Choosing what someone wears for burial is one of the most personal decisions a family makes — and one of the least talked about. Whether you're planning ahead or handling arrangements now, understanding your options for funeral burial clothing saves time, reduces stress, and ensures the final presentation feels right.
Why Burial Clothing Matters
The outfit chosen for burial or cremation is often the last physical image family members carry with them. It can reflect personality, cultural tradition, religious belief, or simply comfort. Funeral homes will dress the deceased in whatever clothing the family provides, so this decision genuinely belongs to you.
Types of Funeral Burial Clothing
Personal Clothing from the Wardrobe Many families choose a favorite outfit the person already owned — a Sunday suit, a beloved dress, a military uniform. This is completely acceptable and often the most meaningful choice. Keep in mind that garments are typically cut at the back for easier dressing, so condition matters less than sentiment.
Burial Gowns and Shrouds Specialty burial garments are designed specifically for this purpose. Options include:
- Burial gowns — soft, dignified gowns in white, ivory, or pastel tones, often in satin, velvet, or cotton
- Burial suits — full suits with matching trousers, sometimes including a tie and pocket square
- Burial shrouds — simple wrapped garments used in natural or green burials, often made from organic cotton, linen, or wool
- Religious burial garments — such as Jewish tachrichim (white linen sets), LDS temple clothing, or Catholic burial robes
Cremation-Specific Clothing If cremation is planned, families still often dress their loved one for viewing. Lightweight, natural-fiber garments are recommended since synthetic fabrics can interfere with the cremation process. Many funeral homes offer simple cremation gowns as a practical, lower-cost option.
What to Look for When Buying
Before purchasing funeral burial clothing, consider these practical factors:
- Sizing — Order slightly larger than the person's typical size; post-mortem swelling is common and clothing must be put on without full cooperation
- Fabric — Natural fibers (cotton, linen, silk, wool) are best for both burial and cremation
- Open back design — Many purpose-made garments have open or adjustable backs for ease of dressing
- Modesty — For religious or cultural traditions, confirm the garment meets community standards (e.g., full coverage, specific colors, or head coverings)
- Viewing vs. burial only — If there's a public viewing, appearance from the front matters most
Where to Buy Funeral Burial Clothing
Funeral Homes Most funeral homes stock a small selection of burial gowns and suits. Prices typically range from $30 to $250, depending on fabric and style. Convenience is high, but selection is limited and markup can be significant.
Online Retailers Specialty retailers like Afterlife Boutique, Passages International, and various Etsy sellers offer a much wider range — from simple white gowns under $40 to handmade heirloom-quality pieces over $300. Shipping timelines matter, so order at least 3–5 days before needed.
Department Stores For personal clothing purchases (a new suit or dress chosen specifically for burial), mainstream retailers like JCPenney, Nordstrom, or Walmart work fine. Budget $50–$200 for a complete outfit.
Natural Burial Shroud Makers For green or home funeral arrangements, craftspeople and small businesses specialize in organic cotton or wool shrouds. Expect to pay $100–$400 depending on material and customization. Some can be personalized with embroidery or hand-dyeing.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Start early if possible — rush shipping on specialty garments adds cost and stress
- Confirm with your funeral home what clothing they can accommodate and any restrictions
- Keep accessories simple — jewelry is sometimes removed before burial; discuss with the funeral home in advance
- Request garments stay with the deceased — clearly label any items you want returned (e.g., a wedding ring or heirloom brooch)
- Ask about a "comfort set" — some families dress their loved one in a favorite top and use a burial gown from the waist down, which is practical and completely acceptable
Comparing Providers
Quality, price, and customization vary widely across funeral homes, online shops, and independent makers. Mercoly lets you compare and find trusted funeral burial clothing providers in one place, so you can make a confident decision without hours of searching.
Once you know what you're looking for, finding the right burial clothing becomes one less thing to worry about — start your search today and give your loved one a final outfit that truly fits who they were.