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Newborns are small and delicate, so they need special care when it comes to their clothes. A good baby clothing brand prioritizes environmental and social responsibility by using organic materials, reducing their ecological impact, and providing healthy products that will not irritate the skin. These companies also use safer dyes to ensure that babies do not get any harmful chemicals on their skin. They are also concerned about the welfare of workers involved in production processes. This way, they can make sure that the people who work on their clothes are treated fairly and well. The best brands offer high-quality and durable baby clothes that are long-lasting. They are designed to withstand spills, infant spit-up, and other messes. In addition, they are made from soft materials that do not irritate the skin. They are also made with breathable fabrics to prevent heat buildup in hot weather. This way, the baby will feel comfortable and warm all day and night. Many parents are concerned about the quality of their newborn’s clothes. They want to choose a quality brand that provides a range of functional clothing options, including dresses, bodysuits, sleepwear, and outfits. They also need to consider their budget and the number of pieces they want to buy. It is important to remember that babies grow very quickly, so they may outgrow their clothes in a short period of time. It is a good idea to purchase a few sizes of each outfit so that they can be worn again. Most new parents know that organic cotton is the ideal material for baby clothing. Organic cotton is soft and durable, and it is naturally hypoallergenic. It also resists shrinking, pilling, and fading. This means that the clothes will last longer and be less expensive in the long run. In addition, they will be able to be worn and passed down by future siblings or friends. Babies are delicate, so they should be dressed in soft and breathable materials. Tight clothing can restrict their breath, which can cause discomfort and lead to rashes. It is also important to keep in mind that a newborn’s skin is sensitive, so it is essential to use only mild detergents when washing their clothes. In the colder months, the most important thing is to keep the baby warm. The best way to do this is by wearing a few layers of clothing, a thick hat, and mittens. It is also important to protect the baby’s bare skin with a coat or zip-up down snowsuit when going outside. A baby romper is a one-piece suit that covers both the top and bottom of the body, making it easy to dress and undress. Baby bodysuits are similar, but they have fasteners between the legs for diaper changes. Newborn footie pajamas are another option, as they combine comfort with warmth by covering the feet. Some of these garments even have attached mittens to help keep the baby’s hands from scratching themselves.

Choosing attire for your loved one’s viewing and funeral is an important personal choice that is deeply meaningful. This can be a complex decision that requires you to consider your loved one’s preferences, culture, and religious beliefs. Ultimately, your selection will be a final gesture of love and respect. Burial gowns are a way to pay tribute to your loved one and give them dignity during their final journey. Whether you’re looking for an outfit that matches their style or something that will honor their cultural heritage, there are many options to choose from. If you’re not sure where to begin, you can lean on the guidance of professional funeral directors who are trained to offer compassionate care and guidance during this difficult time. Historically, funeral attire has been designed to resemble day wear or evening clothing. For example, a man might choose a suit and tie and a woman might choose a formal dress or blouse. Today, however, funeral professionals can provide burial outfits in a range of natural fibers, which are suitable for green funerals and woodland burial grounds. Some outfits are even designed to look like a shroud. If your loved one wished to be dressed in a particular way for their final journey, it’s important to honour those wishes. Whether you have their written request or not, honouring those requests will help to ensure that your loved one is treated with the respect they deserve. Some faith traditions have specific guidelines for burial clothing. It is important to consult with a religious leader or clergy member to ensure that your choices comply with these religious customs. In addition, certain colors and symbols may hold special significance. For instance, if your loved one was an animal lover, you might want to consider a gown or coat made from fur or silk. You might also want to consider an outfit that is designed to be embroidered with their name or a special message. Another consideration is the weight of the garment you choose. The clothes you select should be light enough to fit into the casket without adding too much weight. In some cases, heavier clothing can interfere with the body’s movement and cause discomfort. While it’s tempting to add jewelry to an outfit, keep in mind that it will likely be buried with the body and will not be returned to your family after the funeral. Additionally, some pieces of jewelry will not lie well on the body while laying down and could end up misaligning or getting lost in the process. For infants who will be stillborn or die in the NICU, volunteers such as Ardath Hinds of Whittle Springs, Tenn., have been sewing beautiful burial garments for them. She and her team have sewed hundreds of tiny outfits for infants that will never come home. They are called Angel Gowns and include dresses, bonnets and a blanket. “They need this at such a tragic time,” she says.

