Every year when the holidays roll around, I find myself searching my closet, dissatisfied with my selection. I start to ask questions like, “Will people remember if I rewear this dress? Is this shirt see-through? Does this count as covering my shoulders?” Suddenly, the simple act of getting dressed feels like a balancing act between fashion, modesty and the very real possibility of sweating through wool on a 75-degree September morning.
These common concerns can be resolved with a quick fix: simple clothing. Although many of us like to pull together clever outfits with unique patterns and flashy colors, a way to make it through the high holidays is by keeping it plain. Not all of us have countless synagogue-appropriate outfits lying around, so, in order to avoid holiday morning stress, here’s a breakdown of my high holiday outfit advice.
The first step is to think about layers. A thin cardigan, a scarf tucked into a bag or a light blazer can help navigate the warm weather outside with the overly air-conditioned inside of a synagogue. It’s best for layers to have a simple, timeless look so that they elevate any outfit without looking out of place.
Additionally, layers give the flexibility to rewear outfits without them looking identical. Swap the cardigan, add a shawl or switch the vest, and suddenly it’s a whole new look. Specifically, the JCrew Women’s Classic Cotton Cardigan Sweater ($80) is great for layering and comes in nine different colors, similar to the JCrew Men’s Cotton Cable Half-Zip Sweater ($118). Also, Zara’s Plain Beaded Scarf ($46) is the perfect lightweight addition to any outfit.
Next, give some thought to the colors of the outfit. For Rosh HaShanah, nothing beats fresh shades of white, cream or pastels. Symbolically, lighter colors represent renewal, making them perfect for jumping into the new year.
On Yom Kippur, oftentimes people wear all white on Kol Nidre (the service marking the beginning of the holiday), and some continue wearing white, while others shift to neutral tones the next day. If these colors are less prominent in one’s closet, there is no problem with simply adding a white scarf or grey cardigan to other colors in order to reflect the solemnity of the holiday.
On Yom Kippur especially, comfort is key. If planning on staying at synagogue for hours, maybe consider flexible materials and soft fabrics. For example, a maxi skirt will allow for sitting, standing and moving around without feeling too restricted. These skirts are easily found in stores. Specifically, American Eagle’s Smocked Handkerchief Hem Maxi Skirt ($60) is a great option, or a satin one from ASOS, starting at $38. As an alternative to skirts, wide-leg trousers can come off just as polished and breathable. For tops, consider sweaters, buttoned dress shirts or blouses made from lightweight cotton or silk that can keep anyone looking put-together without the stiffness of polyester or a material that traps heat.
And last but not least, shoes. While it may be tempting to reach for the new heels in the closet, or everyday, worn-out sneakers, try aiming for a sleeker shoe. However, services can last hours, so make comfort a priority. No one can go wrong with simple loafers or ballet flats, but lately, most of us just wear sneakers anyway. If planning to go down the sneakers route, keep in mind the following: stick to clean neutral pairs, avoiding athletic shoes and flashy colors. For example, Veja Extra-White Natural Campo Sneakers ($160) are the perfect combination of sleek and stylish. Veja also carries vegan models, perfect for avoiding leather shoes on Yom Kippur.
If anyone is stuck, think in terms of outfits instead of separate articles of clothing. For example, one outfit combination can be a flowy dress with a light cardigan and ballet flats. Or, a maxi skirt with a tucked-in blouse and belt. This framework helps create the blueprints for outfits, and all one has to do is match them with options in their own closet.
Holidays can be a stressful time for a multitude of reasons, so no one should let their outfit be one of them. With a wardrobe full of comfortable fabrics, easy-to-layer items and few versatile colors, there will never be scrambling at the last minute. Some holidays come with their own unspoken dress code, so pay attention to the mood of the day. Dressing with the holiday in mind keeps everyone dressed appropriately for the occasion while maintaining a meaningful connection.
