Best Footwear to Wear to a Funeral

Baue Funeral Home • November 6, 2022

Many people may know what type of outfit to wear to a funeral, but what footwear is most appropriate? Click here as Baue Funeral Home shares the best options.

funeral home in Saint Charles, MO

When attending a funeral held at a church or funeral home in Saint Charles, MO. you might be wondering what to wear. After all, you want to make sure you are dressed appropriately to show respect to not only the deceased but the grieving family. One aspect of the outfit that both men and women can feel unsure about is what footwear is best. We are going to dive into some of the best options for both men and women to wear to a funeral. 


Best Women’s Shoes for a Funeral 


From pumps to slides, women have a wide range of options when it comes to footwear. Because of this, it can be easy to be overwhelmed and confused about the best options. To play it safe, it is best to go with one of the following choices: 


  • Pilgrim Shoe - These shoes are very basic and typically made from black leather or imitation leather. They are considered appropriate for the church as their heel is lower and thicker. They also feature a buckle on the side. 
  • Mary-Jane - These shoes are very popular and have a classic look that never goes out of style. They are also versatile enough to be worn with many styles of clothing. Mary Janes feature a single thicker strap across the top of the shoe and a round toe. 
  • Ballet Flats - These shoes are inspired by the flats that ballet dancers wear and are very simple and understood. There is no heel and also no buckles, straps, or other adornments making them a nice choice for a solemn event. 
  • Pump - Wearing heels to a funeral is appropriate as long as some guidelines are followed. First, the heel should be an appropriate height. For example, a high stiletto would not be a good choice. Also, keep the pump to a closed-toe option as open-toe shoes are viewed as more casual and not the best option. 


Best Men’s Shoes for a Funeral 


While men may not have quite the many options that women do when it comes to footwear, they do still have several options. Some of the best choices for a funeral are: 


  • Brogue Shoes - These shoes get their name from their multiple pieces of leather and decorative elements. They are typically low-heeled shoes but can also be found in a boot. 
  • Cap-Toe Shoe - This style of shoe is characterized by its shape created by the horizontal stitching that is placed across the toe. 
  • Ribbon Pump Loafer - While loafers are generally thought of as less formal shoes, certain types, such as the ribbon pump loafer are more dressy and certainly appropriate for a funeral. 


Considerations When Selecting Footwear 



Of course, you want your footwear to match your outfit, but there are other considerations to take into account. One main one is the environment. If you plan on attending the graveside service, then for women, a flat may be a better choice than a pump so it is easier to walk in the cemetery. Also, for both men and women, consider things like the weather and if there is mud, puddles, etc. 


As directors of the funeral homes in Saint Charles, MO., we understand it can be stressful attending a funeral. If you have any further questions or need help in making arrangements, please feel free to contact us at any time. 


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