If you are in the market for orthodox women's plus size clothes, you may find it frustrating to try to find items that fit and that will also honor the Lord.
What Constitutes Orthodox Clothes
The term "orthodox" means pertaining to, or conforming to beliefs, attitudes or modes of conduct that are generally approved. What these beliefs and modes of conduct are differ from one religion to another, but in general when it comes to clothing, in a word it means modest.
Example of Orthodox Clothing Standard
Here is a look at a sample of orthodox clothing standards and what is acceptable according to Jewish standards of modesty. Note that this is only a sample, because even with the Jewish understanding of modesty, some interpretations are more lenient than others. Many rabbis have drawn up their own version of "Laws of Modesty" so if you have chosen to follow an orthodox mode of dress for religious reasons, you may want to check what that means within your local assembly or community. The following criteria are one example of modest dress that is accepted as orthodox:
- Skirts worn approximately four inches below the knee
- Skirts may have a kick pleat, but no slits or vents
- Sleeves worn below the elbow
- Necklines - In many cases authorities insist the collarbone be covered, while others permit about 3.5 inches below the base of the neck to be revealed.
- No pants or shorts
- No sheer fabrics
- Clothing must not be clingy or tight-fitting
Head Coverings
According to Jewish religious law, women who are or have been married (widows and divorcees) are required to cover their hair. A woman who has never been married does not have to. For Christian women, many feel convicted to wear a head covering based on I Corinthians 11.Ready-made orthodox head coverings include:
- Snoods
- Rectangular scarves
- Square scarves
- Triangular scarves
- Hats
Orthodox Women's Plus Size Clothes
It hard enough to find dresses or tops that conceal the collarbone or skirts without slits, but finding orthodox plus size women's clothes can be even more of a challenge. However, it's not as hard as it once was with the dawn of the Internet. If you are a full figured woman in search of larger orthodox style clothing, there are online stores that cater to your needs. In many cases, clothing can be custom made. Here are a few resources to help you get started:
Lilies of the Field
Lilies of the Field offers size charts to help you find the perfect fit. Dresses are available in standard waist lengths, but if you are long-waisted then additional bodice length can be requested.
Modest World
Modest World sells orthodox women's plus size clothes up to size 16 and is the first Rabbinical approved clothing store on the Web. Along with their clothing, they offer a selection of judaica jewelry and more.
Whether you choose to wear modest orthodox clothing for religious reasons or for reasons of personal conviction, shopping on the internet makes finding what you want just a click away.
