How to Pick a Dress Code for Celebration of Life
By considering key factors like the location, event activities, and more, you can choose the appropriate dress code for your loved one’s celebration of life.

A celebration of life is an informal festive event where families and friends gather after cremation service in Biddeford, ME, to celebrate the deceased’s life. Thus, clothing options are less rigid than the formal attire of a traditional funeral.
There’s no pressure to dress up, and appropriate outfits are generally simple, comfortable, and stylish.
If you’re planning a celebration of life for a loved one, here are a few ways to choose the dress code.
Consider the location and time
In general, a celebration of life outfits should be casual. Still, the location is key when it comes to determining the specifics. The right outfit for a celebration of life event outdoors in the summer is not the same for one in the winter.
Similarly, the best outfit or an indoor private event in a local movie theater is not necessarily the same for a concert hall or stadium.
For instance, a sports jersey on pants or jeans is more appropriate for a stadium. But a flowy gown or blouse with a skirt is better suited for a theater or restaurant.
By letting the location and time guide your options, you can pick a convenient dress code for your guests that fits the structure of your event.
Determine the ceremony’s activities
The dress code for a celebration of life also depends on the activities scheduled for the ceremony. There are different possible activities to include in a celebration of life event. Before settling on a dress code, you should know what you and your guests will do.
For instance, the right outfit for a party over water is different for an event that includes a hike. Sporting activities are also common parts of a celebration of life, and each sport has different requirements.
When factoring the activities before choosing the dress code, there are a few questions to ask –
- Will the activity be the main event, or will it be combined with other activities?
- Do you want everyone to participate?
The answers to these questions will help you decide if your guests need single or multiple clothing and how many people it should apply to.
This is key as many of your guests may not have the appropriate attire and need to buy. It’s important to avoid burdening your guests with unplanned purchases when choosing your dress code.
The Type of Celebration
Despite the relaxed nature of a celebration of life, some families prefer to have a formal event. This could be a formal dinner gathering with religious practices.
Formal wear like dark-colored suits and dresses may be more appropriate in cases like this, even if it’s a festive atmosphere.
It could be a highly personalized event, with costumes that highlight the deceased’s passion. And this can be expressed in different forms of clothing.
In all, when it comes to picking a dress code for a celebration of life, the answer is whatever suits how you wish to celebrate your loved one. For example, if they were part of a nudist community, the best way to honor them may be to have your guests wear nothing.
Remember, there are no rules. Only what’s comfortable and celebrates the deceased’s life.
A celebration of life is a popular way to honor a loved one’s legacy after a basic cremation service in Biddeford, ME. Contact us if you need help arranging one, or start your direct cremation arrangements by filling this form.