Funeral Dress Codes in the UK: An Overview
Choosing what to wear to a funeral is one of those questions that can feel surprisingly stressful, particularly at an already difficult time. The good news is that the rules around funeral attire in the UK are less rigid than they once were, and the most important principle is straightforward: dress in a way that shows respect for the deceased and consideration for their family.
This guide covers traditional expectations, modern funeral dress codes, religious and cultural variations, what to avoid, and specific guidance for children and teenagers.
Traditional UK Funeral Attire
Historically, black has been the predominant colour worn to funerals in the UK. This tradition dates back to at least the Victorian era, when elaborate mourning dress — including black crepe, mourning veils, and jet jewellery — were considered essential markers of proper respect. While the strict Victorian mourning customs have long since faded, black remains the expected default for formal funerals in Britain.
Traditional funeral attire for both men and women typically means:
- Smart, formal clothing in black, dark grey, or navy
- Conservative cuts — nothing revealing or casual
- Closed-toe shoes in black or dark colours
- Minimal, understated jewellery and accessories
- Hair worn neatly
The underlying principle is that your clothing should not draw attention to yourself. A funeral is a gathering centred on the deceased and the comfort of their family — not a fashion occasion.
What Men Typically Wear
For a traditional or formal funeral service in the UK, men typically wear:
- A dark suit (black, dark navy, or charcoal grey) with a white or pale shirt
- A black or dark tie (a plain dark tie is always appropriate; black ties are most traditional)
- Black leather shoes, polished
- A smart overcoat if the weather requires
If you do not own a dark suit, smart dark trousers with a dark blazer and a dark tie is an entirely acceptable alternative.
What Women Typically Wear
For women, appropriate traditional funeral attire includes:
- A dark dress, skirt suit, or trouser suit in black, navy, or dark grey
- A smart blouse paired with dark trousers or a skirt
- Low or mid-heeled shoes in black or dark colours (bear in mind that graveside burials often involve uneven ground)
- A dark coat or jacket for outdoor elements of the service
- Modest, understated jewellery
Modern and Contemporary Funerals
Not all funerals in modern Britain follow traditional dress codes. Many families now prefer to hold a "celebration of life" or a less formal service, and the dress guidance on the funeral notice may reflect this. Common modern variations include:
- "Smart dress" — meaning formal or business attire without the strict requirement for black. Dark colours are still appropriate unless otherwise specified.
- "Bright colours" or "colour of their choice" — some families explicitly invite mourners to wear the deceased's favourite colour, or a cheerful colour to reflect their personality. If this is specified, it is a genuine invitation and you need not worry about the convention of wearing black.
- "Casual dress" — occasionally used for very informal ceremonies, particularly direct cremation memorial events held at home or in a garden.
If you are unsure what is expected, it is always acceptable to contact the family or funeral director for guidance. When in doubt, smart dark clothing is never wrong.
Religious and Cultural Variations
Different faith traditions have their own expectations for funeral dress:
Muslim Funerals
Muslim funerals are typically modest affairs, and guests are expected to dress modestly. Women should cover their hair and wear loose-fitting, full-length clothing. Men should wear smart, modest clothing. Shoes are often removed before entering the prayer hall or mosque.
Jewish Funerals
Jewish funerals are generally sombre occasions. Dark, modest clothing is appropriate. Men are typically asked to cover their heads (a kippah is usually provided). Women should cover their arms and dress conservatively.
Hindu Funerals
White, rather than black, is the traditional colour of mourning in Hindu tradition. Mourners may be expected to dress in white or at least avoid wearing black. Remove shoes before entering the home or temple.
Sikh Funerals
Sikh funerals are called Antam Sanskaar. Modest, respectful clothing is expected. Visitors to the Gurdwara must cover their head, and shoes are removed at the entrance. Muted colours are appropriate — white or light colours are common.
Catholic and Church of England Funerals
Traditional dark or black attire is the norm. For mass or church services, modest and respectful dress is expected. Women are not required to cover their heads in most UK churches unless the family specifically requests it.
What Not to Wear to a Funeral
As a general rule, avoid anything that could be considered attention-seeking or disrespectful. Specifically:
- Bright or bold colours — unless explicitly invited by the family
- Casual clothing — T-shirts, shorts, sportswear, or athletic trainers are not appropriate
- Revealing clothing — low necklines, short hemlines, and transparent fabrics are not suitable
- Strong perfume or aftershave — in an enclosed space, strong scents can be overwhelming
- Noisy jewellery — large, jangling accessories can be distracting
- Overly casual footwear — flip flops, trainers, and open sandals are generally inappropriate unless the service is very informal or held outdoors
What to Wear to a Funeral in Summer
Dressing appropriately in warm weather requires some compromise. It is acceptable to wear lighter-weight fabrics in dark colours. For women, a dark linen dress or smart dark trousers with a short-sleeved blouse is appropriate. For men, a lightweight dark suit without a jacket is acceptable in warm weather, though a tie should still be worn to a formal service. Avoid anything that would look beach-appropriate.
What Should Children Wear to a Funeral?
There is no expectation that children should be dressed in formal black. The priority is that children are comfortable and feel neatly dressed. Options include:
- School uniform — widely accepted and generally a sensible practical choice, particularly for younger children
- Smart casual — dark trousers or skirt with a neat top in a subdued colour
- Avoid brightly coloured or branded sportswear
If a child is likely to be uncomfortable in formal clothing throughout a long service, choose practicality over formality — a fidgety, uncomfortable child can be more distracting than their clothing choice.
A Final Note on the Spirit of Funeral Dress
Funeral dress codes ultimately exist to serve a single purpose: to ensure that the focus of the day remains on the deceased and their family. Clothing that is neat, sombre, and unobtrusive fulfils that purpose — regardless of whether it is precisely black or perfectly pressed. Most families are touched simply by the presence of those who loved and respected their relative, not by the precise shade of their suit.
If you are attending a funeral and genuinely have nothing appropriate in your wardrobe, a charity shop or supermarket can often provide a suitable dark outfit at low cost.
This guide is provided by the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD), which represents funeral directing businesses conducting over 80% of all UK funerals. Find a trusted NAFD funeral director near you.
