Burial outfits are a way for family members to pay tribute to their loved one and to honor their wishes in terms of what they would like to be dressed in when they die. Often, the deceased will leave instructions regarding their clothing choices in their will or they will speak with family members about this ahead of time. This can make the choice of burial attire much easier.
During a funeral, the body will be displayed either in a full casket or in a half couch. The latter is most common for viewings as this allows mourners to see the face and upper torso of their deceased loved one. For this reason, it is important to dress the deceased in a respectful outfit that conveys a sense of serenity. A white ensemble is a popular option as it symbolizes purity and peace. However, some families prefer a more subtle outfit such as a pastel shade or a simple floral design.
When choosing burial clothes, consider the deceased’s age and lifestyle. Younger people may not wear suits and dresses at home, so a casual outfit such as a t-shirt or pair of jeans might be more appropriate for their final resting place. In the case of an elderly loved one, they may have been used to wearing nightgowns at home, so this type of attire could be suitable for their burial. Babies can also be dressed in specialized funeral clothing such as infant burial gowns that are available in various sizes.
In addition to personal preference and a sense of respect, it is important to consider religious customs and guidelines when choosing burial clothing. Different faith traditions have their own guidelines and specific rules regarding how a person should be dressed for their final resting place. It is recommended that you consult with religious leaders or other individuals within your faith tradition to gain a better understanding of what is required in your community.
For instance, in some cultures it is customary for a person to be wrapped in a cloth shroud. This is done to preserve the body and help conceal any scars caused by surgery or illness.
Another important factor to consider is whether or not you want your loved ones to be dressed in shoes. Depending on the situation, it might be more appropriate to not wear them as shoes can interfere with the natural position of the feet after death due to rigor mortis.
If you choose to dress your loved ones in shoes, be sure they are closed-toe. The same goes for accessorizing with pieces of jewelry that may have been meaningful to them during life. It is recommended to avoid jewelry that has a lot of stones as these can fall off during the soaking process and are difficult to clean.