As a way of honouring a loved one who has died, people often choose to dress them in their favourite clothes for the funeral. This can be anything from a suit or dress to a pair of jeans. The important thing is to ensure that the outfit reflects their personality and beliefs. For instance, if they loved bright colours and patterns then you should try to incorporate this in their final outfit. This will help to make the service a more positive and memorable experience for family members who attend.
When choosing burial clothes, you should also take into account the individual’s cultural and religious traditions. Many cultures require specific clothing, such as a kilt or kimono, which should be worn during the service. In this case, it is a good idea to consult with religious leaders to see what type of attire is appropriate.
The colour of the clothing that is chosen to be dressed the deceased person can also have a profound impact on their loved ones. For example, white symbolizes purity and peace, so it is a common choice for burial garments. Other colours, such as pink or blue, can be equally symbolic. Similarly, floral patterns can evoke memories of the loved one’s time on earth.
Aside from the clothing that is chosen to be worn by a loved one, there are a number of other elements that can help to create a funeral that is meaningful for both the deceased and their family and friends. For example, some individuals will have a preferred type of casket or burial location. They may also have a particular book or object that they wish to place with them for viewing purposes at the service. This can be a great comfort to those who have attended the funeral, as it provides them with something tangible to remember the deceased by.
Another thing that is important to consider when selecting burial clothes is the individual’s personal style. While this can be as formal or casual as desired, it is usually best to avoid tight-fitting clothing that might cause swelling after death. The same goes for clothing with metal zippers, buttons and other hardware, as these can damage the body during cremation.
For those looking to have a green funeral, burial gowns made from biodegradable materials such as calico or bamboo fibre are available. These are designed with false shirt fronts and other embellishments to resemble day wear or evening attire. Alternatively, there are shrouds that can be used for green funerals, which can be purchased from a specialist provider.
Those who are unable to purchase or make their own burial clothes can donate to organisations that provide handmade outfits. Some of these charities focus on baby burials, providing gowns and wraps for babies weighing up to two and a half pounds. This allows them to be comfortably dressed and protected, while also allowing their parents to feel close to their angels. These outfits are far better than the impersonal hospital blankets that would otherwise be used to cover them.