What to wear to a memorial service
Dark or muted colours in a smart, understated style: navy, charcoal, grey or black, with a jacket or cardigan and quiet closed shoes. Follow the family’s wishes if they ask for colour or a particular dress.
Three outfits that work
Navy midi dress, grey cardigan
- navy midi dress
- grey cardigan
- black closed flats
- small black bag
A plain navy dress and a cardigan are respectful and gentle, and easy to sit in during a long service.
Charcoal blazer, navy trousers
- charcoal blazer
- navy trousers
- white shirt
- dark brown leather shoes
A blazer and trousers in quiet colours are smart without feeling heavy, and the tie is optional.
Long-sleeved dress, scarf, coat
- slate long-sleeved dress
- soft beige scarf
- dark coat
- black flats
Sleeves and a long hem keep you covered, and a scarf and coat add comfort and a calm look.
By weather
| Hot22° and up | Light dark fabric and a cardigan for a cool hall. |
|---|---|
| Mild10° to 21° | The outfit as planned with a light coat. |
| ColdBelow 10° | A warm coat, a scarf and closed shoes with grip. |
Do and don’t
- Choose muted, dark colours and simple shapes
- Cover shoulders and knees
- Follow any request on the notice or from the family
- Wear shoes you can stand in
- Bring tissues
- Wear bright or festive colours unless requested
- Wear logos, slogans or sportswear
- Wear strong perfume or loud jewellery
- Wear shoes that click on stone floors
Check the night before
- Check the notice for dress requests
- Check the weather and the route
- Try on the outfit
- Prepare tissues, a card or flowers
- Plan to arrive early
Questions people ask
Do I have to wear black?
No. Navy, grey, dark green or charcoal are all right. Choose calm colours.
Is it less formal than a funeral?
It is often a little less formal, but the tone is the same. Dress smart and quiet.
What if the family asks for colour?
Follow their wish and choose a soft, muted version of the colour.
Can I wear jeans?
Not usually. Dark trousers or a skirt are safer unless the family says casual is fine.
Pick Memorial service in FeinLens and see what you already own
FeinLens builds complete outfits for this occasion from photos of your own clothes, dressed for the forecast where you’ll be.
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