After the guests leave and the gifts have been unwrapped, you might still find yourself staring at your wedding dress hanging in your closet. Instead of letting it gather dust, why not donate your gown? It’s a great way to give back, help someone else and make the world a better place. Plus, you can even get a tax deduction. If you don’t want to have your dress go unused, there are many charities that will take it off your hands. Some resell the dresses while others use the proceeds to support their missions. Some of the organizations that accept gown donations include the following: The Brides Project This bridal boutique with a heart in Ann Arbor, Michigan, sells donated wedding dresses to raise funds for free programming for families effected by cancer. The organization also provides high school girls with retail work experience. Angel Gowns for the Little Ones This nonprofit organization uses wedding dresses to create tiny baby gowns for infants who pass away before their first birthdays. The organization accepts donated dresses and also accepts donations from designers who want to contribute to the cause. Dreams in White This charity aims to provide wedding dresses and other accessories for low-income women who cannot afford the cost of a traditional wedding. Donated gowns are resold at discounted prices and the profits are used to fund the organization’s mission. The organization has been in operation since 2008 and has donated 28,000 dresses. Cherie Sustainable Bridal This Maryland-based company is a green bridal store that sells preowned gowns and accessories. Proceeds from the sale of the dresses are invested in international non-profits that empower vulnerable young women to choose an independent future for themselves. The company also focuses on reducing its carbon footprint by using recycled materials to make its dresses. The White Dress by the Shore This Massachusetts-based wedding dress rental company recycles and reuses gowns, which are restyled by its seamstresses to reflect new trends. The wedding dress rental business has a variety of styles available and offers a flexible return policy. The White Dress by the Shore has several locations in New England and offers a variety of rental packages to suit your needs. It also provides a number of customization options, including lace and embellishment upgrades. Before donating your wedding dress, contact the organization to see what they need and what their guidelines are. Some organizations will require that your dress be professionally cleaned. Others will not. Most of the charities that resell gowns will provide a receipt for your donation. You can use this as a tax deduction when you file your taxes, according to Zola. If you’re planning to donate your wedding gown, it’s a good idea to inspect the dress for any major rips and tears. If you notice any, have a seamstress repair them in advance of the donation. Lastly, wash or dry clean the dress and pack it up to ship it off in its container. This is especially important during the pandemic, as the COVID-19 virus can linger on fabrics and items for days.

For parents who have suffered the unthinkable loss of their newborn, a small measure of peace may come with the gift of a beautiful angel gown made from a donated wedding dress. Each gown is lovingly crafted by hand with so much love to honor the life of a baby taken far too soon. The nonprofit NICU Helping Hands accepts 15,000 wedding dresses each year, which seamstresses transform into gowns for photo shoots and funeral services. The organization keeps a waitlist of families who have lost their baby and then matches them with nearby seamstresses. One of those seamstresses is Judi Gaber, a nurse who works with families who have suffered the same unfathomable loss that her own family experienced. The grandmother of six and mother of two says the experience is “so emotional” when she sees the parents whose babies are born too soon, especially when they receive their angel gown. It is for that reason, that Gaber volunteered to turn wedding dresses into gowns that she hopes will bring some comfort to the bereaved parents she works with. Gaber has helped care for countless families who have had to say goodbye to their tiny infants due to miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS or a traumatic birth injury. Last year, Gaber spotted an advertisement for the Little Angel Gowns program in a newspaper and knew she had to get involved. The Michigan-based non-profit turns donated wedding gowns into burial clothing for infants who don’t make it home from the hospital. Founder Dawn Lafferty has built an impressive team of women and men who turn wedding dresses into tiny wraps, gowns, headbands and hats for infants too small to wear regular newborn clothes. The sewing team is comprised of a group of retired and active community members who volunteer their time to the cause. The work is done by a team of highly skilled pattern designers, seamstresses and embroiderers. Lafferty and her team have been creating around 7,000 angel gowns for the past year and a half, which are delivered directly into the hands of grieving families in the hospital. Each gown takes between 30 and 60 hours to make, but for those who are interested in getting involved, the organization is looking for more seamstresses. It’s also accepting donations of wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses or formal dresses in light shades of pink, blue and purple. The International Program allows donors to follow their dress as it makes its way to a developing country (Guatemala is currently the country where dresses are going) and virtually meet with the seamstress who is working on the gowns you have donated. You will be able to see the process of making the garments and hear about how it is impacting her life and her community.

