What Is An Orthodox Jewish Wig And How To Choose?

Within the Orthodox Jewish community, the wearing of wigs holds profound significance for married women. These wigs, known as sheitels, symbolize modesty and adherence to religious customs. If you’re curious about the world of Orthodox Jewish wigs and seeking guidance on choosing the right one, this article aims to shed light on their essence and offer practical tips for selection.

What Is An Orthodox Jewish Wig?

An Orthodox Jewish wig, also called a sheitel, is a wig worn by married women in the Orthodox Jewish community. It is worn to cover their natural hair as a sign of modesty and religious observance. The sheitel can be made from human or synthetic hair and comes in various styles, lengths, and colors. It allows married women to fulfill religious requirements while expressing their personal style. Choosing the right sheitel involves considering factors like hair type, quality, comfort, and adherence to community guidelines.

Definition and history of Orthodox Jewish wigs

Orthodox Jewish wigs, also known as sheitels, are worn by married women in the Orthodox Jewish community. The wearing of these wigs dates back to the 16th century when Jewish communities faced persecution and were forced to flee their homes. To protect themselves from harassment and violence, Jewish women began covering their hair with wigs or scarves.

Over time, the practice of covering hair became a religious requirement for married women in the Orthodox community. Today, Orthodox Jewish wigs are made from human or synthetic hair and serve as a symbol of modesty and adherence to religious laws. The selection process involves careful consideration of factors like hair type, quality, and comfort while adhering to specific community guidelines.

Different types of wigs worn by Orthodox Jewish women

Sheitels

Sheitels are the most common type of wigs worn by Orthodox Jewish women. These wigs are specially designed to cover the natural hair while appearing natural and modest. They are available in various styles, lengths, and colors, allowing women to express their individuality while adhering to religious guidelines. Sheitels can be made from either human hair or synthetic materials, and they are often styled to resemble natural hair as closely as possible.

Tichels

Tichels are traditional headscarves that are commonly worn by Orthodox Jewish women as an alternative to wigs. These scarves are typically made of fabric and come in a wide range of colors and patterns. Tichels are wrapped around the head, covering the natural hair completely while providing a stylish and modest look. Some women choose to wear tichels as a personal preference, while others may wear them in specific religious or cultural settings.

Falls

Falls, also known as half-wigs, are another type of hairpiece worn by Orthodox Jewish women. Falls are designed to cover only a portion of the natural hair, typically worn at the back of the head to add volume and length. They are often used to create a more elaborate hairdo while still maintaining the requirement of covering the natural hair. Falls come in various styles and can be made from human or synthetic hair, offering flexibility in achieving different looks while upholding modesty.

Purpose and Significance of Wearing Wigs

1. Religious and Modesty Reasons

The primary reason Orthodox Jewish women wear wigs is to fulfill religious obligations related to modesty. According to Jewish law, once a woman is married, she is required to cover her natural hair in public. This requirement stems from the belief that a woman’s hair is considered a private and intimate aspect of her beauty, which should be reserved solely for her husband. By wearing wigs, women can maintain their personal sense of style while fulfilling this religious duty to cover their natural hair.

2. Symbol within the Community

Wigs, particularly sheitels, have become a recognizable symbol within the Orthodox Jewish community. Worn predominantly by married women, these wigs signify marital status and adherence to religious customs. They serve as an outward expression of a woman’s commitment to modesty and her dedication to upholding religious practices. Wearing a wig can also demonstrate a woman’s respect for her marriage and her desire to maintain the sanctity and exclusivity of her physical appearance for her spouse.

3. Relation to Married Women and Tzniut (Modesty)

The concept of Tzniut, which translates to “modesty,” is highly valued within Orthodox Judaism. It encompasses various aspects of a person’s behavior, dress, and appearance. For married women, covering their hair with wigs is an essential element of practicing Tzniut. By concealing their natural hair, they avoid drawing attention to themselves and redirect focus towards their inner qualities and character rather than outward appearance. Wearing wigs also fosters a sense of unity among married women in the community, as they share a common practice that reinforces their commitment to modesty and religious values.

