What to Wear to a Military Funeral: A Guide to Showing Respect
Attending a military funeral can be a solemn and emotional experience, and it’s essential to dress appropriately to show respect for the fallen service member and their family. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to wear to a military funeral:
General Guidelines
- Business attire: Aim for a professional and respectful outfit that is similar to what you would wear to a business meeting or a formal event.
- Avoid bright colors and bold patterns: Stick to muted colors and simple patterns to avoid drawing attention away from the deceased and their family.
- Dress modestly: Avoid revealing or tight clothing that may be considered inappropriate for a somber occasion.
For Men
- Suits: A navy blue or charcoal gray suit is a classic choice for a military funeral. Make sure it’s well-fitted and clean.
- Dress shirts: Opt for a white or light-colored dress shirt with a conservative collar style.
- Ties: A simple, muted-colored tie is suitable. Avoid novelty or patterned ties.
- Shoes: Black or dark brown leather dress shoes are recommended. Make sure they are polished and in good condition.
- Accessories: Keep jewelry and accessories to a minimum. A simple watch and a pair of cufflinks are acceptable.
For Women
- Dresses or skirts: A knee-length or longer dress or skirt is a good choice. Opt for a conservative style and a muted color.
- Blouses: A white or light-colored blouse with a modest neckline is suitable.
- Blazers or jackets: Consider wearing a blazer or jacket to add a touch of professionalism to your outfit.
- Shoes: Low to moderate heels or loafers are suitable. Avoid open-toed shoes or sandals.
- Accessories: Keep jewelry to a minimum. A simple necklace, earrings, and a pair of stud earrings are acceptable.
Additional Tips
- Dress according to the weather: If the funeral is being held outdoors, dress accordingly to the weather conditions.
- Consider the military branch: If you’re attending a funeral for a specific military branch, you may want to incorporate elements of that branch’s uniform into your outfit. For example, you could wear a blue suit for a Navy funeral or a green suit for an Army funeral.
- Be mindful of headwear: If you choose to wear a hat or headscarf, make sure it’s not too flashy or attention-seeking. A simple, conservative headpiece is suitable.
Table: Military Funeral Dress Code
| Category | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| Suit | Navy blue or charcoal gray | Not applicable |
| Dress shirt | White or light-colored | White or light-colored |
| Tie | Simple, muted-colored | Not applicable |
| Shoes | Black or dark brown leather | Low to moderate heels or loafers |
| Accessories | Simple watch and cufflinks | Simple necklace, earrings, and stud earrings |
In Conclusion
Attending a military funeral is a significant honor, and it’s essential to dress appropriately to show respect for the fallen service member and their family. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you’re dressed appropriately for the occasion. Remember to keep your outfit simple, conservative, and respectful, and to avoid drawing attention away from the deceased and their family.
