A Serious Fashion Statement: What to Wear for Sad Occasions?

On Memorial Day, there may be a few serious ceremonies before the barbecues begin, and  the question arises: what to wear for grave occasions? The easy answer would be to dress the way one would to a funeral, but not all grave occasions call for that degree of severity or that much black. The unveiling of a headstone or a monument, a ceremony honoring veterans or fallen soldiers, an event commemorating the anniversary of a tragedy are quite serious, but one can slightly more flexible with fashion choice than one would in the immediate wake of tragedy.

However, it is important not to strike an overly whimsical note. Think classics and dark colors when choosing fashion designs for grave occasions. A tailored suit with bright gold buttons in navy blue, charcoal or black and white along with smoky colored stockings and spectator pumps create an elegant and dignified look that strikes a serious mature note and yet can look striking and fashionable.

The heat may be a factor that may cause one to shun dark colors for fashion choices when attending a grave occasion in summer. In this case, depending on how grave the occasion is, one could get away with khaki, pearl, and tawny colors. A pastel pink set off with a smoky grey could be quite appropriate and feminine, accompanied by a classic pearl earrings and a simple silver pendant. Browse through the fine diamond selections from Jade Trau, who creates dignified looks that suit even the most serious events.

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A grave occasion is not the time to be too experimental with jewelry designs, but classic adornments fit the look quite well. If you are partial to large jewelry, try a solid silver clasp bracelet, a shiny silver necklace that will grace your neck in brilliance or a classic silver or gold ring with a precious gem or a pearl in the center. Avoid noisy bangles, fussy accessories or overly bright floral looks, but stick with the classics in accessories as well as in attire.

What about a sailor suit dress combination for a Memorial Day ceremony? This could work if you think classic rather than cute and watch the hemlines. If it is a grave occasion, a sailor suit dress could work if the design is significantly dignified and the accessories are in classic good taste.  A grave occasion doesn't mean letting fashion concerns slide, and it is possible to make an impression while paying your respects.