Jewish funerals have historically had a pretty strict dress code. But times are changing… 

While every service has its roots firmly in centuries-old traditions, today’s services might not follow quite such a formal path. Despite this, the Jewish funeral dress code generally remains on the conservative side.

Jewish Funeral Dress Code FAQs

• Black is black, right? Or is there a choice?
• What are acceptable Jewish funeral dress code items?
• What if I’m not Jewish?

Black is black, right? Or is there a choice?

The overwhelmingly popular color of clothes seen at a Jewish funeral is black. However, it’s acceptable to wear other dark colors, such as navy blue, grey, or brown. You’ll find that close family members tend to stick to traditional black, but this isn’t necessary for others who attend the ceremony.

Whatever color you choose to wear, avoid anything that is bright or has overly exaggerated patterns. Think somber and you won’t go wrong.

What are acceptable Jewish funeral dress code items?

Traditionally, men should wear a black jacket, suit pants, collared shirt, and tie, as well as a yarmulke to cover the head. Women should opt for a simple dress with a jacket or perhaps a conservative blouse and skirt.

Men should wear dress shoes. Women should refrain from wearing sandals or open-toed shoes.

Close family members also wear a black ribbon. This is cut during the ceremony to represent the loss of a loved one—an act called the Kirah.

However… Today’s landscape has, in many cases, moved away from strictly traditional Jewish funeral dress code norms. You might see men sporting shades of grey, brown, blue, or even other colors. It’s also not unusual to see men wearing slacks and sports jackets—perhaps with a sports shirt—rather than more formal attire.

Women are no longer restricted to solely dresses and skirts. Instead, it’s acceptable to opt for a trouser suit (although, it has to be said that dresses remain more popular). Lighter colors are also worn, although plain as opposed to patterned continues to be more usual. 

What if I’m not Jewish?

Non-Jewish people often attend Jewish funerals. If you’re unsure of what to wear, sticking to the traditional Jewish funeral dress code will mean that you don’t feel out of place or underdressed. Of course, if the family communicates that such formality isn’t necessary, then it’s fine to push the boundaries a little. 

Of course, it’s still a somber affair, so do refrain from being too outrageous. Women, especially, should ensure that they don’t wear anything that might be considered disrespectful. Such items might include overly short skirts or dresses, low-cut tops, or anything that reveals too much bare flesh

Whether it’s a Burial or Cremation, the Jewish Cremation Society is Here to Help

While burial remains the most usual end-of-life service, there is a growing trend towards cremation. This is especially true within the Reform sect and increasingly for Reconstructionists. There are many reasons for this, many of which are purely practical. For instance, it’s far cheaper to transport ashes back to Israel than it is to transport a body in a coffin.

Another reason behind the popularity of cremation is the relaxation of many graveyards that now allow the interment of ashes.

Whatever your community, the Jewish Cremation Society can assist. Perhaps you want to talk about cremation in confidence. Maybe you’re planning your own future burial or that of a loved one. You might even just want to chat about pushing the boundaries about what’s considered an acceptable Jewish funeral dress code.

Whatever your query and no matter where in the country you might be, we can help. 

The first step is to visit web link for more information. We’re discreet and you’re guaranteed that all information is given in the strictest of confidence.