As part of the funeral planning and preparation process, a loved one will need to choose an outfit for the deceased to be buried in. While this might initially feel uncomfortable or even painful, many people find that choosing burial clothing is one final gift they can give the deceased, a last act of love and respect that is a testament to the bond the two shared. Here are some important things to know about dressing a loved one for burial.

Accepted Clothing Styles

At most funerals, the deceased wears standard formal clothing. The outfit might be something they would have worn to a job interview, religious service, or special occasion like a wedding or formal dinner. For men, this might mean a suit and tie; for women, a dress or pantsuit. Clothing in darker colors is the norm at funerals, for both the deceased and the attendees.

These are not hard and fast rules, however. You can personalize the clothing in any way that feels respectful to the deceased and in line with who they were in life. For example, if the deceased eschewed formal clothing throughout their life, dressing them in a three-piece suit would be jarring and out of character. Think about what the deceased would have considered "dressy," and use that as a benchmark to determine the style of clothing you choose for the burial.

Items & Accessories

The first thing to select is a full head-to-toe outfit. You should include undergarments with the outfit—not because they'll be visible, but as a way to help your loved one maintain their dignity even in death. Feel free to add any accessories that complement the outfit and are in keeping with the deceased's style; this might include jewelry, a scarf, a belt, or eyeglasses. The only thing you don't need to include with the outfit is footwear. Even at open-casket funerals, shoes aren't visible and aren't really necessary.

What to Avoid

The goal is to be respectful and appropriate with the outfit choice, so anything that could be construed as improper or of questionable taste should be avoided. Don't choose clothing that is overly tight or revealing. Looser clothes are preferable, as bodies tend to change shape after death. Avoid short sleeves and shirts that reveal the collarbone; death and funeral preparation processes can alter the appearance of the arms and upper part of the torso.

Your funeral home can advise you further on the best practices for choosing a burial outfit. Shirley Brothers Mortuaries & Crematory has been serving the Indianapolis, IN, area since 1898. This exceptional funeral home provides stress-free and elegant funeral, burial, and cremation services, and they will gladly guide you through every step of the planning process. Call (317) 897-9606 or visit them online to schedule an appointment.