What to wear under your clothes at a funeral
Short answer: A funeral is a long and emotional day in which you stand, sit and move with others in dark clothes. A calm, soft layer next to the skin makes the day a little easier to get through.
A day when you do not want to think about clothes
A funeral is not a day when you want to spend energy wondering whether the shirt itches or the collar is tight. The day is often long and includes the church, travelling and time together afterwards. The clothes should be as simple and comfortable as possible, so that you can make room for what truly matters. That is a good reason to choose familiar clothes that have worked before.
Dark clothes and the warmth inside
Dark clothes absorb heat and can feel warm, especially if the church or room is heated. At the same time a cold church can quickly make you shiver. That is why thin layers that can be adjusted are better than one thick one. A soft vest in viscose from bamboo under the shirt lies close without squeezing and can be worn all day. See bamboo shirt for men if you need a shirt in a soft fabric.
Dark colours and light showing through
Under a black or dark shirt a white vest can show through. Choose a dark or black vest under dark clothes. Make sure the sleeves do not peek out and the neckline cannot be seen at the collar. It is the small details that mean you do not have to think about it during the day. Try the clothes on at home the day before, so you know they fit and sit well.
Standing and sitting hours
On the day of a funeral you switch between standing, sitting and walking. That means you should choose clothes that leave room to move. Trousers with a soft waistband and a shirt that does not pull at the shoulders make it easier. Shoes that are already worn in are better than new ones that rub. Many people pack shoes in a bag if they have far to walk, and change on arrival. See the full bamboo range for men for basic pieces in calm colours.
When it is cold outside
Many funerals are held in the colder months, and then it matters to have warm layers without getting too heavy. A thin vest, a shirt, a jumper and a coat are a good starting point. Put the coat on over everything and take it off in the church, so you do not become sweaty. Warm socks and gloves help too. Choose deep pockets for tissues, and keep a small packet in your coat in case you need it.
Care and preparation
The day before, it is nice to have the clothes ready. Hang up the shirt and check that no buttons are missing. Wash viscose from bamboo at 30 to 40 degrees and let it dry on a hanger. Iron the shirt while it is slightly damp. If you need more sets of basic pieces, you can have a look at Bamboo Basics. Get the clothes ready in good time, so you have peace on the day itself and can concentrate on what is important.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear under my shirt at a funeral
A thin, soft vest in a dark colour under dark clothes. It absorbs moisture and sits calmly all day.
How do I dress if the church is cold
Wear several thin layers and a coat you can take off indoors. Warm socks help as well.
Do I need to buy new clothes for the day
That is not necessary. Familiar clothes that fit well are often the most comfortable.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
