Traditionally, a memorial service is often a formal affair that requires attendees to dress in black and other dark colors that symbolize death and mourning. The way you dress for a memorial service or cremation ceremony should properly portray respect for the deceased and their family.

However, as Westernized culture continues to evolve with each passing decade, memorial services are slowly starting to veer away from being overly formal and are becoming more celebratory in a manner that celebrates a person’s life. Plus, as cremation is becoming an increasingly popular option over traditional burial, families are starting to plan memorial services more creatively than in the past.

Although wearing formal black attire is still widely viewed as respectful attire for a memorial service, what you end up wearing to any given service may vary depending on how a family wishes to honor their loved one’s passing.

Some families wish to honor their loved ones by wearing the deceased’s favorite color, while some request that attendees wear festive attire such as Hawaiian shirts and muumuus. In any case, if you’re not quite sure what to wear to a memorial service, check with a close friend or family member of the deceased, or stick to wearing formal black attire.

Below are general tips you can follow when dressing for a formal memorial service or cremation ceremony.

Women’s memorial service attire:

• Choose dark, neutral colors such as black, brown, navy, or gray
• Wear a dress, skirt and blouse, or business-casual pants and blouse
• Choose clothing that covers the knees and shoulders
• If wearing jewelry, choose simple and traditional pieces
• Avoid wearing see-through, sheer materials or floral prints
• Avoid wearing high-heels or shoes that sparkle

Men’s memorial service attire:

• Choose dark, neutral colors such as black, brown, navy, or gray
• Wear a suit or pressed slacks with a collared shirt and tie
• Wear a pressed white or light blue shirt

Heartland Cremation can help provide you with the guidance and planning you need for arranging the cremation of your loved one. Family-owned and operated, Heartland Cremation serves the Kansas City area, including the communities of Overland Park, Leawood, Prairie Village, Lenexa, and Olathe. Please contact us to discuss your cremation needs today.