More and more, families are choosing celebrations of life rather than traditional funerals to acknowledge the loss of a loved one — they prefer to celebrate the person’s life rather than mourn their loss. Even though celebrations of life are becoming more popular, it can still be difficult to know what to wear. There’s a delicate balance of being respectful while also embracing the celebratory spirit of the event.
Where to Start
Celebrations of life can range in tone from very casual at one end to very formal at the other. When deciding what to wear, a good place to start is the invitation. The details included there will help you make the right choice that shows respect for the family’s wishes.
Pay particular attention to the venue, the time of day for the celebration, and if a dress code or theme has been specified. If the family has chosen a theme for the celebration of life and has asked guests to reflect that theme in their attire, then it’s completely appropriate to throw convention out the window in order to respect their wishes. For example, if the person loved flowers and their family asks you to wear bright colours or floral prints, then feel free to do so.
It’s also totally appropriate to wear something that represents the deceased. For instance, if they were known for their colourful bow ties or scarves, you could wear one — a fitting tribute other guests would appreciate.
The following dress code will help you decide on an appropriate celebration of life outfit. But if you’re still unsure about what to wear, check with the hosts.
Casual
If the event is being held in a more relaxed environment like a private home or outdoor venue, the family has decided to hold a casual celebration of life. That means you can dress down in tasteful, neat clothing. Golf shirts for men and blouses for women paired with tidy jeans (not ripped) would be appropriate.
Smart Casual
When the celebration of life is somewhere between casual and formal, smart casual attire is the safe bet. A good choice for women is a stylish dress or a blouse with tailored slacks or a skirt. Men should opt for chinos or dress pants with a collared shirt.
Business Casual
In more formal settings, business casual attire is in order. Men should wear dress slacks with a collared shirt. A tie isn’t necessary in this setting. For women, a dress or blouse with a skirt or slacks are good alternatives. A blazer is optional for both men and women.
Semi-formal
If the venue is more upscale or if the family requests semi-formal attire, your clothing should support the sophistication of the event. Men should wear a suit and tie. Women have the option of wearing a cocktail dress or elegant blouse with a skirt or dressy trousers.
Err on the side of caution
In the absence of a specified dress code for the celebration of life, it’s smart to keep in mind the location and time of year. And there’s nothing wrong with wearing something that brings you closer to the person you’re celebrating. For instance, if you have a concert shirt or a favourite outfit from a trip you took together, then wear those.
If you’re still unsure what to wear, reach out to the hosts or other guests to ask what they’ll be wearing. At the end of the day, let modesty and comfort be your guide. That means no loud patterns, no logos or slogans, no revealing outfits, no overly casual or unkempt clothing like ripped jeans. And don’t forget to consider the cultural and religious elements of the event because those may be your biggest clues for what to wear.
Your celebration of life outfit is ultimately a reflection of the person you’re remembering and the life they lived. Understanding the nature of the event and the details of the invitation will serve you well.
