what to wear to a formal military funeral?

Question

I have a funeral to attend tomorrow and I don't have any idea what to wear. It's a formal military funeral and I'm thinking of wearing a black and white dress but can I wear white? Or does it have to be solid black?

Answer 1

If you are a civilian the same thing you would to a regular Funeral a black suit, you can wear bright colors but if everyone is in black you may stand out

Answer 2

If you are in the military you should wear the military dress blues otherwise if you are a civilian I would suggest the black or dark color. Wearing all white to a funeral is inappropriate. Since this is a military funeral you need to show respect not only to the soldier but to his/her family.

Answer 3

As long as it's more black than white it should be fine.

Navy/dark blue, Dark Purple/Eggplant, Black, Charcoal or Chocolate are all fine colors.

If you are in the military it is perfectly fine for you to wear you're class A or Dress uniform, if not than a skirt and blouse with a jacket and heels, a dress with heels, or a long sleeve blouse and skirt are all appropriate. And stockings! A nice black hat if you have one or care to. Pearls are always appropriate. Even a crisp white long sleeve blouse with pearls, a black skirt, stockings and black heels is fine.

Carry a dark purse if you must with a hankie. A nice card or small gift book is appropriate as well.


Oh and keep your opinions about the war to yourself -- good or bad. This is not the time - even if it's a vet from another war. Answer politely but don't give your opinions unless specifially asked and even then a better answer is I don't think this is the appropriate time but I would love to talk to you about that later.

Answer 4

Page 9-43 is were to begin. Sounds like you have not been around long. Yes you should wear your Class A. At a military funeral, persons in military uniform attending in their individual capacity face the casket and execute the hand salute at the following times: when honors, if any, are sounded; at any time when the casket is being moved (the exception being when they themselves are moving); during cannon salutes, if sounded; during the firing of volleys; and while “Taps” is being played. The rest is at the link! Many years ago at a cousins funeral each Army pallbearer presented himself to the open casket and rendered honors. It is not in the FM but if you do stand at the casket I see nothing wrong with a slow salute follwed by an about face and then seat yourself. Even if it is not normal I doubt anyone would make a comment. If any other members of your unit are there follow the lead of the senior person or ask them. SSG US Army 73-82

Answer 5

Traditionally, one wears black clothing which is in good taste when attending a funeral. If in the military the dress military uniform is worn.

Answer 6

I would not wear white to a formal military funeral. I'd wear black or some kind of dark blue, purple, brown, grey.....

You may be a standout in white and some people may not appreciate it even though your there to support the family.

uscg mstc

Answer 7

Civilian side-mourning outfit. Mostly darker colors. Unless it's more of a celebration of life than a funeral. I have seen those before. People wore bright colors and celebrated the life that was lost.

Military side-Class A's/Dress blues or whatever the dress uniform is for your branch f service.

Answer 8

Sorry for the loss, just being there will help the family, please wear what you would to a civilian funeral as long as it's in good taste.

Please Support Our Troops and Civilian Contractors

And Remember Those of them we have Lost

Answer 9

Wear what you think is appropriate for the funeral. I think white is okay as long as it's tasteful.

Answer 10

That is fine as long as it isn't a stomach baring or low cut dress as well. Be conservative and respectful.