Dress

The rule of Tzniut is a term within Judaism to describe issues around humility and modesty. Humility is a paramount ideal within Judaism. Moses is referred to as “exceedingly humble, more than any man in the world” and the Talmund states that humility is one of the characteristic traits of the Jewish people. This rule is frequently applied to the rules for dress and behaviour, especially for women.

In Orthodox Judaism both men and women are expected to substantially cover their bodies. In Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) communities men are generally required to wear long trousers and long sleeved shirts, and women to wear blouses with sleeves below the elbow and skirts that cover the knees. Some women try not to follow fashion trends, while others adopt fashionable but modest clothing.

In Modern Orthodox communities it is generally acceptable for women to wear sleeves reaching the elbows and shirts which cover the collarbone. Skirts must cover the knees and trousers are not worn in the presence of men.

Haredi women avoid overly eye-catching colours, especially bright red. Dress in the synagogue, and according to many in public, should be comparable to that worn be the community when meeting royalty or government.

In Conservative Judaism modest dress is required in formal situations, although tis requirement is often unobserved on a day to day basis, but it somewhat more observed with respect to synagogue attendance. While day to day dress often simply reflects the genral society, many Conservative synagogues expect more modest dress.