What to wear to a funeral: simple rules for any service

What should you wear to a funeral? Plain, dark and covered. This will be right in most places, and it keeps attention on the day, not on you.

The rule

Dark colours, simple shapes, shoulders and knees covered, closed shoes.

• Dark suit or dark trousers with a collared shirt or plain top
• A dark dress or skirt that reaches the knee or lower
• A jacket or cardigan
• Shoes you can stand in

One reason this works

A funeral is about the family. Quiet clothes are respectful in nearly every tradition and do not need explaining.

One exception

Some families and faiths ask for specific colours. White is worn in some traditions, and bright colours are requested for some celebrations of life. Read the notice or ask someone close to the family. If the funeral is at a religious site, our guide to what to wear to religious sites when travelling shows how to cover up. If you are travelling for it, the business trip packing list shows how to fit one smart outfit into a small bag.