‘I have a great Uncle’s funeral next week and have no idea what to wear – we have to wear black, but is it weird to wear a dress? And do my shoes have to be smart?!’
Leah from St Albans
I’m so sorry, Leah. Funerals are so tough, and while you’re trying your best to support your family and friends and get through the day in one piece, the absolute last thing you want on your mind is what to wear. It’s for that reason your outfit needs to be as stress-free as possible.
But funerals can be tricky style territory. Black clothing is the traditional dress code, and in the UK funerals are typically formal. But whether there’s lots of walking from the service to the wake, temperamental weather to contend with, or a different dress code altogether, there are a few fashion dilemmas anyone in this position would rather not have to tackle.
I’d advise always playing it safe. This isn’t the occasion you’ll want to stand out in, particularly if it’s a traditional all-black service, so go for something timeless to err on the respectful side.
We posed the question to our ever-helpful followers on Instagram, and it was a unanimous vote in favour of classics. ‘I think a dress is fine, as long as it’s simple. And wear whatever shoes you feel comfortable in.’
Modesty is key, too, especially if the service will be conducted at a religious place. Another follower noted that dresses were fine, but advised a midi over a short number. However, another comment noted that ‘short dresses can be ok as long as there are no cut outs, sheerness and the major areas are covered,’ so if it’s your only option, ensure you’re wearing opaque black tights and the rest of your outfit is smart and modest.
A too-short dress or low-cut blouse will be out of place, but tailored trousers, a knit and smart boots are perfectly acceptable and will work for the full day’s events.
If you stick to the staples, you might already have lots that you already own that’ll work together, so you won’t have to find the brain space to shop for something new. It’s also worth remembering that if you wear the correct colour and are warm and comfortable, absolutely no one will be judging your outfit. Here’s what ticks every box:
What should I wear to a funeral?
Black funeral dresses
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‘I wore a long sleeve lace dress with tights, court heels and a blazer,’ noted one follower, and that’s an excellent outfit starting point. If you’re opting for a dress, especially during ceremonies in the winter, layers are a must, so always pair with tights or long boots.
Material-wise, knits are a wise idea for now as traditional funerals require lots of standing outdoors. Otherwise, a jersey or crepe black dress with minimal bells and whistles is a safe and respectable choice. Team it with a smart coat and sensible shoes.
Black funeral coats
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A black blazer or black wool coat are two of the safest cover-ups to wear on the day. You’ll be warm, feel polished and won’t have to worry about looking out of place since they’re both formal items.
A plain style in a classic shape will work with skirts, dresses and trousers and won’t date. These are our 6 of the best around right now.
Black funeral trousers and skirts
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Separates require a little more thought, so you’d be forgiven for avoiding them altogether on a day where there are bigger things to focus on. But if you’re not keen on dresses, or they’re not practical for the service planned, trousers and skirts are your next option.
Go for midi lengths or longer for skirts: A crepe or silk midi skirt works with knee-high boots and a smart jumper or blazer without looking out of place.
Be sure your trousers aren’t longer than the heel of your shoe. Typically, there can be lots of walking at funerals, and scruffy trouser hems aren’t ideal.
Black funeral footwear
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This sounds a little contradictory, but even though you want to appear polished and respectful, think twice about wearing your favourite pair of black shoes on the day. The aforementioned note on walking means that if it’s muddy, raining or snowing, your shoes won’t stay slick for long. Opt for a leather wipe-clean pair with a sturdy sole, and if you’re going for heels, wear a block-heeled style in case grass is involved.
Black funeral tops
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If you’re planning to wear separates, matching your tops and bottoms is required, though don’t let it take up a lot of time. Make it as simple as looking in your wardrobe for a modest, warm top in the appropriate shade. The chances are you’ll be wearing a coat a lot of the time, and if you’re not, ensure your top ticks the boxes and you won’t have to worry about it.
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