What is proper attire for a wake?
 

Last night, my best friend's mother died of colon cancer. She was only 50, and she was only diagnosed a month and a half ago. Tomorrow I'm going to the wake, but I don't know what I am supposed to wear? Is just a shirt and tie OK, or should I wear black? I have no idea what to do. Any suggestions?

shirt, tie, suit, dark color. if you don't have it, a conservative shirt/tie/pants is appropriate. no one will care what you're wearing really as long as you're respectful and don't wear a t-shirt/jeans/sneakers (unless that's all you have).

Think "sunday mass" attire.

Just be conservative out of respect. Shirt and a tie is fine, you can wear black or dark. Times have changed. I see people going to wakes dressed like they are going out dancing :confused: Your presence means more than what you wear.

Do you think a burgundy-colored collared shirt, khakis, and a sports coat is ok? I just want to show respect and I want to make sure that I'm dressed appropriately.

A dark grey or blue suit with a white or dark blue dress shirt. Tie should be as dark and muted as possible. No cologne. If you need to carry an umbrella, a logo-free black golf umbrella is appropriate. Sorry about the terrible loss of your friend's mother.

Yeah I say black, darker colors seem to be more respectful, you being there thou means the most, your a good friend :)

as long as it's dark, but I would try to avoid wearing anything redish to a wake/funeral.

My sports coat is tan colored.. Too light? I might need to get a new shirt and stuff tomorrow before I go.

Too light. As other's have said, as dark as possible.

Do you have dark pants and a white shirt? Don't worry if you don't. Just do as conservative as you can. :) Again, it's the respect of going, not what you wear.