Choosing Burial Gowns and Other Clothes for a Loved One

As much as it may be difficult to think about, when a loved one passes away there are many decisions to be made. Some of these will be unexpected, and while you may not have any specific information from the person who passed away about their wishes for their funeral or burial, you can lean on the advice of those around you and your own common sense to make the best choice. One of these choices is the clothing that they will be dressed in when they are laid to rest. Choosing burial clothes can be a difficult task, but with a little thought and care you can find outfits that are appropriate and will help to honor your loved one.

It has long been a tradition to dress the dead in clothes that they would have worn in life. It is a way to help family members say goodbye in a way that feels familiar, and it has also been a religiously mandated practice for some groups, such as the Catholic faith. However, there are occasions where clothing that was worn in life isn’t appropriate for burial. This is often due to a change in weight, stiffness caused by rigor mortis, or other factors. In these situations, funeral homes will often provide a gown for the deceased to be dressed in during the services and at the graveside. This garment is similar to a smart night gown or pyjamas, and it can be adorned with false shirt fronts and other embellishments to resemble day wear or eveningwear.

There are other options for clothing a loved one for a funeral and burial, including shrouds that can be wrapped around the body or dresses that can be slipped over it. A popular option for women is a simple, classic black dress, which exudes elegance and solemnity. The dress is typically knee or midi length and features a modest neckline and sleeves. It is typically paired with closed-toe shoes and minimal jewelry for a refined, dignified look.

Choosing burial clothes can be a difficult and emotional experience, but you can take comfort in the fact that your loved ones will be honored with dignity and respect. Whether you are selecting a funeral gown or other clothing for a loved one, you can lean on the support of your family and friends, and you can seek out the guidance of a funeral professional. The caring and experienced team at Vaughn Greene Funeral Services can offer you compassionate assistance and support during this time.

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This article was originally published in June 2018 and has been updated.

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