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What to Wear to a Memorial Service June 16, 2022

Person visiting lost love one

Traditional memorial services have been somber events, where family and friends gather to mourn the death of a loved one. Attendees often wore conservative black or dark clothing, and the ceremonies themselves were most often sad and tear-filled. The dark clothing symbolizes death and the mourning that follows.

While memorial services have been westernized to be less formal, those attending them should still dress appropriately out of respect for the deceased and their family. Women should consider darker or at least neutral-colored outfits of modest dresses, blouses, skirts, and slacks.

For men, neutral or darker-colored suits, sport coats, and button-down, collared shirts are appropriate.

Today’s celebrations of life are intended to be less heavy and more celebratory. Likewise, so should the dress for these types of memorial services. The family of the loved one may request something different.

There are, of course, plenty of situations that can be the exception to the rule. There have been memorial services for ranchers and equestrians where Western wear has been appropriate, or funerals for bikers where motorcycle riding wear has been encouraged. The point is, memorial services are more customized, personalized, and interesting than ever.

Overall, dressing for a memorial service doesn’t have to be challenging, and you likely have clothes in your closet that will serve you well. Just keep in mind that you want to look nice without standing apart from the crowd. Avoid casual sandals, sneakers, bright colors, and large jewelry.

There are plenty of benefits to pre-planning your own funeral and final services. You can help control costs, select your own music, decide upon who you want to speak, and more. Most of all, you are helping to make some difficult decisions for your family at a time that is already challenging for them.

If you would like to know more about pre-planning final and memorial services, we invite you to reach out to us at the Cremation Society of Northern Kentucky. From traditional, religious-based services to celebrations of life and unique, one-of-a-kind funeral services, we would be honored to serve you.

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