I’m sure many of you have attended a funeral at some point. So, what should you wear to be both formal and respectful? It’s actually quite simple—just follow these guidelines.
At traditional funerals, black suits are typically the go-to choice. Black symbolizes seriousness, solemnity, and respect, avoiding bright colors to express mourning for the deceased.
Most people opt for notch lapels, which are common and have narrower flaps that can help flatter your figure, giving a sharper overall appearance. If the occasion calls for a more distinguished or authoritative look, you might choose a peak lapel, which is wider at the top and creates a more striking silhouette.
When it comes to suit buttons, if there are two buttons, etiquette dictates that you should only button the top one, leaving the second unbuttoned. For suits with three buttons, you can choose whether to button the first one, but the second must be buttoned, and the third should remain unbuttoned.
Here’s a gentle reminder: When attending a wake, funeral, or burial service, you should wear dark or solid-colored clothing. Avoid flashy outfits or excessive makeup, and definitely refrain from wearing bright colors. In many Asian cultures, vibrant colors, especially red, symbolize celebration and good fortune. Wearing such bright red clothing to a farewell service can be considered very disrespectful to the bereaved family.