The Comforting Words Website Advises What Not to Wear to a Funeral

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How to Say It When You Don't Know What to Say: Illness & Death

Funerals are solemn occasions and a time to follow rules of protocol

Vienna, VA (Vocus) August 3, 2010

In these casual times, when there appears to be no dress code or any appropriate dress standard for different occasions, it can be very confusing when faced with what to wear to a funeral. “Funerals are solemn occasions and a time to follow rules of protocol,” says Robbie Miller Kaplan, founder of the Comforting Words website. “It’s important to dress conservatively to show respect for the deceased and the bereaved.”

So what is the proper protocol for funeral attire? Funerals are ceremonies to honor, remember, and pay tribute to the deceased, so err on traditional formality for both men and women. But keep in mind that funeral etiquette differs among various religions and cultures. A helpful publication by Comforting Words website founder Robbie Miller Kaplan, “How To Say It® When You Don’t Know What To Say: The Right Words For Difficult Times: Illness & Death (2010)” provides the funeral and mourning customs of nine different faiths as well as practical advice on what to say and do after a death.

Kaplan offers suggestions on what not to wear as well as appropriate attire while paying respects at visitations, funerals, memorial services, and funeral receptions:

•     Avoid casual clothing and accessories and select something on the dressier side. No sneakers, flip flops, or too casual shoes.
•     Choose darker or muted colors, such as, grays, dark blues, or browns. Black is always appropriate.
•     Avoid prints, pastels, and bright colors.
•     Women can wear pants, skirts, blouses, jackets, sweaters, or dresses, opting for a pulled together and modest look.
•     Men can wear slacks, sport jackets, or suits, and appropriate footwear.
•     Avoid articles of clothing that are low cut, too short, sheer, too tight, glittery, or sparkling.
•     Opt for a non obtrusive look that doesn’t draw attention.
•     Funerals are not a time to be conspicuous; it’s a time to blend in with the other mourners.

About the Author
Robbie Miller Kaplan is an internationally recognized writer and speaker with an expertise in communications. She is the author of “How to Say It® When You Don’t Know What to Say: The Right Words for Difficult Times,” available in volumes on Illness & Death, Suicide, and Miscarriage and e-books on Death of a Child, Death of Stillborn and Newborn Baby, Pet Loss, Divorce, and Caregiver Responsibilities. Her blog “Making a Difference” and website are http://wordsthatcomfort.com.

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