Burial gowns are a type of clothing that can be worn by the deceased, either while they are laying down or when they have been put into their casket. They are designed to be comfortable, soft, and easy to wear with minimal alterations. When choosing an outfit for a loved one, family members should take into account their cultural background, religious beliefs and personal style.
The most important consideration for deciding on burial attire is honoring the wishes of the deceased. Whether they left instructions in their will or expressed their preference to a close friend, it is essential to respect those choices. In many traditions, specific colors and symbols hold meaning, and incorporating those into an outfit can be a meaningful way to pay tribute.
It is also a good idea to consult with funeral directors, who can offer advice and guidance on appropriate options. Funeral directors are skilled at presenting the body in a dignified manner, and they can assist with any special requests or concerns.
There are a number of ways to make a burial garment, including using repurposed materials and sewing them together yourself. For a more natural look, it is usually best to use cottons or linens that are grown, dyed, and woven locally. The fibers should be able to decompose naturally, so that they do not harm the environment in which they are placed.
Several designers have made burial apparel from scratch. Mark Mitchell, for example, has used his background in theatrical costume to create a line of one-of-a-kind custom burial ensembles from luxury fabrics using couture and heirloom-sewing techniques. Australian scholar, artist, and funeral celebrant Pia Interlandi has combined fashion design, fiber science, and forensics in her experiments with water-soluble fibers and clothed pigs, as well as in her line of Garments for the Grave. The Decompiculture Kit she developed in 2015 uses mushroom strains that can remediate toxins found in the human body and decompose it in harmony with the soil in which it will lie.
There are also a number of organizations that offer free burial gown patterns and sewing kits to those who wish to make their own. Newborns in Need, for example, provides a pattern and measurements for babies ranging from one to eleven pounds. Melinda’s Patterns, meanwhile, has a knitting pattern for a burial wrap and lined bonnet that can be downloaded. Several non-profit organizations have been utilizing donated wedding dresses to make burial garments for infants in their care, and the Sew & Tell blog features tutorials for a range of different sizes.