Advice needed for funeral wear

[RD Evans]

Dear Great Rabble,

I have a funeral to attend for my grandfather on Friday, and will also be piping Amazing Grace and possibly a few other tunes at the graveside.

My question is on what should I wear. I basically have 3 options

1. Full Dress 1A (doublet, plaid, and accoutrement, horsehair sporran)
2. Black Argyle Jacket (with or without waistcoat, black fur sporran)
3. Lovat Blue Tweed Argyle Jacket without a waistcoat (I just have the jacket).

We are having a family dinner at 1200 with the services starting at 1400 (2:00 pm). The dinner prior to has me leaning against the full dress option. There will be full military honors at the graveside.

What option would you find most appropriate? If I was piping for a non family funeral then I would be wearing option 1.

Thanks for your input and advice.

[KyleAisteach]

First and foremost, I'm very sorry for your loss.

I would personally avoid military dress unless it's a military funeral or unless the deceased was a veteran. However, formal and black are appropriate if you have an official function in the funeral (which you do), so my instinct is the black argyle with waistcoat.

[Liam]

My sympathy as well for your loss. As you are a family member And there is a family event prior, I would go with either 2 or 3 and likely 3 with subdued hose (black or grey) black flashes, white shirt and a black tie. You however know what your Grandfather might have liked and what your family might expect so you are the best to judge. What ever you choose, I'm sure your Grandfather would have been proud.

[Tarheel]

Jock has a strong point for protocol. The music will be a lasting memory for everyone there, so small details may be overlooked by most if circumstances don't work to your favor (time constraints or weather, etc.)

I'm reminded of the playing of taps during the television airing at JFK's grave site. The Soldier missed a note, everyone thought it was due to the emotion of the moment, no one remembers what he was wearing. That one sour note seemed the perfect touch for every American.

[GMan]

Blessings on you and your family.

[RD Evans]

Thanks again for your thoughts.

Jock - No, I'm not serving in the military anymore. I was a Field Artillery Officer during my time in the Army, but now I work as a firefighter (where the full dress uniform comes from).

Thanks to all again for your wisdom and insight to those of us newer to the arena.

[Tarheel]

As Liam and Kyle have suggested, you will know what your family wants, but first let it be you honoring your grandfather and family. My sympathies for your loss.

[TRWXXA]

My condolences to you and your family.

I like #2, accessorized as Liam suggests. It would fit the solemnity of the occasion, and have a military-like look that would tie in with his military burial.

However, it is your family. And you would know best what they would appreciate.

[cck]

It is the funeral of a close relative. I'd wear the Black Argyle jacket and a black or dark tie.

[Destin_scot]

My condolences to you and your family, as well.

As your grandfather likely served in one of the branches of the military, I thank your family for his service to our country.

As to attire: I concur with option #2 or #3, leaning more towards #2 and accessorized as mentioned.