Traditional Jewish Clothing

There are many types of traditional Jewish clothing worn by people who practice this faith. Read on to discover just a few and why they are worn.

Yarmulke or Kippah

Yarmulke or Kippah are domed brimless skull caps worn by many Jewish people. Yarmulkes are worn at different times depending on the person wearing them. Praying, eating, reciting blessings or studying religious texts are all times the Kippah is worn. It is not unusual for Jewish men to wear the Yarmulke at all times. It is more and more common to see Jewish women wearing Yarmulke. Kippot are worn as a sign of respect and fulfill the tradition of always covering the head. Kippot are made out of a variety of materials including crochet, suede, velvet and satin and are decorated in as many ways as there are people wearing them.

The Tzitzit goes on the tallit

A tallit is a prayer shawl worn by Jewish men and occasionally Jewish women. Tallit are worn during prayers and include four knotted fringes or tassels which are called Tzitzit; one Tzitzit goes on each corner of the tallit. Customs vary widely on who wears the tallit and at what age. Small tallit called Tallit Katan are sometimes worn under clothing. The fringes may or may not peek out from under the clothing.

Kittel

The Kittel is a white jacket which goes to the knees. This garment is worn over clothing by prayer leaders and others on high holidays. It is often worn by the head of the household at the Passover seder.

Tachichim

Tachichim are burial garments. They are simple garments made of linen. Tachichim include a shirt, pants, head coverings and a belt. They may also include a kittel and tallit.

Traditional Jewish clothing also varies by region and community, and reflects the proud and varied history of the Jewish people, as well as Jewish beliefs.