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What to wear to a funeral in Barnsley

When choosing what to wear to a funeral in Barnsley, the most essential aspect is to consider the requests of the bereaved relatives. Black clothing is the traditional funeral dress, though dark or muted colours are also suitable.


A typical dress code for a funeral in Barnsley is:

  • A Dark suit

  • Smart dress or skirt

  • Shirt or blouse

  • Formal coat or jacket

  • Black shoes


If you are hesitant about what to dress in, it is absolutely ok to ask a family member or the funeral director for advice.



It's possible that the family will have requested a certain dress code or style. This is often the choice of the deceased before they passed away.


Commonly in the UK and Barnsley, colourful funerals are requested by the family. In this instance, guests are asked to wear vibrant colours to reflect the personality of the deceased.

What to wear to a funeral in Barnsley? Examples



  • Smart dark suit

  • White shirt with collar

  • Plain black tie and tie pin

  • Polished black shoes

As we alluded to earlier, a black suit isn’t always necessary but if you are unsure it is best to go for dark colours, as they are ordinarily deemed appropriate. Please avoid wearing jeans, short-sleeved shirts and trainers unless this is requested by the family.

Is a dress appropriate for a funeral?


Yes, a smart dress that reaches the knees (at least) is generally considered appropriate for a funeral. If you are planning on wearing a dress to a funeral in Barnsley then the following tips should help:

  • Knee-length skirt or dress

  • Smart plain blouse

  • Blazer

  • Smart shoes

  • Dark coloured clothing

Similar to wearing a suit, wearing a black dress or skirt isn’t always necessary but it is best to wear a dark coloured skirt or dress unless instructed otherwise by the family.


Try to choose a skirt or dress of appropriate length and avoid wearing any outfits that people may consider too revealing.


It's always a good idea to keep jewellery and accessories to the basics and if you are attending a burial, be sure to wear appropriate shoes. Be aware that In some religions and cultures, women can wear hats to funerals.

What should children wear to a funeral?


Children should also dress smart to a funeral; dark and subdued colours are often preferred. Tradition stipulates a smart dark coloured suit or smart dress.

What to wear to a funeral in winter?


Some people may need to dress somewhat differently depending on the time of year of the funeral. It’s essential to pick clothes that you will be comfortable in as some funerals can last quite a while.


If the funeral is in the winter, it’s necessary to wear warm clothing maybe even base layers. This is even more important if you are attending a burial. Dark coats, scarves and gloves can be worn.

What to wear for religious funerals in Barnsley?


If you are attending a religious funeral, then you may need to custom yourself to the etiquette of that particular faith. If you are unsure of the etiquette and dress code have a look at the tips below:

  • Catholic funerals – Usually dark, simple clothing

  • Buddhist funerals – Family members traditionally wear white. Attendees are required to wear simple black or dark clothing.

  • Christian funerals – See Catholic funerals

  • Hindu funerals – White is deemed the primary colour of grief at a Hindu funeral.

  • Jewish funerals – Black is commonly worn at a Jewish funeral. Dark colours are also acceptable

  • Muslim funerals – Etiwutte is to dress modestly and wear black or dark colours.

  • Sikh funerals – Traditionally, white is seen as the colour of mourning. Black or dark colours are more common in Western society.

Don't wear at a funeral


These are things that shouldn't really be worn at a funeral unless the family has stated otherwise. Avoid wearing bright coloured or bright clothing to a funeral. If you are in any doubt whatsoever always air on the side of caution.


Avoid any of the below when attending a funeral:

  • Trainers or flip-flops

  • T-shirts

  • Denim Jeans

  • Baseball Caps

  • Bright Coloured Ties

  • Lavish amounts of jewellery

We hope our post on what to wear for a funeral in Barnsley was helpful.

If you have more questions or would like answers to different questions, please feel free to leave a comment below or contact the friendly team at Barnsley Municipal Funerals


Find more helpful articles over at our blog

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