When it comes to attending a sombre event, selecting the appropriate clothing for a funeral can be a culmination of tradition, respect, and the family's wishes.
So what should men wear to a funeral? Men should wear a black or dark suit with a white or muted shirt, conservative tie, and dress shoes to a funeral. This attire reflects respect and solemnity appropriate for the occasion.
In this blog, you'll find out not only the unspoken rules of funeral fashion for males but also how to navigate this challenging etiquette minefield with sensitivity and class.
Discover how we at Tapered Menswear provides the perfect solution to this problem, with our range of fitted shirts for men that ensure you pay your respects in the most fitting manner.
How Should A Man Dress For A Funeral?
Attending a funeral calls for you to show respect and sincerity in your choice of clothing.
Usually, this means wearing a suit or formal shirt and trousers. Black is often the preferred choice, but other dark tones such as navy or charcoal can work, depending on request of the family.
T-shirts, distressed jeans, or other forms of casual wear aren't considered proper funeral attire for men. Instead, choose a crisp, well-fitted shirt.
The reason I say fitted is because it needs to look neat and tidy. An ill fitting shirt will completely throw off your outfit and make you look like you're not putting in effort.
Your overall objective is to show empathy and respect through an outfit that is well fitted, and neutral.
Dressing appropriately is a tribute to the deceased and offers comfort to those commemorating their life.
Do I Need To Wear A Suit To A Funeral?
At a funeral or wake, the expectation of wearing a men's funeral suit may seem daunting, particularly if you don't have one. It's important to remember that while a suit is a traditional choice, it is not always a compulsory.
If you find yourself without a classic suit, fear not, I'm here to help! You have alternatives that still adhere to the respectful nature the event demands.
Choose a dark blazer paired with matching trousers—can be a suitable compromise.
This ensemble with a subdued tie and polished dress shoes can almost emulate the aura of a full suit.
Or simply a black fitted shirt from here at at Tapered with a pair of fitted trousers is equally appropriate.
The essence of appropriate funeral attire is to show respect and contemplation. This isn't exclusively tied to a traditional suit.
Make sure each article of clothing is clean, well-fitting, and avoid flamboyance.
What If I Don't Have A Black Suit For A Funeral?
There are alternatives to the traditional black suit for such occasions if you dont own one. A suit in a darker shade like charcoal or dark navy offers an alternative to a funeral.
Just make sure you check this colour is appropriate first. Wearing a suit jacket paired with matching dress trousers also ticks the formal box.
In scenarios where a suit isn't an option, smart layering can be your friend. Consider men's outerwear for funerals like a dark blazer or sports coat.
Paired with well-fitting dress pants and or dark chinos. Regardless of the colours you choose, the aesthetics of your outfit should be conservative and respectful.
If a suit jacket or blazer isn't available, then a formal shirt with trousers is also usually sufficient if you don't not own a suit.
Last but not least, it's essential that your clothes are well-groomed and fit impeccably. This contributes to a smart overall look that respects the occasion.
Do Men Have To Wear All Black To A Funeral?
Black isn't necessarily mandatory for a funeral. This tradition has shifted over time. The colour black does symbolise mourning and tradition.
But the modern men's funeral outfit guidelines have broadened the spectrum of acceptable attire. With the family favouring the deceased's personality as opposed to tradition.
Nowadays other colours include dark shades that are equally respectful and appropriate.
When you're selecting clothing for such a sensitive event, it is important to consider the family's preferences.
While black remains a classic and safe choice, navy, charcoal, or dark grey suits are now widely acknowledged as suitable alternatives.
Just make sure to check if your colour choice is acceptable.
What Not To Wear To A Funeral?
Off the bat, set aside casual wear, such as jeans and t-shirts. This could be misconstrued as a lack of respect in funeral clothing.
Instead, opt for dark dress pants which present a polished appearance over casual trousers like jeans or chinos.
Although our black chinos do remain a suitable alternative to black formal trousers.
While your choice of attire may seem a trivial, what you wear to a funeral can speak volumes about your esteem for the deceased and their loved ones.
What Colours Not To Wear To A Funeral?
When you're paying your final respects, it's imperative to consider the nuances of men's funeral fashion etiquette.
Dressing appropriately means knowing which colours to avoid at funerals. It's not just about selecting somber attire; certain hues are outright considered inappropriate colours for a funeral.
Bright, flashy colours can be seen as disrespectful or inconsiderate at a time when sensitivity is paramount.
Be it a tie, a shirt, or even a pocket square, if it may draw the eye for the wrong reasons, it's advisable to leave it at home.
When in doubt, stick to classics and consult with the family or the funeral director to avoid any fashion faux pas.
Can A Man Wear Jeans To A Funeral?
Generally, jeans at a funeral are not encouraged as they tend to represent a more casual dress code that may not align with the solemnity of the event.
With that being said, if the jeans are black and paired with a blazer this may be sufficient. I understand there may be instances where you may not have access to traditional funeral garments.
Pairing jeans with a formal shirt can elevate the outfit and help you adhere closer to funeral clothing etiquette.
If unsure, always opt for more traditional funeral attire, or consider contacting the family for guidance.
Can I Wear Chinos To A Funeral?
While less formal than traditional dress trousers, chinos in dark shades such as black or dark grey can be deemed acceptable funeral garments, particularly in less formal or outdoor summer services.
When opting for chinos, ensure they are well-pressed and paired with a dress shirt or fitted blazer to make them as formal as you can.
What Do Men Wear To Funerals In Summer?
When you're preparing your ensemble for a funeral in the warmer months, it's essential to select attire that accommodates warmer conditions without sacrificing the formality of the occasion.
Lightweight suits are especially fitting as they're more airy and still offer that formal finish you need.
Fabrics such as linen and lightweight wool help maintain composure under the sun's glare, ensuring that you can pay your respects without discomfort.
Men's Funeral Attire - Tapered Menswear
No matter which style you choose, fit is everything. A poorly fitted shirt at a funeral create a sloppy look.
At Tapered Menswear we have created the perfect fitting shirt for men from slim to an athletic build.
Our TAPERED fit has been developed by leading Tailors and industry experts to provide you with a revolutionary fit, you won’t ever need to take your shirt to a tailor again or give lots of different measurements.
Perfect for those seeking a muscular fit, or bespoke tailoring - ready to wear! The best shirts for a muscular build. Our Tapered collection also includes muscle fit short sleeve shirts, muscle fit t-shirts and muscle fit polos.
Our revolutionary cut provides a 10" drop from chest to waist.
Fully fitted in chest and shoulders whilst tapering sharply down, giving a tailored look. No more bagginess in the waist.
Enhanced Darts
Expertly tailored darts at the back, for the perfect fit.
Stretch Cotton
Super soft, breathable and allows complete freedom of movement.
Perfect for the office.
With our non obtrusive logo stitched subtly on the wrist makes our TAPERED Fit Shirt ideal for formal occasions.
Tapered Fit Shirts are the true solution to your shirt fitting problem. If you want a shirt that fits your body like it should, check out or best selling shirt here
