The death of a loved one is a difficult time for everyone involved. There are many details that need to be taken care of, including funeral arrangements and clothing choices. While this may seem like an odd thing to think about, it is important that the final attire respects the deceased and reflects their personality and style.
It is common for burial attire to lean towards formality, especially with men’s and women’s clothing options. Suits, dress shirts, and ties are a popular choice for men, while dresses or skirts are often preferred for women. However, the level of formality can vary depending on the preferences and culture of the deceased as well as their family’s beliefs and values.
For example, some families may choose more casual clothing such as a favorite outfit or a t-shirt with a special message on it. Others may prefer a more traditional option such as a classic black dress that exudes elegance and solemnity. In addition to these considerations, religious beliefs or customs can also play a role in the selection of burial clothes.
If your loved one has made their funeral or memorial plans prior to their passing, they may have specified an outfit that they would like to be buried in. In addition, many funeral homes offer a wide selection of burial clothing as part of their services and can guide you through the available choices. Additionally, there are several local organizations that can provide you with a range of burial apparel from wedding gowns to baby blankets.
For infants, it can be difficult to find clothing in small sizes. For this reason, Missy Ray founded Angel Gowns of WNY in April 2014, a nonprofit organization that aims to make one-of-a-kind angel gowns for every infant that passes away before their parents can hold them in their arms. The angel gowns are made from donated wedding and prom dresses and are able to be provided for free to families who request them.
A few things to remember when selecting burial clothing are that items should be comfortable and easy to move in, since the body will begin to swell after embalming. Also, items with rubber, plastic, or metal should be avoided because they can cause damage to the cremation chamber. If you have any questions, be sure to contact your funeral home for guidance or assistance.
Often times, people choose to donate their own wedding gowns or prom dresses so that other women and children can be dressed in them for their loved ones’ funerals. This allows people to pay tribute to the deceased and also provides them with a beautiful keepsake from their life. Additionally, some people choose to purchase or borrow gowns so that they can have something that is as close to their loved one’s style as possible during a very difficult time. This option is also a great way to support the work of nonprofits such as Angel Gowns of WNY.