Im attending a funeral of a friend today - I'm unsure of my religous beliefs so wont be attending the church mass - but will be going to the burial ceromany and wake - just wondering whats best to wear - Ive got a choice of quite a formal black dress (its my birthday too so may have worn it anyway) or be comfy and warm in jeans and jumper (but it might look disrespectful)

my coat is white - but its the only warm enough one I have...

How important is the dresscode for funerals? I know the deceased wouldnt mind - but want to be respectful to the family and other mourners but not sure if dress a bit too "partyish"

opinions gratefully recieved

I'd stick to traditional formal black unless you have heard otherwise from the family. I went to a wake that was in a pub last week, and even in that casual setting everyone was in formal black. The dress may look a bit partyish, but team it with a black tights, formal shoes and a perhaps a black cardigan I'm sure it will look fine. Sorry you have to attend such a sad event on your birthday, but I really would wear the dress. As for the coat issue, white isn't ideal, but if you take it off when you get indoors it will be fine.

Santa Costume, all the way

this is the best advice you could have.
though to be quite honest, at my grandads a couple of months back, i didn't even think about what anyone was wearing. i didn't take notice at all. i just focused on my emotions and not really on anything else. So whether the dress does look abit partyish, i'm sure nobody would think a big deal of it.

Thanks for advice - yeah I think formal be best, just in case, I dont want to upset his family.

cheers