Jewish Traditional Clothing

Today, we are taking you inside three stores in Boro Park to bring you an inside view of three items of Orthodox Jewish clothing and their background.

Yarmulka

The traditional black velvet Yarmulka is what is worn by most men and boys over the age of 3 in the Orthodox Jewish Community of New York City. They come in all sizes and either with four parts or six.

The pictures above were taken at New Eichlers in Boro Park where a Yarmulka will cost about $5–$10 depending on brand and size.

Bekishe

Chasidic men and most boys over the age of 13 wear a bekishe, a type of black frock on Shabbos and Jewish holidays. They come in many patterns and designs. It generally has 6 buttons on the front and 2 buttons on the back.

The pictures above were taken at G&G Quality Clothing in Boro Park where a bekishe will cost between $100–$300 depending on brand, size, and intricacy of design.

Shtreimels

Shtreimels, hats made from fur are also worn to mark Shabbos, Jewish holidays, and large occasions such as weddings. Generally they are made out of a hard, black velvet interior with fur wrapped around the outside. Originally made to mimic the hats of the European nobility, they have changed over time to become more refined. Shtreimels are mostly worn by Chasidic men after they get married.

The shtreimels shown here are sold at Krausz Shtreimel in Boro Park and the cost varies depending on the quality of the fur and size.

All images credit: Benjamin Kanter/Mayoral Photo Office