To achieve formality in attire, dark dress clothes are in order. Dark suits, comprising of jackets and pants, dark shoes, a dark tie, and crisp and clean dress shirt for men and boys is best. A tidy and clean haircut and well-groomed facial hair is also in order. For women, again, dark clothes (navy, deep hues of purple, grays, and blacks) are appropriate. Conservative dresses and suits are considered formal. Minimal and subtle accessories are a good choice such as a small dark handbag and pearl necklace. Modest in height and comfortable shoes are important, as the service may be lengthy and involve steps or traversing over grounds at a cemetery. Young girls should wear similar yet age appropriate attire. If you still have questions concerning your dress for a particular service, contact the service provider (funeral home or service provider) or family or mutual friends of the deceased to inquire about appropriate dress. Today, there are many types of funerals and memorials. Services are influenced by region, culture, and traditions. In the western world, many occasions thought to be formal events requiring formal attire, have now become more casual. However, some cultures still require a level of formality when conducting services for the deceased. How do we define formal? We can pay formal respect, meaning offering condolences according to requirements, customs, or traditions. And, we can attend a formal occasion marked by an elaborate ceremony or social observance. In this case, which sometimes involves a funeral, we wear formal attire. Before considering what constitutes formal attire, remember the rule of thumb for dress at any funeral or memorial service is to dress tasteful and conservative. This is especially important if there is a religious service at the location of the service. Revealing clothes are not acceptable and some churches prefer that shoulders and knees be covered. The following applies generally to common funeral services and Christian burials in the U.S.