The attire you choose for your deceased loved one to wear at their funeral will help create a sense of finality. It can also give family members the opportunity to dress their loved one in a specific outfit that they believe reflects them. Traditionally, men are dressed in suits and women in dresses. However, there are a number of alternative options as well. Burial gowns, for instance, are often used when a person has requested to be cremated after a viewing or open casket funeral and can serve as an alternative to a traditional suit.
Many funeral directors will have an assortment of clothing to choose from for their clients. They can help you make the best choices based on your preferences and the deceased’s final wishes. In addition, some religious institutions will have clothing on hand for people who die in their care and can coordinate with the funeral home to arrange a suitable outfit.
When choosing an outfit for a loved one, consider their age and lifestyle. Younger people are often less formal and may prefer casual clothing, such as a shirt with jeans or shorts. Elderly people, on the other hand, often have an established style and can be dressed in clothing they would wear at their day-to-day lives.
Some families may want to consider bringing their own clothing items for their loved ones, if possible. This can provide a more personal touch and allow you to avoid the expense of purchasing a new outfit. However, it is important to keep in mind that the clothing will have to be cleaned afterward. If you are concerned about cleaning and washing the clothes, some funeral homes will offer a dry cleaning service for their clients.
Those who are concerned about the environmental impact of their choice may want to consider a biodegradable burial outfit, such as a cotton or linen shroud. These are typically white and can be embroidered with floral designs. Biodegradable funeral gowns are often made of recycled materials and can be worn for a traditional burial or to honor the deceased in a green cemetery.
There are also outfits that can be worn for a natural or green burial that look like a hospital gown, but with false shirt fronts to resemble day wear or evening clothes. Some are even designed to match a person’s favorite outfit. Basile remembers one woman who wanted to be buried in her pink floral nightgown and satin quilted bathrobe, which she set aside ahead of time.
Some individuals, especially those who follow the Jewish faith, have specific guidelines for what to wear at their funerals. For example, they are traditionally buried in a three-sheeted shroud for men and a veil for women, and they should be accompanied by a skullcap known as a yarmulke. If you are planning a burial for a Jewish individual, your funeral director will be able to help with these arrangements.