A child funeral—also called a visitation, wake, memorial service, homegoing service or celebration of life—is a ceremony that honors your child and helps everyone in the family process their grief. A service can be held in a chapel or home, place of worship, or at the graveside, depending on your preferences and your child’s needs. Some children choose not to attend a funeral or other services, which is completely normal and okay. If you decide not to bring your child, it is a good idea to designate a friend or family member to take care of them during the services and activities. This allows you to fully participate in the service and gives your child someone they can turn to if they become uncomfortable. If you choose to bring your child to a visitation or funeral, prepare them beforehand by explaining what will happen. If they are old enough to understand, you can also ask them what they want or need from the service. Some children like to help plan the service, so let them be a part of it in any way they are comfortable. This may include writing or decorating a tribute poster, choosing music or readings for the service and/or choosing flowers or gifts. Describe the casket to your child so that they know what to expect. It is helpful to use pictures or videos of the deceased to help them better understand what they will see. Many parents find that it is comforting for their child to see their sibling lying in the casket, especially if they were able to select the outfit their sibling was wearing. It is important to remind your child that their emotions are normal during this difficult time. If they start to show signs of being overwhelmed, encourage them to play or go to the bathroom. It is also helpful to explain that other people may be crying or having a hard time, too. It is a good idea to bring some quiet toys or books to help them during this time. Consider having a children’s room during the services, where kids can color, play or make a card for their sibling. This is a great way to keep them busy and give you a break from the crowd of people who may be grieving. If your child is buried or cremated, you can have a special headstone that is engraved with their name, birth and death dates and a graphic or photo of them. It’s a great way to remember them forever and share their story with the generations that come after them. If your child is a baby or toddler, you may wish to have them buried or urned at the same time so that you can hold a memorial service for both of them at the same time. This will be particularly helpful for young siblings who can’t quite grasp the concept of death. You can also record the memorial service for them so they have it to watch when they are older.

Newborn clothes aren’t just for cuteness; they’re a necessity to keep your little one warm and comfortable during their first year. Start with a solid base of bodysuits and onesies, then add layers to create outfits for any occasion. The right mix-and-match pieces can make your baby look like a mini trendsetter in the making. Depending on how often you’ll be doing laundry, you might want to double the amount of newborn essentials in the list below. If you are planning to do laundry more frequently, consider stocking up on clothing items that can be worn more than once before washing (like reversible jackets or dual-sided bibs). For daytime wear, consider rompers for a sunny outing. They’re a comfortable option for any weather, and come in a variety of styles, from ruffled shoulders to sweet prints. They also pair well with baby hats and socks to protect your bundle of joy from sun, wind, and cold. At night, you’ll need some footie pajamas to keep your newborn warm from head to toe. These are similar to bodysuits except they have built-in feet to prevent overheating during the night. For extra warmth, you may also consider a blanket for swaddling and a cozy sleeper gown. For playdates and family outings, dresses and skirts will provide the comfort and style you’re looking for. From twirl-worthy florals to baby girl stripes and black-and-white prints, your little lady can sport these trendy outfits with confidence. You can find stylish gender neutral baby clothes from brands like Colored Organics, which features a line of contemporary clothing with cool colors and prints, including skulls, stars and stripes. The brand also partners with charitable organizations to support families in need. Another popular option is Hanna Andersson, which has been a favorite of parents for decades. The company offers print-forward designs that can work for little boys or girls and is backed by the GOTS certification to ensure that every step of the production process is eco-friendly. They’re also partnered with beloved pop culture franchises and characters that are a hit for both baby girls and boys. Babies aren’t known for their patience, so don’t be afraid to shop around for the best price on the items you need most. You’ll often find deals on the newest styles and sizes from major retailers, but you can also look for gently-used baby clothing on sites like Poshmark and ThredUP to save money. Aside from price, it’s important to think about what you’ll be using the clothes for. Will you be using them for photos? Will you need them for a specific occasion, like a family portrait or a wedding? If you plan to use them for special occasions, consider splurging on a few designer pieces. These are typically made of higher quality fabrics and have details like matching parent versions to create a coordinated ensemble. They also tend to be more durable and can be passed down to future babies.

