The passing of a loved one is never easy. During this difficult time, many choose to hold a celebration of life ceremony to celebrate the deceased in a more personalized, uplifting way than a traditional somber funeral. If you've been invited to a celebration of life service, you may be wondering - what exactly should I wear?
A celebration of life tends to have a less formal, more relaxed dress code compared to a standard funeral. The attire can vary based on factors like the location, the wishes of the family, and any special requests made by the deceased beforehand. Let's break down appropriate outfit choices for men, women, and children at different types of celebration of life events.
Celebration of Life Attire for Men
For an outdoor celebration of life, such as one held at a park, beach, or the loved one's favorite nature spot, opt for nice casual clothing such as:
- Collared button-down shirt or polo
- Dress slacks or khakis
- Comfortable but polished shoes like loafers or boat shoes
If the celebration is held indoors at a home, restaurant, church, or event hall, a slightly dressier outfit is appropriate:
- A suit in a dark neutral color like charcoal or navy blue
- Crisp white or subtle colored dress shirt
- Tie (optional)
- Dress shoes in brown or black
It's best to avoid overly flashy attire such as bright colors, bold patterns, or casual items like t-shirts and sneakers, unless it was specifically requested by the family to fit the loved one's personality. When in doubt, subdued colors and classic pieces are always a respectful choice.
Celebration of Life Attire for Women
As with men's celebration of life outfits, what women wear will depend on the location and formality of the event. For an outdoor service, appropriate options include:
- A flowy sundress in a muted color or subtle print
- Dress pants and a blouse or sweater
- Skirt and top combo
- Sensible shoes like flats or low wedges
For an indoor service, choose a conservative, slightly more elevated outfit such as:
- A formal jumpsuit
- Knee-length or midi dress
- Dress and cardigan or blazer
- Low heels, pumps, or embellished flats
Makeup and accessories should be understated and not distracting. Classic jewelry like stud earrings, a simple pendant necklace, or a delicate bracelet are usually appropriate. Avoid anything too trendy, provocative, or attention-grabbing out of respect for the solemn nature of the event.
Celebration of Life Attire for Children
Many parents struggle with how to dress their kids for a celebration of life. The key is to choose items that are comfortable yet presentable. Think along the lines of what they might wear to a relative's wedding:
For boys: dress pants and a collared shirt, paired with casual dress shoes. A tie is optional.
For girls: a simple dress or a skirt and blouse, with dress flats or sandals. Avoid play clothes or shoes that could be seen as too informal.
Choose softer fabrics to help keep kids comfortable, especially if it will be a long service. It's also wise to bring a light sweater or jacket, since funeral homes and churches tend to be chilly.
What Colors Are Appropriate for a Celebration of Life?
Traditionally, black is the color most associated with funerals and mourning. However, for celebrations of life, the rules are often relaxed. While you can certainly still wear black, other subdued colors like navy blue, forest green, burgundy, and grey are also acceptable.
Some families may request that guests wear a specific color that the deceased loved, or bright colors to make it a truly joyful celebration. In those cases, by all means follow their wishes and incorporate those hues if you're comfortable with it. The most important thing is to be respectful with your outfit choices.
Celebration of Life Outfit Inspiration
Need some visual inspiration for what to wear to a celebration of life? Here are a few tasteful, appropriate ideas:
For men:
- Charcoal suit, light blue dress shirt, navy tie, black oxford shoes
- Taupe dress slacks, black polo shirt, brown belt, cognac loafers
- Navy blazer, khaki pants, white button-down, suede bucks
For women:
- Black sheath dress, gray cardigan, black tights, low black heels
- Dark green wide-leg jumpsuit, gold jewelry, nude pumps
- Burgundy blouse, black pencil skirt, opaque tights, black ankle boots
For children:
- Boys: Navy dress pants, light blue oxford shirt, brown shoes
- Girls: Gray sweater dress, white tights, black mary janes
- Gender-neutral: Khaki pants, white collared shirt, navy sweater vest, loafers
The key is to choose timeless, understated pieces in neutral or muted colors. Avoid anything too casual, flashy, or revealing. When in doubt, it's better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed for the occasion.
