The traditional choice
Dark, smart clothes are still the most common choice at UK funerals: a suit or smart trousers with a shirt, or a dress, skirt or smart trousers, in black, navy, grey or another dark colour. Keep it simple - nothing too bright or casual.
You don't need to buy anything new. Something smart from your wardrobe is fine.
When the family asks for something different
More and more families ask guests to wear bright colours, a favourite football shirt, or something that reflects the person's personality. If the funeral notice or invitation mentions a dress code, follow it - it's the family's way of asking you to celebrate that life with them. If nothing is said, dark and smart is the safe choice.
Practical things
Burials are outdoors
Often on grass. Wear shoes you can walk on uneven ground in, and bring a coat and umbrella.
Crematoria and churches can be cold
Even in summer. A layer you can take off helps.
Children
Don't need to be in black. Neat, comfortable clothes are fine.
Customs in different faiths
Customs vary between communities and between families, so if you're unsure, ask someone close to the family.
Christian
Dark, smart clothes are usual.
Hindu
Mourners often wear white. Black is less common.
Sikh
White or muted colours are usual. Everyone covers their head in the gurdwara, and you'll be asked to remove your shoes.
Jewish
Dark, modest clothes. Men usually cover their heads - a kippah is often provided.
Muslim
Modest, loose clothing. Women usually cover their hair, and you may be asked to remove your shoes at the mosque.
Humanist or non-religious
Often guided by the family, who may ask for colour.
Reviewed by the Arranging a Funeral team - September 2026.
More in this section
- Attending a funeral
- Deciding whether to go
- What to wear
- Getting to the funeral
- The funeral procession
- What happens at a funeral service
- After the funeral
- Funeral etiquette
Common questions
What should I wear to a funeral?
Dark, smart clothes are still the most common choice, in black, navy, grey or another dark colour. You don't need to buy anything new.
What if the family asks for bright colours?
Follow the dress code if the notice or invitation mentions one. It's the family's way of asking you to celebrate the person's life with them.
Do children need to wear black?
No. Neat, comfortable clothes are fine.
What should I wear to a burial?
Shoes you can walk on grass and uneven ground in, plus a coat and umbrella, as burials are outdoors.
Are there different customs for different faiths?
Yes. For example, mourners often wear white at Hindu funerals, and heads are covered in a gurdwara. If you're unsure, ask someone close to the family.