In many cultures around the world, people are buried or entombed in clothes that have special meaning to them. These garments, known as burial outfits or funeral attire, may be something that a loved one was wearing at the time of their death, a favourite garment, or an item of clothing with a sentimental value. These clothes can be worn for viewing or in a coffin during a funeral service. It is a common practice for families to choose an outfit that reflects the person’s lifestyle, culture or personal style. Choosing clothes for a funeral can be a distressing and emotional experience. In addition to considering your deceased friend or relative’s personal preferences, you will also need to take into account their religious beliefs and any wishes the family might have. In most cases, funeral directors will provide a range of suitable outfits that can be worn in the casket. While these are typically formal outfits, some families choose more casual clothing to align with the deceased’s personality or cultural background. Burial gowns are typically made from soft or satin-like fabrics. They resemble smart night gowns, pyjamas or dressing gowns, and they are available in both men’s and women’s styles as well as a unisex option. They are usually designed to be easily dressed over the body by the funeral director, and they can be purchased in a wide range of appealing fabrics and colours. In addition, a variety of styles are available for different types of funerals, from traditional suits to floral print dresses that are often worn at woodland burial sites. Baby bereavement gowns are designed to fit infants who die before, during or after birth. They are typically white and resemble Baptismal or Christening dresses. They are available in a range of sizes including small baby bereavement gowns to suit micro-preemies (babies born less than one pound at full term). A funeral dress is a long, flowing garment that resembles a skirt or a dress. It’s generally adorned with lace or embroidery, and it comes in a range of designs for both girls and boys. It can be paired with matching bloomers or trousers, and it is available in a variety of materials, from soft cotton to velvet. A large selection of funeral dresses can be found online, and some are even designed to look like wedding dresses or evening gowns. Some people who have a green burial choose to wear natural fibres such as calico, which is an eco-friendly alternative to cotton. This type of natural shroud is suitable for burial in a natural cemetery or woodland graveyard. A calico shroud is also commonly used to dress people who are being cremated. For a green funeral, you can also buy a burial shroud that is designed to be naturally biodegradable. It’s typically made from bamboo or a plant-based material, such as hessian, and it is available in a range of attractive colours. These shrouds can be customised with a message and are popular amongst people who want to minimise their environmental impact or for those who don’t want to use a traditional casket.

A funeral is a time for mourning and can be difficult for children to attend. However, it is a necessary part of the grieving process and may help them come to terms with the death. It can also help them say goodbye to their loved one in a meaningful way and move on to a new chapter of their lives. Children are often surprised and confused by death, and they need to be given clear and honest information to deal with the situation. If you decide to include them in the funeral, be sure to appoint an adult with whom they are familiar to care for them during the service and afterwards. It is also helpful to let them know that they can take a break or leave the services at any time if they need to. Explaining what they can expect at the funeral is important, especially for younger children. This includes how long the service will last, where it will take place, who they might see there and what to expect if they are going to view the body. It is also helpful to talk about what will happen after the service, whether the casket will be buried or cremated. Explain that the person who died will be no longer alive and cannot feel anything, including pain. In general, older children are better able to understand and cope with the loss of a loved one and may be more willing to attend the funeral. However, their grief can be complicated by many other factors and they may still need your support and guidance as they navigate the services. If you decide to involve them in the funeral, it is also a good idea to ask them what they would like to do. They may want to see their sibling’s body, for example, and it is important to discuss this with them ahead of time to make sure that they are comfortable with the decision. If they do choose to see their sibling’s body, it is helpful to reassure them that the body is fully dressed and that they will be safe. Having siblings participate in the funeral service, such as reading a poem or story, or writing a letter, can help them feel close and included. If you are having a service at your home, a funeral home or some other venue, you can ask for a kids room to be set up where children can color or play while the adults continue the service. You can also have them write a message to the deceased, which you can put in the casket or with the urn. Older children can be honorary pallbearers or act as ushers during the services. Lastly, you can ask friends and family to light candles or pass out luminaries as a way for them to remember your child.

