When it comes to dressing for a celebration of life ceremony, it’s important to choose outfits that are respectful, comfortable, and appropriate for the occasion. The good news is you have many more options to choose from as opposed to a funeral service.
Here are 20 outfit ideas that are perfect for a celebration of life.
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What to Wear to Celebrations of Life
1. Classic Black Dress: A timeless black dress is always a good option for a celebration of life. It’s elegant, understated, and appropriate for the occasion. Unlike a traditional funeral service however, you can play around with different textures and fabrics when it comes to your LBD.
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2. Linen Tunic and Pants: For a more relaxed look, a linen tunic and pants are comfortable and easy to wear. Opt for neutral colors like beige, white, or gray. During the winter months, you could pair dark colors such as forest green and brown to make your outfit more interesting.
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3. Maxi Dress: A flowy maxi dress in a soft color is a beautiful option for a celebration of life. It’s feminine and elegant, yet still appropriate for the occasion. For life celebrations during the summer, try going with bright colors if the dress code permits.
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4. Tailored Suit: A tailored suit in a neutral color is a classic and respectful choice for a celebration of life. It’s also versatile enough to be worn for other occasions. A suit with a dress shirt is the right outfit to wear to the funeral home as well.
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5. Flowy Skirt and Blouse: A flowy skirt and blouse in soft colors are a feminine and elegant option for a celebration of life. It’s comfortable and easy to wear, yet still appropriate for the occasion. Complete your look with a pair of flat dress shoes or heels.
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6. Wide-Legged Pants and Blouse: Wide-legged pants and a blouse are a stylish and comfortable option for a celebration of life. Opt for a lightweight fabric in a soft color during the warm months. For an outdoor event, pair your look with ballet flats or flat sandals.
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7. Midi Dress: A midi dress in a soft color is a beautiful and understated option for a celebration of life. It’s feminine and elegant, yet still appropriate for the occasion. For a more formal occasion, avoid flashy dresses and choose ones in solid colors unless the dress code specifies otherwise.
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8. Pants and Blouse: Dress pants and a blouse are a chic and sophisticated option for a celebration of life. Opt for a lightweight fabric in a neutral color. Instead of dress pants, you could also wear palazzo pants for this special occasion.
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9. Jumpsuit: A jumpsuit in a soft color is a comfortable and stylish option for a celebration of life. Make sure it’s not too tight and does not show too much skin to keep things respectful. A jumpsuit is also versatile enough to be worn for other occasions as well. Pair it with high heels if there is a formal ceremony.
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10. Wrap Dress: A wrap dress in a soft color is a beautiful and feminine option for a celebration of life. It’s comfortable and easy to wear, yet still appropriate for the occasion.
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11. Shift Dress: A celebration of life is the type of ceremony to wear a shift dress to. A shift dress in a neutral color is a classic and respectful option for a celebration of life. It’s also versatile enough to be worn for other occasions.
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12. Palazzo Pants and Blouse: Palazzo pants and a blouse are a comfortable and stylish option for a celebration of life. Opt for a lightweight fabric in a soft color for a more elegant look. You can always replace your blouse with a button-down shirt.
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13. Lace Dress: A lace dress in a solid color is a beautiful and feminine option for a celebration of life. A short-sleeved lace dress is elegant and respectful, yet still stylish and appropriate for the occasion.
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14. Wrap Skirt and Blouse: A wrap skirt and blouse are a versatile and comfortable option for a celebration of life. Opt for soft colors and lightweight fabrics for a more elegant look.
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15. High-Waisted Pants and Blouse: High-waisted pants and a blouse are a chic and sophisticated option for a celebration of life. Opt for a neutral color and lightweight fabric for a more elegant look. During the warm weather, feel free to choose a polo shirt instead of a blouse for more casual attire.
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16. Pencil Skirt and Blouse: A pencil skirt and blouse are a classic and respectful option for a celebration of life. Opt for a neutral color and lightweight fabric for a more elegant look. A black pencil skirt could be styled with any color of blouse for both a day or evening event.
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17. Wide-Legged Jumpsuit: A wide-legged jumpsuit in a soft color is a comfortable and stylish option for a celebration of life. It’s versatile enough to be worn for other occasions as well.
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18. Floral Dress: A floral dress in soft colors is a beautiful and feminine option for a celebration of life. It’s respectful and appropriate for the occasion, yet still stylish and elegant.
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19. Tunic Dress: A tunic dress in a soft color is a comfortable and stylish option for a celebration of life. Opt for a lightweight fabric for a more elegant look. Add a pair of leggings or tights underneath if it’s a couple of inches above your knee.
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20. Knit Dress: A knit dress in a soft color is a comfortable and elegant option for a celebration of life. Opt for a simple design and neutral color for a more understated look.
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Choosing the right accessories is also important to complete your look for a celebration of life or memorial service. Here are some ideas to consider:
1. Jewelry: Opt for simple and understated jewelry such as stud earrings, a pendant necklace, or a simple bracelet. Avoid anything too flashy or attention-grabbing.
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2. Scarf: A lightweight scarf in a soft color can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your outfit.
3. Handbag: Choose a small and simple handbag or clutch that complements your outfit. Avoid anything too large or flashy.
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4. Shoes: Opt for comfortable yet stylish shoes such as loafers, ballet flats, or low heels. Avoid anything too high or uncomfortable. Also avoid casual footwear such as flip flops or athletic shoes (sneakers).
5. Hair and Makeup: Keep your hair and makeup simple and natural. Avoid anything too bold or dramatic.
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A celebration of life is a time to honor and celebrate the life of someone who has passed away. Dressing respectfully and appropriately is a way to show your respect and honor the person’s memory. With these outfit ideas, you can look elegant, stylish, and respectful at the same time.
Now that you have a good idea of appropriate attire to wear to a celebration of life service, let’s talk dress code and etiquette. It’s important to be mindful of etiquette during these events, as they can be emotional and sensitive occasions. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Celebration of Life Etiquette
1. Dress appropriately: Dressing respectfully and appropriately for a celebration of life is important. It’s best to wear conservative, neutral-colored clothing that is not too revealing or flashy.
2. Be punctual: Arrive at the event on time or a few minutes early to pay your respects and show support to the family.
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3. Express condolences: Offer your condolences to the family of the deceased. It’s okay to express your sympathy with a hug or a handshake, but always be respectful of the family’s culture or customs.
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4. Respect the family’s wishes: The family may have specific requests or traditions they would like to uphold during the celebration of life. It’s important to be respectful of their wishes and participate in any activities or traditions they may have planned.
5. Avoid discussing sensitive topics: It’s important to be mindful of the feelings of the family members and other guests. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, religion, or controversial issues.
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6. Keep it positive: A celebration of life is a time to remember and celebrate the life of the deceased. Try to keep the conversation positive and focus on happy memories and stories.
7. Be present: During the event, be present and attentive to those around you. Listen to stories and offer support to those who may need it.
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8. Follow up: After the event, follow up with the family to offer support and condolences. This can be done with a phone call, a card, or a personal visit.
Remember, a celebration of life is a time to honor and celebrate the life of someone who has passed away. By following these etiquette tips, you can show your respect and support to the family and create a positive and meaningful experience for everyone involved.
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Do check out my post: Your Guide on What to Wear to a Catholic Funeral for some more ideas for funeral attire.
I also have a post: 8 Outfit Ideas to Wear to a Funeral or Memorial Service. It provides more traditional funeral attire options.
Looking for more ideas on how to style a romper or jumpsuit? Check out my post: The 12 Best Shoes to Wear with a Romper or Jumpsuit.
Until the next post,
XOXO
Theankaraqueen