It is wise to discuss the dressing options available to you, with the funeral director beforehand, if this is something that you wish to be involved with.
In the past, men were typically dressed in business attire, such as a suit or coat and tie, and women in semi-formal dresses. In recent years, a change has occurred and many people are now buried in less formal clothing, such as what they would have worn on a daily basis, or other favourite attire such as sports, fishing, or night attire.
The clothing used can also reflect the deceased person’s profession, such as military, law enforcement and fire services personnel wearing their uniform. Shoes, socks, underwear, singlets, bras, briefs, hosiery and reading glasses are all used if the family so desires, and the deceased is dressed in them as they would be in life. A plastic undergarment will also be placed on the deceased to avoid any leakage.
In certain instances a funeral director will request a specific style of clothing, such as a collared shirt, blouse or scarf, to cover traumatic marks or autopsy incisions. In other cases, clothing may be cut down the back and placed on the deceased from the front to ensure a proper fit.
The funeral director will also offer the option of dressing the deceased in a specially designed shroud/funeral gown, rather than in clothing. If jewellery is to be placed on the deceased, it is usual for the funeral directors to list each piece of jewellery separately for the purpose of cross checking by funeral staff on the day of the service.
It is common for photographs, notes, cards and favourite personal items to be placed in the coffin with the deceased.
