If you’ve ever had to choose burial attire for a deceased loved one, you know that this can be an emotionally difficult task. However, with a little planning and consideration of various factors, you can find clothing that reflects your loved one’s personality and respects their final journey.
In general, burial clothing tends to lean towards formal attire, but this is a matter of personal preference and cultural customs. For example, a man who preferred to wear suits or dress shirts might like to be buried in his “Sunday best,” while a woman who prefers more casual attire might opt for a favorite outfit or a sweater with sentimental value. It’s also important to consider if your loved one had any specific religious or cultural guidelines to follow when choosing their clothing for burial.
While most people don’t plan their funerals ahead of time, it is a good idea to discuss your wishes and preferences with family members and friends so that they can carry them out for you when the time comes. This is especially true when it comes to your choice of clothing for the ceremony and for the funeral or memorial services.
Many people are surprised to learn that there are several different types of burial clothes available for their loved ones, and it may take a bit of research to find the right option. Burial gowns are a common option, and these can be made from a variety of materials, including linen, cotton, or wool. They’re designed to be simple and easy for a funeral director to dress the body in, and they can be tailored specifically for men or women, with options for both a shroud or a casket cover.
Some burial gowns are designed with false shirt fronts and other embellishments to resemble day wear or evening clothes, while others are intended to be more like a shawl. Both styles are popular and can be used for a viewing or open casket funeral, as well as for cremation. In addition, they can be used for green burials as they’re often composed of natural fibers.
There are also special burial clothes for babies, including small angel gowns and wraps. These can be a comfort to parents and help the baby feel comfortable and secure, and they are an excellent alternative to hospital blankets. One mom who makes these, ANALANE POWELL, says that it can be challenging to find burial clothes for small babies, so she started her own nonprofit organization, MOV Memorial Gowns, to make these garments. Her group modifies wedding dress patterns, recruits local seamstresses to cut and sew, and collects donations of fabric from the community.
If you are looking for a burial gown for your loved one, it’s important to know your options and to ask your funeral professionals for guidance. Taking the time to carefully consider your loved one’s style, their religious beliefs, and any special requests or requirements can make this decision a much more peaceful process.