Written by Ben Chuang
Serving as a pallbearer is both an honor and a solemn responsibility, with a rich history dating back to the early 1700s. As a visible part of the funeral procession, pallbearers should dress with dignity and respect.
Choosing the appropriate attire not only reflects the formality of the occasion but also ensures that you present yourself in a way that aligns with traditional funeral customs.
In this guide, we’ll cover what pallbearers should wear, including types of suits, footwear choices, and considerations for what pallbearers wear in different seasons and cultures.
Understanding the Role of a Pallbearer
Before selecting your attire, it’s important to understand pallbearer duties. Pallbearers carry the coffin, either from the hearse to the funeral service or to the burial site.
Appropriate funeral attire is expected since this is a position of respect. Pallbearers also provide symbolic support to the grieving family, signifying honor and remembrance for the deceased.
General Dress Code for Pallbearers
The standard dress code for pallbearers is formal and conservative. The most traditional choices are a dark-colored suit, a white dress shirt, and a slim tie.
Black is the preferred color, but a tie with a dark navy suit, charcoal, or deep gray suit are also acceptable. Avoid bright colors, bold patterns, or casual resort clothing, as they may be considered inappropriate for the occasion.
Dressing properly ensures that you maintain the solemnity and decorum required for the event.
Suit Recommendations for Pallbearers
A well-fitted suit is the ideal attire for a pallbearer. If you do not own a suit, one of your best blazers for men paired with formal slacks can also be an appropriate choice. Shirts that are breathable yet structured, ensuring you look polished while remaining comfortable during the service.
If attending multiple funeral events, such as a wake, a versatile black suit can serve multiple purposes while adhering to the black tie optional dress code. Having a properly tailored suit also ensures that you present a neat and professional appearance for your pallbearer duties.
Shirt and Tie Choices
A white dress shirt is the most appropriate choice for a pallbearer. Light-colored shirts in soft shades, such as light gray shirt or light blue dress shirt, may also be acceptable if they match the tone of the funeral. Ties should be solid or subtly patterned in neutral colors, such as a black, gray tie, or navy tie.
Avoid novelty or brightly colored ties, as they may be seen as disrespectful in a funeral setting. Your type of tie should complement the formality of the suit and maintain the overall conservative aesthetic.
Footwear Considerations
Since pallbearers are required to walk and carry the casket, shoes should be formal, sturdy, and comfortable. Black or dark brown dress shoes, such as Oxfords or derbies, are the best options. Shoes should be polished and leather shoes well-cleaned.
Avoid white sneakers, sandals, or overly casual footwear at funeral arrangements, as they do not align with the formality of the role. Proper footwear is especially important when navigating uneven terrain at cemeteries or outdoor funeral sites.
Seasonal and Weather-Appropriate Attire
Depending on the time of year, pallbearers should dress accordingly while maintaining a respectful appearance for the funeral service. For summer outfits, lightweight wool or cotton-blend suits can help keep you cool. For winter outfits, layering with a dark overcoat, scarf, and gloves is recommended.
If rain is expected, a black umbrella and one of these best Chelsea boots can help keep you dry without compromising your formal look. Consideration of the climate ensures that you remain comfortable and focused on your duties without distraction.
Cultural and Religious Considerations
Different cultures and religions may have specific expectations for pallbearer attire. For example, some Buddhist or Hindu funerals may call for white clothing instead of black. In some military or veteran funerals, pallbearers may wear dress uniforms.
It’s always best to check with the family or funeral director to ensure your attire is appropriate for the specific service you’re attending. Respecting cultural norms is essential in demonstrating compassion and honoring the deceased per their beliefs.
Accessories and Grooming
Minimal and understated men's accessories are best for pallbearers. A simple 38mm watch, cufflinks, or a tie clip can add a refined touch without drawing attention. Sunglasses should only be worn if the funeral is outdoors and bright sunlight is an issue.
Personal grooming is also important; hair should be neatly styled, and facial hair should be manscaped and groomed. Avoid applying colognes strongly or scented products, as they may be disruptive in a solemn setting.
A clean, polished appearance reflects the respect and dignity expected of a deceased person in such a role.
Alternatives for Those Without a Suit
If you do not own a suit, a dark sport coat paired with a more formal type of pants and a tie is an acceptable alternative. Some funeral homes or families may provide guidance on what to wear, and in some cases, renting a suit may be an option.
If financial constraints prevent you from purchasing formal attire, reaching out to a friend or relative to borrow appropriate clothing is a considerate solution. The key is to ensure that your outfit remains dignified and appropriate for the occasion.
Final Etiquette Tips for Pallbearers
In addition to dressing appropriately, pallbearers should conduct themselves with grace and respect. Arrive early, listen to instructions from the funeral director, and move in unison with the other pallbearers. Keep conversations minimal and maintain a solemn demeanor.
If unsure about any aspect of your role, don’t hesitate to ask for guidance. Your presence and conduct contribute significantly to the funeral’s atmosphere, offering support and reverence to the grieving family.
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Final Thoughts
Dressing appropriately as a pallbearer is a key part of fulfilling this important role with dignity. A well-fitted dark suit, dress shoes, and minimal accessories ensure that you maintain a respectful appearance.
By following traditional funeral etiquette and considering the family's wishes, you can honor the deceased and support their loved ones during this solemn occasion.
For more guidance on funeral attire, you may also want to explore related topics such as what to wear to a wake or memorial service. Choosing the right attire and conducting yourself with reverence will allow you to carry out your responsibilities with the respect they deserve.
FAQs About Pallbearer Attire
Is there a dress code for pallbearers?
Yes, there is generally a dress code for pallbearers, as they play an important role in the funeral service. Pallbearers are typically expected to wear formal, dark-colored attire, such as a black or navy suit, a white dress shirt, and a conservative tie.
However, some family members may have specific requests or cultural traditions that influence the dress code, so it’s best to confirm with the family or funeral director beforehand.
What is the funeral etiquette for pallbearers?
Pallbearer etiquette includes arriving on time, dressing appropriately, and conducting themselves with dignity and respect throughout the funeral service. They should listen to instructions from the funeral director, move in unison when carrying the casket, and remain solemn and composed at the final resting place.
Additionally, pallbearers should be mindful of the grieving family, offering quiet support without drawing attention to themselves. If unsure about any part of the role, it’s always best to ask for guidance in advance.
Do you have to wear a black suit as a pallbearer?
While a black suit is a traditional choice that pallbearers wear, it is not always a strict requirement. Dark-colored suits in navy, charcoal, or deep gray are generally acceptable, as long as they maintain a formal and respectful appearance at the funeral home.
Some funerals may have specific dress guidelines, particularly for a traditional funeral service, so checking with the immediate family, or funeral director is recommended.
How much weight does a pallbearer have to lift?
The weight a pallbearer needs to lift varies depending on the casket and how many pallbearers there are. Standard caskets can weigh between 150 to 300 pounds empty, and with the deceased inside, the total weight can range from 300 to 600 pounds or more.
Typically, when six pallbearers carry the coffin, each person may be responsible for lifting 50 to 100 pounds. If weight is a concern, some funerals use honorary pallbearers or a wheeled bier to assist with transport before the memorial service.
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