A funeral service is an opportunity to pay your respects and say a final goodbye to the deceased while offering support and condolences to their loved ones. While some services are more formal than others, attendees should always dress appropriately, as this is a crucial part of good funeral etiquette. Here are some do's and don'ts to bear in mind as you decide what to wear.

Do:

Go for darker colors.

Darker colors are always a safe choice for funerals. For more formal services, like those held in churches or in accordance with longstanding cultural traditions, black clothing is a sign of respect and shows that you are mourning the loss. For less formal services, like celebrations of life or funerals held in less traditional locations, any darker colors are likely acceptable. However, don't go for something too bright or bold, or you might stand out. Ultimately, any funeral service is only about one person—the deceased.

Dress like you're going to church or a job interview.

Business or business casual is almost always a safe bet for a funeral. If you know the service will be a traditional one, then suits and ties, pantsuits, long skirts or dresses, and long-sleeved shirts are appropriate. For a more casual service, opt for something more relaxed but still somewhat formal, such as sweaters, blouses, or chinos.

Don't:

Wear revealing clothes.

There are a few reasons to steer clear of overly revealing clothes, even at a laidback funeral service. First, it can draw attention and pull focus from the solemnity of the occasion. Second, it can show a lack of respect for the deceased.Lastly, some religious traditions prohibit such displays; for instance, bare shoulders and knees are considered inappropriate in most Catholic Churches.

Forget footwear.

No matter the type of service, footwear should be modest. Flipflops, tennis shoes, sneakers, and open-toed sandals are rarely suitable for a funeral, unless the obituary expressly states a relaxed, come-as-you-are setting. Choose a shoe that covers the entire foot, and be mindful of any noise they might make; some dress shoes and high heels can make quite a racket on hard-surface floors, which can distract from the service.

If you've experienced a loss, the caring team at TP White & Sons Funeral Home will help you plan a memorable funeral service. For over 150 years, they have been serving the Cincinnati, OH, area. They provide funeral planning, cremation, and burial services, as well as preplanning assistance. Call (513) 231-7150 to arrange a consultation or visit their website to browse their services.