When a loved one passes away, it’s common for family members to want to bury them in something that represents them and their life. Traditionally, people would dress their deceased in a dress or suit for the service, but nowadays families can choose from all sorts of outfits. We’ve heard of people dressing their loved ones in Harley-Davidson jackets and classic cars, but what about a dress they always wore at weddings or a sweater they couldn’t leave home without?
It was in the aftermath of her son’s stillbirth that Hazel Jones started sewing clothes to be buried with babies. She uses her workshop, which used to be part of her living room, to cut down formal gowns and other items that she would otherwise donate. She found that there were services to provide burial clothes for babies, but not many outfits small enough to fit the tiniest preemies. Jones says that she has made hundreds of outfits so far and is working on even more. In addition to gowns, she has sewed tiny knitted caps, diapers and “Angel Pockets” for the tiniest preemies.
She has also been able to use her sewing skills to help families of people who have died as the result of natural causes, as well as for refugees from war-torn countries. When she began helping refugee families, they often didn’t have a dress for their sons and daughters because they were born so early. So Wright started using dresses from her own collection that were blue or beige and adding ribbons to make outfits for boys.
While it is fine to bury a loved one with certain accessories, it’s important to remember that these are items they will never wear again and it’s best not to add anything too heavy because it can put strain on the body as it decomposes. The funeral director will be able to advise on what is and is not suitable to bury with the casket.
In addition, it’s good to consider any religious or cultural guidelines the person would have wanted adhered to at their burial. Some religions, like Catholicism, have strict guidelines about what can be worn, and some cultures prefer lighter colors for funeral clothing.
A shroud can be used for both natural and green burials. It’s made from linen, which is a sustainable fiber and biodegradable. It’s also a light material that allows for a more detailed look at the body. There are other natural and green burial outfits available on the market, and most funeral homes will have a selection of these to choose from as well.
Some funeral homes will offer a funeral gown that is similar to a pyjama, and this can be very comforting for the deceased’s loved ones. It will be important to talk with your funeral director about what you’d like for your loved one before they die. Ultimately, it’s up to the family to decide what will bring peace and comfort during this time.