The choice of clothing for a funeral or memorial service can be an emotional part of the planning process. A burial gown is a cloth garment that is worn over the body of the deceased as a final act of love and respect. The attire is typically dark in color, but the specific style can vary depending on the individual’s personality or what the family feels most comfortable with.
If your loved one’s death was unexpected, you may not have much time to shop for a new outfit for them in the days leading up to their funeral. If this is the case, you can check with your local children’s hospital to see if they have any gently used infant clothing that could be used for burial, or contact a charitable organization that makes handmade garments for babies. Many of these organizations accept donations from people with sewing skills who wish to contribute their work.
Burial gowns are also often referred to as funeral dresses, pyjamas or night gowns. They are made from fabrics such as satin, silk, chiffon or velvet. Some have ribbons and bows, and others are simple in design. They are designed to be easy for families to dress their baby in and to protect them while they are being cared for.
Some of the more popular brands of burial gowns are created by a group of volunteers who meet on a regular basis to design and sew these special garments. They are available in a wide range of sizes, styles and colors. Many of the fabrics are embroidered with names and dates, which helps to personalize the gown. They are often created from materials that are both ecologically produced and biodegradable, making them ideal for green funerals.
Whether you decide to buy or make your own burial gown, you should be aware that some funeral homes have their own policies regarding what is allowed in the casket with the body. For example, some will not allow shoes. This is usually to prevent people from taking the shoes after the service and keeping them as a memento of the person, which some feel violates the spirit of the funeral.
While it is perfectly normal to put personal effects into the casket with the deceased, you should be mindful of what your loved ones’ wishes would be. If your mom always wore her favorite fox fur coat and you can’t reconcile your differences, maybe that should stay in the closet for another occasion.
In addition to clothes, you can use other items such as stuffed animals, dolls or blankets to help memorialize your loved one at their funeral. Those who want to take a more natural approach can choose to wear a shroud that is made from linen, which is biodegradable and free of synthetic linings and buttons. This type of garment can be purchased from a number of online vendors. Alternatively, some green funeral sites recommend a burial shroud made from cotton or wool.