How appropriate that just two days ago I opened my Bible and found my grandpa’s memorial card from 2007 smashed in between the book of Hebrews. He died on March 4th, a day and a family experience I’ll never forget. Though his passing was expected, when it actually happened, we still had all the same feelings as if we hadn’t known it was coming. The grief, shock and plain sadness overcomes without warning, and when something like this happens, the last thing you want to think about is what you’ll wear to the funeral. Although we can’t prepare you for the unexpected emotions, we can prepare you with some tips to choosing the right outfit, and quickly.

Colors Are Okay
For the most traditional of colors to wear to a funeral, black and navy take the cake.
However, depending on whose life you’re celebrating, it may be appropriate to wear a color like plum, olive green, cobalt or even a print. Whatever you choose, keep the shades on the darker side, you’re there to pay respects, not to bring attention to your outfit.

Have Something On Hand
The thing is, you never know when you’ll get that awful, awful call. It could mean having to jump on the very next flight out of town, so make sure you have something worth wearing right in your closet. You don’t want to have to worry about going shopping at a time so sensitive, so keep some simple pieces that can be worn to more than just a memorial service.

Consider a basic, work-related style as the inspiration:

• A modest cut dress. Something not too short, not too tight, and definitely not too revealing in the bosom.
• A tailored jacket or blazer. Everyone should have at least one blazer, as they go with everything. From jeans and a white tee, all the way to a sequin dress, a simple black blazer will get you everywhere.
• A nice pant. The same goes for a pant that fits well. Whether they’re tailored or a fashionable loose-cut trouser, t-shirts or blouses both look great.

Cover All Bases
Of course with most occasion dressing, you want to be aware of what season it is. Check the local weather to make sure you aren’t grabbing for a dress when what you really need are pants and a raincoat. The other thing you’ll need? Tissues. Although this might have nothing to do with putting on clothes, it does however have plenty to do with being prepared for an event.

To be honest, I couldn’t tell you what I wore on that day to my grandpa’s funeral if there weren’t pictures to remind me. The fact is, what you wear isn’t going to be the thing you remember, or the thing that anyone else remembers. Celebrating the life of someone you love and being there to support friends and family through the toughest times is all that matters.

Image via Karla’s Closet