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Facts You Should Notice When Choosing Dress For Funeral Mass
Catholic rites for the dead are quite formal and filled with ritualistic prayers and recitations. For those who are not part of this religion, there may be some confusion as to how they should behave when attending these services. There are some general guidelines about how one should dress when going to a funeral mass.
When a Catholic passes away, the traditional services consist of three parts, the second of which is known as the Requiem. During this event the deceased is honored and their soul is prayed for and comfort is provided to all who are grieving. The occasion rarely lasts longer than an hour and a half.
Religious based events require that individuals show respect in the way that they dress. Casual daily wear like blue jeans, sweats, shorts, tees and tanks are inappropriate for this type of occasion. The basic rules of etiquette state that clothing for these services should be conservative and such as one would don for a business meeting or church.
Black and neutral toned suits with ties, or button up collared shirts with dress pants are the recommended clothing choices for men. Ladies are requested to opt for attire with hemlines that come below the knee when one is in both the seated and standing positions, or to wear a classic business pantsuit. There should be no bright or pastel colors, bold or floral patterns, cleavage or uncovered shoulders.
This is not a service where men are allowed to wear hats inside the church. The rules are different for women, who are encouraged to place some type of covering over their heads. As most non-Catholics are likely to be unfamiliar with this practice, many parishes and chapels often offer scarves or veils to ladies who do not have one.
Catholic services have some ritualistic actions that are performed during the proceedings such as the kissing of the priest's hand, statues and icons. Out of respect and courtesy, lipstick should be well blotted beforehand to avoid leaving marks behind. Modesty and conservativeness are the keys to properly dressing for a funeral mass.
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