Color

• It is by no exaggeration when the phrase "Are you going to a funeral?" is directed toward an individual dressed all in black. Black is both respectful and symbolic for the event. Dark colors are "fading" colors that blend into the background, and the purpose of a funeral is not to stick out but to focus all attention on the deceased. However, black is not the only color you can wear; dark colors such as gray and navy blue are also appropriate, and whites and neutral tones should be worn as the offset or accent color of blouses and collared shirts. The color code applies to men, women and children.
  
  

Women

• Women can choose from dresses, suits, skirts or dress pants. When choosing a dress, make sure that the shoulders are covered as a signal of respect (this is also the usual dress code for churches). If your dress does have bare shoulders, cover them with a matching cardigan or shrug that does not need to be removed when indoors. Pant suits can be worn with white or neutral toned blouses (it is not appropriate for a woman to wear a tie in this situation). If wearing a skirt or dress pant, the skirt or pant must be a dark shade, but the blouse can be white or a neutral color. If desired, women may wear a black or gray dress hat, white or black gloves, or a dark colored scarf. Jewelry should also be kept to a minimum.
  
  

Men

• Men don't have as many options for dress as women do. It is most appropriate and expected that men wear suits for the occasion. The color code applies in either black, navy or gray suit (both pant and jacket) with a white-collared shirt underneath. A tie is also necessary in a matching hue to the suit. Do not wear decorative, fun or colorful ties.
  
  

Shoes

• Women's shoes should be black or brown dress shoes (color depends on your outfit), either flats or heels. It is recommended to wear moderate height heels as significant walking is likely. Stilettos should be avoided as you don't want your heel to stick into the grass or mud at the graveside. For men, black or other wardrobe-coordinating dress shoes should be worn.
  
  

Kids and Babies

• For little ones, follow the same general rules as for adults. Boys can wear suits or simply dark dress pants with a neutral or white collared shirt, and girls can wear dark dresses or skirts. Babies should be dressed in any dark color clothing you have (even if it is a black cotton onesie with little black booties). If you don't have black or brown dress shoes for your children, it is alright that they wear whatever they have; clothing regulations are more forgiving for children than they are for adults.