Choosing The Deceased's Funeral Attire

Mourning the loss of a loved one is never easy. If the deceased is a close family member, such as a parent, sibling, or spouse, you may also have to deal with letting others know of the death, writing an obituary, tending to practical needs, like caring for the deceased's pets or preparing for guests, planning a wake, and making the funeral arrangements.

In some ways, being able to distract yourself with these tasks is a blessing in disguise, as it temporarily keeps people from focusing on their grief and gives them the strength to make decisions and do what needs to be done. If your loved one will be having an open casket or will be cremated in clothing, one of the things you will need to do is pick out clothing and other accessories. Here are the basic guidelines of what to choose.

Choose What The Deceased Would Want

If you are choosing what they will be laid to rest in, you likely know what they would prefer. You can buy a new outfit you think they would have liked, or you can choose from the clothing they already own. Don't be afraid to choose an unconventional outfit if that's what the deceased themselves would have wanted.

For example, if your father's daily uniform consisted of a pair of blue jeans, a plaid flannel shirt, and his cowboy boots, there's nothing wrong with being buried in it as well. In fact, it can be quite disconcerting to see someone laying in a casket in a 3-piece suit or other formal attire if they hadn't dressed that way while alive. However, if they were religious, be sure to check with church for any funeral customs or traditions you may not be aware of. Additionally, don't choose to bury them in an article of clothing you would want back, such as a favorite sweater. Funeral directors often have to cut or otherwise alter clothing, and they generally do not return any clothing to the family.

The funeral home you have chosen may have different guidelines, but in general, they will want you to choose a shirt or dress that has long sleeves and covers the neck up to the collarbones, like a collar. The less skin that is showing, the better. If the deceased will be wearing a dress or skirt rather than slacks, they will also need stockings rather than socks. Women should have a bra, panties, and possibly a slip. Men should have underwear and an undershirt. They may also have a belt or suspenders.  

Don't Forget The Accessories

Shoes, dentures, a wig, eyeglasses, jewelry, and religious items, such as a rosary, should also be included with the clothing. Let the funeral director know if the jewelry is something you want back or something that you wish to be buried or cremated with the deceased.  Visit a site like http://www.fosterwarnefuneralhome.com for more help.

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