8 Tips for What to Wear to a Spring Funeral

Deciding what to wear to a funeral service is more challenging in the spring or summer. You want to avoid being distracted by uncomfortable clothing for the weather yet remain respectful of the occasion and the surroundings. To help you prepare for honoring your loved one, we put together eight quick tips on what to wear to a warm-weather memorial.

1. Consider the Venue and Tone

Will the service be held primarily indoors, outdoors, or both? Is there a stated dress code, or is it more informal? You may ask the funeral director or arranger for guidance. 

• Opt for layered clothing choices if there will be a combination of indoor and outdoor activities. 
• Avoid tight-fitting clothes; looser garments allow more air between your skin and the material.
• Women can wear a short-sleeve dress or a nice shirt or blouse paired with a skirt or dress pants. Sleeveless tops or dresses are acceptable, but bring a light jacket, sweater, or shawl to cover your bare arms. 
• For gentlemen, choose a lightweight suit, tailored pants, and a coordinated blazer for most memorial services. Another option: short-sleeve button-ups or polo shirts in solid or muted patterns can be suitable when jackets are not required.
• Only those under the age of ten should wear shorts to a funeral.

2. Choose Breathable Fabrics

Natural fabrics are best in warm weather. You want your focus on the service and honoring your loved one, not being uncomfortable in heavy or itchy clothes.

• Choose silk, linen, chambray, and cotton that are breathable and comfortable in warmer weather.
• Avoid synthetic materials like polyester and nylon that trap heat and moisture.
• Respect your internal temperature preferences, and dress appropriately if you tend to run warmer or are usually cold. 
• Jeans and other denim clothing are generally inappropriate for a funeral unless specifically requested by the family for a themed event.

3. Be Ready for Quick Weather Changes

Spring weather can be unpredictable, from cool mornings to hot afternoons. 

• Bring sunglasses for outdoor events and receptions.
• Have a light raincoat and an umbrella on hand in case of rain.
• Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes that won’t slip on wet grass or slick floors. 
• Avoid loud, “clunky” shoes or boots that make too much noise in a quiet chapel or sanctuary. 

4. Add a Hat if You Like

In addition to any religious requirements about head coverings, a hat protects you from the heat and glare of a spring or summer day. 

• Choose an appropriate hat for the occasion, such as a lightweight panama, trilby, or fedora style.
• Ladies may opt for a fascinator, but these do not offer shade or sun protection.
• Gentlemen should always remove hats indoors; ladies should remove weather-specific head coverings (knit caps, rain bonnets, sun hats) when inside or if their hat obstructs the view of those seated behind them. 
• Never wear athletic caps or visors. 

5. Consider Your Relationship 

Your relationship with the deceased can influence what you should wear to the funeral. Generally, it's respectful to dress in a manner that honors the preferences of the deceased and their family. 

• Immediate family members usually opt for more formal attire, such as a dark suit or dress. 
• Family members and friends might dress for cultural or religious purposes.
• Business casual attire is acceptable if you are a neighbor, work colleague, or acquaintance. 

6. Wear Neutral Tones

While black or navy blue is always a safe choice to wear to a funeral, dark colors retain heat and might be uncomfortable outside. 

• Spring funeral attire includes light, neutral colors: gray, beige, mauve, or off-white. 
• Both men and women can wear a solid color or a discrete pattern (houndstooth, pinstriped, small geometric, or floral). 
• Avoid bright colors, shirts with logos or graphics, and flashy prints. You can wear a solid color or a discrete pattern. 
• Men and women should avoid bright colors, shirts with logos or graphics, and flashy prints. 

7. Accessorize Wisely

Men and women should keep their accessories simple and lowkey.

• Avoid flashy, oversized jewelry and accessories.
• Use cologne or perfume sparingly, as heavy scents may cause allergic reactions or become unpleasant in a warm room or outside.
• Apply sunscreen if you will be outside to protect yourself from sunburn.
• Silence digital watches, fitness trackers, and phones, or turn them off during the service.

8. Match the Theme

Themed memorials, especially celebrations of life, are becoming more popular as families focus on honoring their loved ones uniquely and authentically. In these situations, you are encouraged to wear clothes that you might not normally wear for a memorial, such as:

• Sports jerseys or colors representing your loved one’s favorite team.
• Hawaiin leis and tropical, festive clothes for a beach or luau-themed event.
• Colorful holiday sweaters, shirts, and tops for someone who loved Christmas. 

More Than What You Wear

By following these tips, you can find appropriate attire to feel comfortable and show respect during a spring or summer funeral. Remember, funeral etiquette is more than what you choose to wear. It is a time to pay attention to the moment and provide comfort and support to those mourning. As you consider what to wear, you may also contemplate your own funeral prearrangement. Thinking about your preferences can help ensure your loved ones understand your wishes and relieve them from the stress of making funeral arrangements without your input.