Jewish Hats – The Traditional Kaddish

The traditional Jewish Hat is a head covering traditionally worn by Jewish women. The modern day Jewish Hat pin comes in many materials and in many styles and the Hat has been interpreted through the ages by Jewish, Israelite, Arab, and non-Jewish designers and artisans. Today, in addition to the modern classic hat pin, the fashion world has seen the beginnings of what can be considered as a new kind of Hat, one that draws upon the classic elements of the traditional Hat but adds an element of modernity, a certain “Yaz” to the otherwise classic “Zayin.” This new type of hat pin draws upon aspects of Jewish fashion such as the Kaddish, the mournful dance recital in the funeral mitzvot. Modern elements of the hat pin include:

Traditionally, women would not wear hats on the day of their death, but following the destruction of the Temple in 70 A.D., they were required to wear a mourning veil before their deathbed. As we have seen the progress of Jewish fashion, today, a simple Hat with a short line or without a fringe can be adapted into many different styles. The traditional Kaddish mourns the loss of life and is a time for sharing and comfort, but it has evolved into a modern celebration of fashion. In this modern adaptation, women wear their best outfits, sometimes quite glamorous, under their flowing, multi-colored hats; this grand celebration of wearing the latest hat pin, takes place in the shiva hall. Modern-style Kaddish mourners will even sport rings in their hair and intricate headpieces, much like the Hasidic kaddish.

While traditionally worn only by Jewish women, today’s modern-day hatpin is available for men and women of all cultures and religions. Men’s hats are usually solid colors, but they can be adorned with gemstones, flowers, or even ornate headpieces. A more somber, elegant hat for a man would be quite dark in color, like black, and would often have a broach or comb attached. A more feminine style for a man would be a flat, oval, or square-shaped hat with a narrow fringe.