shaitel

Shaitel, also spelled sheitel, is a wig worn by many married Jewish women to cover their hair in public in accordance with Orthodox Jewish modesty norms. The practice is most common among Hasidic and many Ashkenazi communities, though customs vary. In communities that require hair covering after marriage, the shaitel is a preferred solution because it allows the wearer to present a styled, natural-looking head while maintaining modesty. Alternatives include hats, scarves, or snoods, but the shaitel remains widely used because it can be styled to resemble natural hair and can be worn in professional or social settings.

Shaitels are made from human hair or synthetic fibers. They can be custom-made or purchased off the shelf, and often feature a base cap with a lace-front or full lace construction to create a natural-looking hairline. They may be worn with combs, clips, wig caps, or adhesive methods to secure them. Care requirements differ: synthetic shaitels are typically heated-limited and easier to maintain; human-hair shaitels require washing, conditioning, and careful storage, with heat styling possible in some cases.

The shaitel market supports a specialized industry with a range of styles, lengths, and colors to imitate various natural hair textures. Prices vary widely based on material, craftsmanship, and customization. While widespread in many Orthodox communities, attitudes toward wearing a shaitel differ; in some groups, modesty norms emphasize other coverings or limit the use of wigs. The topic intersects with discussions about gender, autonomy, and religious identity within Jewish communities.