To a funeral you usually wear sober, well-kept clothing. Black, charcoal and navy are common choices, unless the family asks for something else. Preferably keep the outfit calm and follow any wishes of the family. If the family has a special wish, follow it. The most important thing is that your clothing suits the character of the farewell.
What matters at a funeral
At a farewell, it is not about clothing but about being present. Even so, it helps to feel at ease in what you wear, so that you can keep your attention on the bereaved. If no dress code has been mentioned, a restrained outfit is usually appropriate. You do not need to buy anything new; it is about pieces you can already combine.
Customs differ. Sometimes a family asks for colour, sometimes for something other than black. Read the invitation or mourning card carefully and follow the wish if there is one. If nothing is mentioned, choose a restrained dark outfit.
For her
Dark trousers or a skirt with a blouse or fine-knit top is a simple option. Arabelli is a high-waist pleated trouser in black. Wear it with Josephine, a knitted polo with V-neck in black, made of 79.9% viscose, 20.1% polyamide. The V-neck and dark colour keep the combination simple. If you prefer a skirt, choose Rosa, a knee-length skirt in black, made of 95% polyester 5% elastane.
Is it cold? Add a dark cardigan or a coat. Keep jewellery minimal, such as a fine necklace or small earrings. Choose a bag without a prominent logo.
For him
For men, dark trousers with a white or light blue shirt is a classic choice. Hamilton is a shirt with an Italian collar in white, made of 100% cotton. Wear it with Frederick, a pleated trouser with a brushed inside in black. Over it, a dark jacket or Trenton, an open polo made of 100% merino wool in black, works well.
Whether a tie is appropriate depends on the family, location and formality. Above all, make sure your shoes are clean and well kept.
Colours in order of preference
| Colour | When | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Black | Default | The classic choice |
| Charcoal and navy | As an alternative | Slightly less severe |
| Dark grey | For daytime | Suits a lighter atmosphere |
| White or light blue | As a shirt or blouse | Only as a base, no pattern |
A short list for the morning
- Lay out your clothes the evening before. Iron only according to the care label.
- Check that there are no stains, bobbles or loose hems.
- Choose comfortable shoes: a funeral can be long, with a lot of standing and walking.
- Bring a coat or cardigan for the church or hall, which can be cold.
- Switch off your phone before you go in.
What you had better leave out
- bright colours and large prints, unless the family expressly asks for them;
- shiny or glittering fabrics and eye-catching jewellery;
- very sporty clothing, unless the family or setting allows for it;
- skirts that are too short, deep necklines or transparent fabric;
- strong perfume, especially in a small space.
What you say with clothing, and what you do not
Clothing does not speak, but it does give a message of attention. Well-kept clothing suits the formal and personal character of a funeral. That does not mean a strict suit, but clean, pressed and suitable. So check beforehand that your clothing is clean and tidy. Take the evening before to calmly check your clothes.
If you do not feel at ease in a dark outfit, wear a calm, muted shade that you know well. It is about respect, not perfection. If you are going to the family to offer condolences, the most important thing is that you are there.
If you speak or have a task
Are you helping to carry the coffin, reading something aloud or giving a speech? Then choose clothing that gives you freedom of movement and that stays in place when you stand, bend or lift. A jacket you can button, a shirt with a sturdy collar and shoes with a good sole give you support. Above all, choose clothing in which you can move and stand freely.
Children and young people
If you bring your children, choose simple, dark clothing without prints. Dark trousers or a skirt and a plain sweater or shirt are enough. Explain beforehand what they can expect, and make sure they wear comfortable shoes. The same goes for teenagers: let them join in the thinking and choose an outfit together in which they feel at ease.
The weather in spring
For a funeral with an outdoor moment, take the current weather forecast into account. Wear layers you can open, and choose a coat you can take off in the church or hall without your outfit underneath changing. Bring an umbrella if it rains. Also think about the part outside, at the cemetery, where the wind can pick up and the ground can be wet. Shoes with enough grip are practical then.
Materials and care
Above all, choose fabrics that sit comfortably and suit the formality. Read more about merino wool and washing instructions for good care. If you are looking for a complete outfit, you will find it in Signature Occasions for women and Signature Occasions for men.
Finally: go by what suits your own feelings. A funeral does not ask for a perfect outfit, but for attention. Choose clothing in which you can stand, sit and embrace, and let go of the rest.
Shop the look
Arabelli: high-waist pleated trousers, black
Josephine: knitted polo with V-neck, black
Rosa: knee-length skirt, black
Hamilton: shirt with Italian collar, white
Frederick: trousers with brushed inside, black
Trenton: open merino wool polo, black
Frequently asked questions
Do you have to wear black to a funeral?
Not required. Black is customary, but dark colours such as charcoal and navy are also appropriate. Follow the family's wish if one has been mentioned.
Can a woman wear trousers?
Yes. Dark trousers with pleats are just as appropriate as a skirt.
Does my shirt have to be buttoned up?
A shirt with a neat collar is usually appropriate. Whether a tie is needed depends on the setting.
Can I return clothing?
Yes. Check the current return conditions on the returns page.
