Choosing Burial Gowns and Other Clothes for a Loved One

Choosing the right clothing for a loved one who has passed is a final act of reverence. Many families choose to dress their deceased in clothes that reflect their personality and interests. Whether it’s Grandma’s favorite sweater or Dad’s fishing pants, many outfits have special meaning and help honor their memory.

The choice of burial attire is often an emotional and sensitive decision, but it’s a very important one to make for your loved one. The right clothing can convey a feeling of calm and tranquility, allowing your family to focus on their memories together. It’s also a way to respect your loved one’s wishes and honor any cultural or religious guidelines they may have specified regarding their funeral.

While it’s customary to wear black for a funeral, white is also popular and can convey a sense of peace and serenity. If your loved one had a specific preference for a particular color, consider incorporating that into their burial clothing. If the deceased was from a culture with unique traditions, including traditional clothing like a kimono or kilt can be a meaningful choice.

Some families may also select an outfit that reflects the person’s hobbies or career. For example, if your loved one was a baker, wearing their favorite baking outfit to the funeral and visitation can be a meaningful tribute. If they were a fisherman, an embroidered fishing shirt might be appropriate.

If you’re not sure what type of clothing to select for your loved one, there are companies that can provide you with burial gowns and other clothing for a service. Many of these companies are run by volunteers or dedicated staff, and they often operate as nonprofit organizations. They work to create a positive and uplifting experience for those who are mourning, helping their communities cope with the loss of a beloved member.

Creating burial garments is a labor of love for those who work in this field. Nonprofit agencies and small businesses that specialize in this area are typically located around the country and can be found on online directories. For instance, Indianapolis-based Miracle Gowns was founded by Marie Murphy, a career NICU nurse who saw the need for specialized infant garments. By transforming donated wedding dresses into beautiful yet practical burial garments for infants who do not survive, Miracle Gowns is a wonderful resource for grieving parents and medical professionals.

If you have any questions about choosing burial clothes for a loved one, please do not hesitate to contact us. The caring and experienced professionals at Vaughn Greene Funeral Services are always available to offer compassionate guidance and support. You can reach us by phone, email or live chat. We’re proud to serve families in the greater Indianapolis area, including Carmel, Avon and Noblesville. We look forward to hearing from you.