What To Wear to a Visitation?

Hey all,

I have a visitation coming up and I’m not sure what to wear. I want to be respectful and appropriate. Any suggestions on what’s suitable for such an occasion? Should I go with something formal or is semi-casual okay?

Opt for something conservative and understated. A semi-casual outfit like a nice blouse with dress pants or a modest dress should be appropriate.

In my experience it varies greatly on the family of the deceased and what they want. Most funerals I’ve been to have specifically stated a dress code required. Most of my wife’s family generally has a “dress like you’re going to a party” kinda vibe.

I usually split the difference if I’m unsure and just wear a grey suit :woman_shrugging:

Although etiquette and dress rules are typically more flexible, it would still be desirable to dress neatly in “business casual.” My spouse would wear a dress, but we generally stick to the more formal side of things. Personally, I wear at least a sport coat.

Visitations take place frequently one or two days in advance, maybe more than once, and occasionally even on the day of the funeral.

I think it’s better to be a little too dressed than too underdressed. You may be able to gauge the family’s formality based on your level of intimacy with them.

Depends on the cultural setting. In the middle of a severely harsh winter, my mother refused to let me wear my coat to my aunt’s visitation. It was a bit of a walk! Why? It was red. Some people wear the deceased’s favorite color. Some people wear white, black, or purple. It all relies.