Dear Lady Melbourne,
What do you think is appropriate dress for a funeral? Do you have to wear black?
Annie, Melbourne
Dear Annie,
This may seem like a fairly straight forward kind of deal, but it’s not the first time someone has asked me so perhaps this is one of those things that can stump even those of us who think we know it all when it comes to dressing for occasions.
When you present yourself at somber occasions, make sure that what you wear is suitably deferential and sober. Although black is not longer obligatory, it is always suitable as is any dark colour and preferably presented in a formal tone, such as a suit. Steer absolutely clear of bright colours, flamboyant jewellery, coloured hosiery and over the top make up- unless of course it is the will of the deceased.
LM