Newborns need plenty of comfortable, warm clothing, especially when they are spending their first few months in the hospital. Babies are prone to scratching, which makes it important that their clothes are soft and smooth. It’s also necessary to dress them in clothes that are breathable so they don’t overheat. There are many types of newborn baby clothing to consider, such as rompers, 2-in-1 dresses, and even footie pajamas. Whether you’re shopping for your own little one or picking up a gift for someone else, the right clothes make all the difference. You want to make sure your little bundle of joy has the best possible outfits for every occasion, from sunny days out and casual playdates to cold weather adventures. To keep babies cozy, a breathable material such as cotton is the way to go. You’ll also want to opt for loose, stretchy clothes that will allow the baby to move freely. In warmer weather, rompers are a popular choice. They combine style and comfort, and they can be worn for any occasion. You can find rompers that have ruffled shoulders and adorable prints to suit every taste, and they aren’t just for girls. Newborns will also appreciate the extra warmth of footie pajamas, which have feet attached to each leg. For cold weather, sweaters and jackets are essential. A hat and mittens will help to prevent babies from scratching themselves, while the addition of a coat or hoodie will help to retain body heat. During the rainy season, outerwear like fleece jackets and ponchos will keep your child dry and comfortable. While there’s no way to predict exactly how long your newborn will be in the hospital, it’s a good idea to stock up on newborn clothes for at least three weeks. This will give you a chance to try out different outfits and gauge your baby’s growth. It will also give you an idea of how much of each size you’ll need to buy, which will help you guide friends and family who want to shower your little one with clothes. A great place to shop for newborn baby clothing is Hanna Andersson, an Oregon-based brand known for its Scandi sensibility and ultra-comfy designs. The company often partners with popular characters and franchises, so you can purchase clothing featuring your baby’s favorite character or holiday theme. When choosing newborn clothes, look for snaps on the neck and crotch area to make it easier to change your baby’s diaper. It’s also important to choose garments that are easy to wash and dry, as your infant will be subjected to a lot of washing in the early stages of life. When you’re looking for the perfect outfits for your newborn, be sure to check out sales and promotions. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are two of the best times to get a deal on the latest styles of newborn baby clothing. You can find onesies, rompers, jackets, and even dresses at discounted prices during these events.

Burial gowns are a beautiful way to help family members dress their loved ones. Choosing what they would like to wear in death can help ease their grief and bring comfort. It is also a good opportunity to continue caring for them in death, just as they did in life. Whether you are planning for an open casket funeral or cremation, it’s worth considering what you want your loved one to wear as part of the service. It can make a great difference to those attending the funeral or memorial services, and is often an expression of their personality. The funeral director making the arrangements will be able to advise you on what clothing is appropriate for your loved one. They will be able to recommend a company that makes burial garments or a local sewing group that can sew them for you. Alternatively, you can buy them yourself from a wide variety of retail stores. Most burial clothes are designed to look like day wear or nightwear and may have false shirt fronts and other details to resemble the deceased. Some are even scented, which can help to calm and comfort mourners. Many are made of natural fibres such as calico or bamboo. Others, especially those for children, are designed with padded shoulders and long sleeves to help protect them from the cold or against any marks that might be left by medical equipment or clothing. There are also a range of natural burial dresses and shrouds suitable for woodland and green funerals. Some of them are also available in a choice of sizes, so they can fit newborns as well as adults. For infants, there are also baby burial gowns and wraps that can be worn with a matching bonnet. Some items of clothing are unsuitable for a funeral or cremation, because they can damage the casket or the embalming fluid. It’s worth checking ahead with the funeral directors if you wish to use clothing that isn’t normally used for a funeral, such as jeans or a favourite pyjama. You may also wish to remove any jewellery or mementos before a funeral or cremation. However, it is often possible to keep some items for display in the casket, such as a favourite watch or necklace. One funeral home offers a collection of burial attire, including a selection of burial gowns and wraps for babies, which can be worn with the baby’s own bib and blanket. Its founder, Lesley Basile, has seen this kind of dressing up help mourning families, particularly in cases where the deceased was very young or died suddenly. She also believes that it’s a way to allow people to express their personality in a way that they cannot when they are grieving.