeral, you can always ask friends, family, and funeral home staff for guidance. Here are some alternative outfit options you can wear to a funeral that aren’t suits:

1. Fitted sweater and dark trousers: Depending on the trousers, a fitted sweater with a button down shirt is a wonderful option to wear to a funeral.
2. Blazer and jeans: Similar to suits, choosing a blazer and jeans can give you a more casual (but still professional) appearance.
3. Darker polo and khakis: A darker polo paired with khakis is a simple alternative to a funeral suit.
4. Dark jeans or trousers and fitted shirt: Another alternative to a suit is choosing dark fitted jeans and pairing them with a fitted top.

These outfits are all alternatives that aren’t suits, but still offer a look that is respectful and well-groomed.

Alternative options for women (no pantsuits)

These options are great for women who aren’t tied to the idea of wearing a suit to a funeral, but who still want to dress in appropriate attire. Depending on the season, some of these outfits may be better suited than others.

1. Black skinny jeans and a sweater top: This outfit can be accented by some modest jewelry or neutral colored heels.
2. Dark gray dress with accented flats: This outfit gives a more casual look and has less layers, making it an excellent choice for most seasons as it can easily be accented by a coat, if needed.
3. Grey top with black flare trousers: This outfit is a bit of a departure from all black attire, but still comes across as appropriate and respectful to the family in mourning.
4. Dark blue dress: As a flattering alternative to the traditional women’s funeral pantsuit, consider a shoulderless dress in darker colors.
5. Mix and match: This outfit is great if you have a few different styles or items you’d like to incorporate. Consider matching a skirt, blouse, and blazer together to have a unique look that remains respectful. This is an excellent choice for a summer funeral as well.

Do you have to wear a suit to a funeral?

While black suits for funerals are common at American funerals, especially for men, they certainly are not the only type of outfit you can wear to a funeral. Funeral attire can vary widely, and it's helpful to consider the wishes of the deceased's family, the cultural and religious context, and the formality of the event. It's advisable to adhere to any specific dress code requests from the family and err on the side of being slightly overdressed rather than underdressed to ensure you pay your respects in a considerate and dignified manner. If the family requests specific attire or colors be worn, it’s best to abide by those requests and wear an outfit that embraces the request of the deceased’s family.

At the end of the day, you can generally feel confident in your choice of attire as long as it’s clean, well-fitting, darker in color and semi-formal. Ask friends and family for advice, consult different articles for inspiration, and lean towards conservative dressing options when given the choice.