The less structured nature of a celebration of life makes the appropriate outfit options less obvious than in a traditional funeral. If you’re attending a ceremony arranged by a Saint Charles cremation service, this guide will help you choose the right thing to wear. 

Consider the venue of the ceremony 

Celebrations of life are usually themed ceremonies. The host family designs it around the deceased person’s passions, interests, and beliefs. This, combined with the less formal nature of the celebration of life, means it can happen anywhere. 

A celebration of life can happen in a restaurant, park, mountain top, stadium, movie theater, etc. Therefore, the right outfit should match the occasion. High heels, while classy and formal, are not appropriate for a celebration of life on a hill, but they are great if it’s at an upscale restaurant. 

Of course, you should still wear something respectful, whatever the location, but the specific dress style will vary. 

What type of celebration of life 

There are different ways a family can personalize a celebration of life for their loved one. It can be cultural, religious, sports, or through play. Each one shapes the type of celebration of life it will be. 

A religious-themed celebration may be more formal than a sports-themed one. Both will require separate outfits, even if they are in the same location. The formal ceremony may require smart casual attire like button-down shirts and dress shoes. Jerseys and sneakers are, however, better for the latter. 

The activities scheduled 

The itinerary also informs what to wear. Have another look at the invitation to determine what you will be expected to do as a guest. Knowing what to expect will help you dress accordingly. 

Hiking boots are better for adventure activities, while flip-flops are suited to activities on flat ground like beaches and picnics. It will also help you carry the appropriate accessories. 

Knowing the scheduled activities also helps you determine if you need a change of clothes. It’s normal for celebrations of life to combine different kinds of activities. Another reason to consult the invitation for a clear picture of the event. 

The time of the ceremony 

Light and breathable clothing like a flowy gown and plain tees are better for warm weather. In cooler seasons, layered clothing like suits and sweaters are helpful. 

Dressing according to the weather is essential if the event is outdoors. As important as it is to dress appropriately, you should still feel comfortable. 

Beyond these considerations, other things to keep in mind when deciding what to wear to a celebration of life are: 

• Wear bright colors. There may be a color theme, but you should avoid black or dark-colored outfits in the absence of none. It doesn’t have to be colorful, just with a splash of color to match the celebratory mood. 
  
• Respect the family’s request. It may require wearing something you find ridiculous, but the dress code is one of the ways to honor the deceased. It’s worth it for a few hours. 
  
• Avoid flashy or distracting outfits and neon colors, and never wear flip-flops or sandals to a formal celebration. 

Whatever the occasion demands, keep your outfit simple but elegant. 

Planning a celebration of life? You can include memorial activities like the interment of ashes in a memorial garden or storing the urn in a columbarium niche. 

Our cremation services in Saint Charles, MO, include many memorial options you can use to honor your loved one. Call us now to learn more. Our staff is available 24/7 to answer your questions.