If you are in charge of funeral arrangements, you have many decisions. The choice of clothing for your loved one's body is an important one. Here are factors to consider before making your selection. 

Choosing a Loved One's Final Clothing When Making Funeral Arrangements

What Elements Are Crucial

Before passing, your loved one might have expressed what they want to wear for their final rest. If not, when you are deciding, consider several factors, such as their age, personality, and religious or cultural mandates. Their body condition, scars, whether they have lost or gained significant weight or suffered physical damage make a difference. 

One approach is choosing an outfit your deceased might wear to a funeral or memorial service. In general, focus on selecting garments that reflect and respect who they were.

Consider Sentimental Value

If you or your deceased loved one placed sentimental value on a garment, then it's better to preserve it, and not include it as part of their funeral or burial outfit. When dressing the remains, the funeral staff often cut the back of clothing, to obtain a better fit. 

For items such as jewelry, keepsakes, and photographs, make a list of what you want to use. Give the funeral home staff the list when making the funeral arrangements, and tell them you want the items returned to you before burial.

Follow Dressing Recommendations  

When funeral arrangements include planning the deceased person's wardrobe, choose larger-sized garments for better fit. An autopsy can cause swelling in the abdominal area, and a corpse can be rigid, which leads to slipping or sloughing skin when touched. To conceal blotchy skin and a hollowed neck area after embalming, choose a long-sleeved top that covers the collarbone.

If you are making funeral arrangements for a loved one, turn to Eackles-Spencer & Norton Funeral Home in Harpers Ferry, WV.  Licensed in West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland, this funeral home serves residents in Charles Town, WV, and beyond. Whether you need pre-planning, cremation arrangements, or funeral services, their staff offers friendly and compassionate service. View what they offer online or call (304)724-6500 for care and attention 24/7.