Do you wear all black to a viewing?

While black is always a great go-to if you're unsure about what you're wearing, colors like gray and navy are also appropriate. Your most important goal is to avoid wearing anything that will distract attention away from the loved one who has passed away.

What are you supposed to wear to a viewing?

We recommend wearing dark or neutral colors, because darker colors reflect the mourning atmosphere of the service or visitation. Clothing can be formal (think suits and dresses) or casual (pants or nice jeans and shirts).

What color should you not wear to a viewing?

Wearing dark grey or deep blue is just as appropriate as black, while brown and lighter greys are suitable for the vast majority of funeral services. However, unless specifically requested by the deceased or their family, you should avoid any bright colors such as yellows, oranges, pinks, and reds.

What should you not wear to a viewing?

Avoid wearing casual clothes like t-shirts and jeans. Business casual is typically acceptable. Stay away from festive or fun attire. Sometimes families choose to encourage the celebration of their loved one's life at the wake.

Can you wear black jeans to a viewing?

Bottom line: jeans are not appropriate for a funeral. Unless the family requests them, you should avoid wearing denim to a funeral. However, if it's a casual, outdoor service, you can consider a dark (almost black denim) paired with a button-down shirt and blazer.

Funeral Etiquette Guide - How To Behave, Dress Code + DO's & DON'Ts

What colors are appropriate for a viewing?

Black, navy, gray, neutral tones are all appropriate colors. Avoid bright or flamboyant clothing.

What is the etiquette at a viewing?

Dress nicely, but you don't need to be too formal as you would at a funeral or memorial service. The standard protocol for a visitation is to stop by, introduce yourself to the family (if needed) and pay your condolences, and then leave after a short period of time.

Do you see the body at a viewing?

During a viewing, the body of the deceased is present, often in an open casket. The deceased will have been embalmed and prepared by the funeral home, in most cases, and otherwise ready for the burial or cremation. This is an opportunity to see the deceased one last time and say your quiet goodbyes.

What do you wear to a viewing vs funeral?

What should I wear to a visitation vs a funeral? You should wear dark and muted colors to both a visitation and a funeral. However, at a funeral, you'll typically be expected to wear more formal clothing, such as a suit or a dress.

Do you wear same outfit to viewing and funeral?

What to wear to a funeral viewing. For a funeral viewing, you should dress in similar clothing as you would for a visitation. Many people choose to wear dark-colored clothing, such as black, dark gray, or dark blue while others may prefer more neutral colors (such as beige).

Is it okay to not wear black to a visitation?

When attending a visitation it is best to dress conservatively. While most people typically wear black or other dark colors to anything funeral-related, that is not necessary. What you wear should be subdued, unless otherwise requested by the family.

Can I wear black and white to a viewing?

Black is still the safest color for funeral attire, but you don't have to wear solid black. A black suit with a white shirt is acceptable or a dress that's mostly black but has a subtle color in the pattern is also fine to wear.

Is it rude not to go to a viewing?

As with a funeral service, if you are invited to a wake, viewing, or visitation you should feel free to go. If the event is limited to family only, you should respect the family's wishes and not attend.

Can I wear blue to a viewing?

Proper Wake Attire for Women

You don't have to wear black, but it is acceptable if you decide to wear all black. Other colors include navy blue, gray, blush colors, and neutrals such as beige.

Are you supposed to bring anything to a viewing?

What You Should Bring to a Funeral, Memorial Service, or Viewing. If you're asking whether you should bring a gift to a funeral service, the answer is generally yes. While a gift is not usually required to attend the service, it's considered polite not to arrive empty-handed.

What shoes do you wear to a viewing?

Opt for a conservative, closed-toed pair of heels or flats. The same rule applies for both men's and women's sandals. If your funeral will be taking place in a warm climate, you might be tempted to throw on a pair of fancier sandals or open-toed shoes.

Can you wear jeans to a funeral viewing?

Can you wear jeans to a funeral? The most common answer is that jeans aren't considered appropriate funeral etiquette unless requested by the family. However, dark, unembellished jeans paired with a shirt, tie, and blazer for men or a blouse and a blazer for women can be appropriate for a casual service.

What to do during viewing?

Viewing Etiquette

Just remember not to disturb other mourners standing by the casket. Try to wear formal, muted clothing for a viewing and remember to offer condolences to any family members present. You should also feel free to speak quietly with other attendees about your memories of the deceased.

What to expect at a viewing?

There will typically be a set order of events, along with a eulogy, prayers or poem readings, and occasionally speeches. It's good memorial service etiquette to arrive on time, stay until the end of the service, leave your cell phone on silent and in your pocket, and to pay your respects to the family before leaving.

Can I touch body at viewing?

Typically, you are allowed to touch the body at an open-casket funeral or viewing. Holding the deceased's hands or kissing their forehead are common ways to say goodbye. If there are special reasons you should not touch the body, the deceased's family or the funeral director will let you know.

How long can a body last for viewing?

When properly stored and cooled, a body can be kept for up to six weeks at the funeral home, so you'll have plenty of flexibility when planning your memorial service.

What happens minutes before death?

They might close their eyes frequently or they might be half-open. Facial muscles may relax and the jaw can drop. Skin can become very pale. Breathing can alternate between loud rasping breaths and quiet breathing.

Is a viewing formal?

The dress for viewings is generally formal, but choices like this vary from family to family. Viewings may take place in a funeral home, though they'll sometimes occur in the home of the deceased or their family.

Can you wear white to a viewing?

As a neutral color, white should not be considered inappropriate at most North American funerals. Though you should ask the family hosting the service when in doubt, plain, neutral colors are generally acceptable for memorials. Wearing white in conjunction with other dark tones is absolutely appropriate.

How do you pay respects for a viewing?

It is customary to show your respects by viewing the deceased if the body is present and the casket is open. You may wish to say a silent prayer for, or meditate about, the deceased at this time. In some cases the family may escort you to the casket. The length of your visit at the wake is a matter of discretion.