Celebrating a Life Through Personalized Programs and Invitations
In addition to choosing respectful attire, there are other meaningful ways to honor a loved one at their celebration of life. Creating a personalized celebration of life program is a beautiful way to celebrate their accomplishments, share favorite memories, and create a keepsake for guests.
Some things you may want to include in a celebration of life program:
- The order of service and speakers
- Special poems, quotes, or scripture
- A biography or timeline of their life
- Photos spanning from childhood to recent years
- Their favorite songs, flowers, colors, etc.
- A note from the family
You can format the program like a traditional funeral service, or get more creative with the design and tone to really capture their unique personality and spirit.
Invitations are another opportunity to set the perfect tone for the celebration of life. Include key details like:
- Date, time, and location
- Directions and parking info
- Any special attire requests
- Where to send flowers, donations, condolences
- RSVP details
- A short line about the person's life and passions
With a little thought and care, you can craft a warm invitation that reflects the joy the person brought to others. It will give guests an idea of what to expect and how to prepare as they get ready to celebrate an extraordinary life.
Key Takeaways
- A celebration of life usually has a less formal dress code than a traditional funeral
- What to wear depends on the location, family wishes, and any special requests
- For men: a suit or slacks and collared shirt, dress shoes
- For women: a conservative dress, skirt and blouse, or formal jumpsuit; understated accessories
- For kids: dressy but comfortable outfits like they'd wear to a wedding
- Subdued colors like black, navy, green, burgundy are appropriate unless brighter hues are requested
- Opt for classic, timeless pieces rather than anything too flashy, trendy, or revealing
- Personalized celebration of life programs and invitations are a meaningful way to honor the deceased
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it disrespectful to wear color to a celebration of life?
Not necessarily, as long as they're not overly loud or bright. Muted colors are generally acceptable unless the family specifies otherwise.
2. Can I wear jeans to a celebration of life?
It's best to avoid denim unless the event is very casual or you were specifically told jeans are okay. Opt for dress pants, slacks, or a skirt instead.
3. Should I still wear black to a celebration of life?
Black is always appropriate funeral attire, including celebrations of life. However, most people also wear other dark or neutral colors like navy, charcoal, or forest green.
4. What should I avoid wearing to a celebration of life?
Steer clear of anything too casual (t-shirts, sweats, sneakers), revealing (low-cut tops, short skirts/shorts), or flashy (bold colors/patterns). The focus should be on the deceased.
5. Do I have to cover my tattoos/take out my facial piercings for a celebration of life?
Use your discretion based on the location and family. If your ink/piercings are very prominent, it may be respectful to cover them or go with more subtle jewelry to not distract.
6. What's appropriate for a summer outdoor celebration of life?
Lighter, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or chambray will keep you cool. Dress pants/skirts and a blouse or polo is appropriate. Avoid shorts, tank tops, flip flops.
7. Can I wear a hat to a celebration of life?
Hats aren't common, especially for indoor events. However, a small fascinator or a tasteful wide-brimmed hat may be appropriate for some outdoor services.
8. Are floral prints okay for a celebration of life?
A subdued floral pattern can be okay, but avoid loud, bright prints. When in doubt, go for solids or subtle prints instead.
9. Should I wear pantyhose to a celebration of life?
Hosiery isn't mandatory but can be a nice touch, especially for indoor events or religious services. Flesh-toned or black tights or hose are classic choices.
10. How can I show my support for the grieving family?
Your presence alone will mean a lot. Offer your condolences, share a fond memory if there's an opportunity, sign the guestbook, make a donation in their name - small gestures go a long way.
The most important thing about a celebration of life is to be present with an open, caring heart to support the bereaved and honor a life well-lived. As long as your attire is respectful and doesn't detract from the purpose of the occasion, you'll be dressed appropriately to celebrate the remarkable person you're there to remember.