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Why do Jewish Women Wear Wigs?

In many Orthodox Jewish communities, it’s common to see women wearing head coverings, including scarves, hats, and wigs. Some will wear this covering all the time, while others only wear it when praying or entering a synagogue.

At Gabi’s Wigs in Toronto, we offer a variety of wig options and work with a variety of clients. We will be happy to work with you to find the perfect wig for your needs.
Below, we will explore some of the most common reasons that Orthodox Jewish women wear wigs:

4 Common Reasons That Orthodox Jewish Women Choose To Wear Wigs

  1. To comply with tradition

    One of the primary principles of Jewish law is that after marriage, women should cover their hair. Some women choose to comply with this tradition by wearing a wig.
    In the Jewish community, these are known as sheitels. In the past, these were always cut into an unflattering bob with limited lengths and colors. However, women are now able to experiment with a variety of options to show off their unique personalities.

  2. Because they want to

    While many Jewish women wear wigs to comply with tradition, some wear them because they enjoy it. In some cases, it is because they want to let their natural hair rest, while others want to experiment with different styles or simply like the look of a wig.

  3. To be modest

    The purpose of covering the hair is to be more modest. Hair is seen as a sign of sensuality in the Jewish community. This is why it is primarily married women who do this. In some cases, unmarried women may also wear a wig during a special occasion or when worshiping to avoid being a distraction.

  4. To hide their beliefs

    Unfortunately, antisemitism is on the rise- especially in America. Therefore, many Jewish women choose to wear wigs to hide their beliefs. The wig allows them to stick to their tradition without bringing attention to themselves. A wig isn’t as obvious as other types of head coverings.

    If you are a Jewish woman that is interested in getting a wig, contact Gabi’s Wigs. One of our highly trained stylists will be happy to work with you to find your perfect Jewish wig.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Wearing a Wig

Below, we will explore some of the advantages and disadvantages of wearing a wig:

  • Advantages

    There are several advantages of wearing a wig, including:

    • Saves time

      The time it takes to put on your wig depends on your preference. In some cases, it can be as simple as putting on a hat.

    • Hides hair loss

      One of the best ways to combat hair loss and thinning is with a wig.

    • Customize your look

      Your natural hair limits your ability to experiment. You can color, cut, and style it but these things can do major damage over time. A wig allows you to experiment with different looks.

    • Protects natural hair

      Wigs are often called “protective style” because they give your natural hair a chance to rest and recover.

  • Disadvantages

    There are also a few disadvantages of wearing a wig, including:

    • May be uncomfortable

      Some people find that wigs are tight, itchy, and uncomfortable. This is especially true if the wig doesn’t fit properly. Therefore, it’s important to work with a qualified stylist that can help you find the best fit.

    • Can be expensive

      When it comes to wigs, you get what you pay for. There are several factors that determine the cost of the wig including the quality of materials and the length and thickness of the hair. A high-quality wig is not going to be cheap, and a cheap wig is not going to be high quality.

    • May cause you to overheat

      If the cap material isn’t breathable, you may get overheated. This is especially true if you are in an area that is hot and humid. This is primarily an issue with cheap wigs. The higher-quality wigs are typically breathable.

    • May damage hair/scalp

      While wigs are designed to protect your natural hair, they can cause damage if not worn properly. This is especially true for women who are wearing a wig to hide their hair loss/thinning.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Wig?

If you are interested in learning more about wigs and finding one to fit you, schedule your consultation at Gabi’s Wigs today. Our staff is trained to help you find your ideal look and to help you style it.

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