How are Orthodox Jewish Wigs Made?

Orthodox Jewish wigs, known as sheitels, are typically made from either human hair or high-quality synthetic materials. The process begins with selecting the raw hair, which is then thoroughly cleaned and sorted to ensure uniformity in color and texture. Skilled craftsmen meticulously hand-tie the individual strands of hair onto a fine lace cap, creating a natural-looking and comfortable wig.

The wig is then carefully styled and cut to the desired length and shape, often taking into account the wearer’s preferences. Finally, the finished sheitel undergoes rigorous quality checks to ensure it meets the standards of modesty and appearance set by the Orthodox Jewish community.

How do Orthodox Jewish Women Choose the Right Wig for Them?

Here are some steps when selecting the right Orthodox Jewish wig for you:

1. Determine the budget: The first step is to determine how much you are willing to spend on a wig. Wigs can vary in price depending on the quality of materials used. A higher budget may allow for more options in terms of hair quality, length, and style.
2. Consider the hair type: Women must choose between human hair or synthetic wigs. Human hair wigs are often more expensive but offer a natural look and feel. Synthetic wigs are more affordable and easier to maintain but may not have the same level of quality or durability.
3. Choose the right color: The wig color should match the natural hair color as closely as possible, to ensure a seamless and natural look. Some women may also opt for highlights or other variations to add dimension to their hair.
4. Select the appropriate length: The length of the wig is a personal preference but should also be appropriate for the occasion and community standards. Longer wigs may be more formal, while shorter styles may be more practical for everyday wear.
5. Seek advice from a trusted source: Women may seek advice from a wig consultant or a trusted member of their community to help guide their decisions. They may also try on several wigs to see which one feels most comfortable and looks the most natural.

Where Can Custom Your Own Orthodox Jewish Wigs?

Welcome to Rehairsystem.com, your one-stop shop for high-quality custom Orthodox Jewish wigs. With our extensive experience and expertise in wig making, we are dedicated to providing you with exceptional wigs that are meticulously crafted to meet your exact requirements.

At Rehairsystem.com, Our meticulous attention to detail and commitment to using only the finest materials in our wig-making process. Each wig is made with the utmost care and precision, ensuring that it not only looks beautiful but also feels comfortable and natural to wear.

Our team of skilled wig makers has years of experience in creating custom Orthodox Jewish wigs, allowing us to offer a wide range of styles and options to suit individual preferences. Whether you prefer a long, flowing wig or a shorter style, we can customize the length, color, and texture to your specifications.

When you choose Rehairsystem.com, you can expect not only exceptional craftsmanship but also outstanding customer service. Our knowledgeable and friendly team is always available to assist you throughout the process, from selecting the perfect wig to addressing any concerns or questions you may have.

The Maintenance and Care Requirements for Wigs

Below are some tips for you:

• Regular brushing: Brush the wig gently with a wide-toothed comb or a wig brush to prevent tangles and maintain its style.
• Washing: Wash the wig with specially formulated wig shampoo and conditioner, following the manufacturer’s instructions, to keep it clean.
• Drying: Allow the wig to air dry on a wig stand or mannequin head to maintain its shape and prevent damage from heat.
• Storage: Store the wig in a cool and dry place, preferably on a wig stand or in a wig box, to protect it from dust and maintain its shape.
• Avoid heat styling: Minimize the use of heat styling tools like curling irons or straighteners, as excessive heat can damage the wig fibers.
• Professional maintenance: Consider periodic professional cleaning and styling services to ensure the wig remains in optimal condition.

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Conclusion

Understanding the essence of an Orthodox Jewish wig allows us to appreciate its cultural and religious significance. The process of selecting a sheitel is a deeply personal and meaningful journey for each individual within the Orthodox Jewish community. By considering the factors discussed here, one can embark on this journey with confidence, honoring tradition while maintaining personal style.