How Clothes Are Chosen for Burial
When a loved one passes, many decisions must be made to ensure they are honored in a way that reflects their life, beliefs, and dignity. One of these decisions is choosing burial clothing. While it may seem like a small detail, the garments a person is buried in hold deep personal, cultural, and religious significance.
This guide from Tegeler Monument Company explores the traditions, customs, and practical considerations that go into selecting burial attire, whether for a traditional burial, cremation, or religious funeral rites.
The Significance of Burial Clothing
The clothing a person is buried in serves as a final representation of their identity, beliefs, and the way they lived their life. Families often choose garments that reflect:- Personal style – Clothes that the deceased wore and loved in life.
- Religious traditions – Attire that aligns with faith-based burial customs.
- Symbolism of peace and rest – White garments or simple fabrics symbolizing purity.
- Military or professional honor – Uniforms or clothing that reflect service and achievements.
Traditional Clothing Choices for Burial
Modern & Secular Choices
For those who do not follow strict religious customs, the choice of burial clothing is often based on personal preference or family wishes. Some common choices include:- Formal wear – Suits, ties, dresses, or gowns.
- Casual or comfortable clothing – A favorite outfit or something the deceased often wore.
- Nightgowns or robes – Symbolizing peace and eternal rest.
- Handmade garments – Clothing made by loved ones, especially in small communities.
Religious and Cultural Burial Attire
Many religions have specific traditions and requirements for burial clothing:Christian Burial Clothing
- In Catholic and Protestant traditions, the deceased is often dressed in formal attire (a suit for men, a dress for women).
- Orthodox Christian burials often include white garments symbolizing purity, and some traditions include a burial shroud.
Jewish Burial Attire
- In Jewish tradition, the deceased is wrapped in a simple white linen tachrichim (burial shroud).
- Men are often buried with a kippah (yarmulke) and a tallit (prayer shawl).
- The focus is on humility and equality in death, so elaborate clothing is not used.
Muslim Burial Attire
- Islamic burial traditions require the body to be washed and wrapped in a plain white kafan (shroud).
- Men are typically wrapped in three pieces of cloth, while women are wrapped in five pieces.
- The focus is on simplicity and returning to God in purity.
Hindu Burial Clothing
- In Hindu traditions, the deceased is often dressed in simple, traditional attire, usually white for men and married women, and red or yellow for unmarried women.
- The body is wrapped in a white cloth before cremation.
Buddhist Burial Attire
- In some Buddhist traditions, the deceased may be dressed in simple robes, similar to those worn by monks.
- Some families choose plain white garments to symbolize peace and detachment from material life.
Burial Clothing for Cremation
For those choosing cremation, some materials must be avoided. Synthetic fabrics, leather, and certain treated materials may not be suitable due to safety concerns. Many crematories require natural fabrics like cotton, linen, or wool. Some families choose to wrap their loved one in a special blanket or shroud, while others opt for a simple, meaningful outfit.Factors to Consider When Choosing Burial Clothing
When deciding what a loved one should wear for burial, consider: ✔Personal Preferences – Did they have a favorite outfit or color? ✔ Religious and Cultural Traditions – Does their faith dictate specific clothing? ✔ Material & Fabric – Some materials (synthetics, leather) may not be allowed in cremation. ✔ Accessories & Jewelry – Should rings, watches, or glasses be buried with them? ✔ Climate & Location – Will the clothing hold up well over time, or will a shroud be preferred?Can Jewelry, Shoes, or Accessories Be Buried?
Many families wish to bury their loved one with meaningful items, such as:- Wedding rings
- Religious symbols (crosses, medals, rosaries)
- Favorite hats or scarves
- Glasses or watches
Who Decides What Clothes Are Chosen for Burial?
Deciding what a loved one will wear for their final resting place is a significant and emotional task. In most cases, immediate family members make this decision, but various factors can influence who has the final say. Typically, the responsibility of choosing burial clothing falls to:- Spouses or Partners – The closest family member, such as a husband, wife, or life partner, often makes the decision.
- Children or Parents – If the deceased was unmarried, their children or parents may decide on appropriate clothing.
- Siblings or Other Relatives – In cases where no immediate family members are available, siblings or other close relatives may be responsible for selecting attire.
Pre-Arranged Wishes
Some individuals make their burial preferences known before passing, either through:- Pre-planned funeral arrangements – Some people specify what they would like to be buried in ahead of time.
- Legal documents – Last wishes may be outlined in a will or end-of-life planning documents.
- Verbal or written instructions – Families often respect a loved one’s spoken wishes regarding their burial attire.