There's A New Sheitel On The Block!

Somehow I have become involved in helping to raise money to empower a movement growing within a new generation of orthodox Jewish women. See, one of their problems is (and there are lots!) that for those who observe the strictest of orthodox Jewish law, a married woman must dress modestly so as to not attract other men. Most ultra-orthodox women do a really terrific job at this. Actually, it probably wouldn't make much difference what they wore, their chances of attracting men would still be on the chill end. This might also explains a bit about why they have arranged marriages, but that's another story.

Anyway, in keeping with being unattractive, some of these frumpniks also shave their heads then wear a wig, called a 'Sheitel' in Yiddish. Seems silly, but there we are. Some add a scarf on top of this. They also have to listen to male rabbis argue about whether a married woman's arms must be covered to the wrist or only to the elbow. It can get complicated.

To get back to our topic: it seems that most of these sheitels are really ugly, which is pretty much the point. On the other hand, there is a new generation of young orthodox women who don't want any part of the frump look. They are willing to go along with much of the old mishagas, but draw the line at some of the more ridiculous rules. To this end, they are fighting for their right to bare elbows and to wear sheitels with a newer, sexier look, one that says:

 “I may be married, but I still got it going, boo-bah-lah!”

 In order to help with the massive  legal costs ahead, I have agreed to let them sell photos of me to raise money. If you see any of these comely babushkas on the street, please stop and buy one. A photo, that is. Give generously. You may even be invited to pinch the cheek of your choice.

Abi Gazunt!