Funeral clothing etiquette

[aak0517]

I've not been to a funeral in a long time. Are you supposed to completely be in all black? Do I have to wear a dress or can I do black slacks and a top/cardi?

I need to figure something out before we fly out and I don't have anything that's all black for a dress that is appropriate length wise (only shorter "vegas" type dress)

[bcarp30]

I think you said you're going to Chicago so pants or a sweater would be acceptable. I've worn a knee-length black dress, black and white skirt with black tights/sweater, and pants and a dark sweater. Whatever will keep you warm and look nice is appropriate I would like. So sorry again for your loss.

[busybodyk]

Slacks and a cardi is fine. All black isn't necessary.

[aak0517]

Please excuse my spelling errors, eek!

[majick143]

What the PP said. All black isn't necessary but something muted and darker in color would be best. Slacks and a top with a cardi is completely acceptable. Navy, brown, even burgundy and wine colors are totally fine. I worked in the industry for a while (long story) and I've seen ALL kinds of things. I doubt that ANYTHING you wore would be even remotely inappropriate. I'm so sorry for your loss A. These times are so difficult. Hugs to you.

[aqualuv]

The last funeral I went to I wore a black blazer and black pants.

[kris356]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Anything that is neutral is fine(black, grey, navy, even wine and burgundy like majick said) No need for a dress. You could do slacks and cardigan, a skirt with a blouse or shell. I don't think you could possibly dress inappropriately.

[xokell2]

What everyone else said. Neutral dark colors and conservative. I'm sorry for your loss

[aak0517]

Thanks guys. I got home and realized my one pair of black slacks don't fit. So I'm going to run to target or something and see about getting a cheap pair or a black dress or something. I never wear slacks and haven't put the ones I have on in yearsssss. So I'll figure something out.

Thanks for the advice- I had no idea you could wear dark muted colors with black so that helps me wardrobe situation.

And thanks everyone for the condolences. It means a lot.

[niknik]

Last funeral I attended, I wore a black sundress (summer) and a grey cardigan.

[LoveBug]

I'm so sorry to hear about your H's grandfather.

[Deleted]

Dark-ish clothing is appropriate.  Dark dress pants and a cardi are perfect. No need for head to toe black although you can't go wrong with it either.

[scout8]

I think this is a regional thing. In Chicago, everyone wears black to funerals. I think pants and a sweater are fine.

[polarbearfans]

The last few funerals I have been too have been a range of color. Conservative, but color present.

eta: this is in Midwest/south

[minna]

I think that as long as you are wearing darker colors and more conservative clothes, you're good. Pants and a cardi sounds totally appropriate.

The last time I was at a funeral, H's step-cousin showed up in a bright blue lace dress that was backless. She wore a regular bra with it.