A further message that can be learned from the verse עוז והדר לבושה is of particular relevance to the times in which we live: There can be no doubt that a major contributory factor to the lack of tznius in ladies’ wear nowadays is the fact that the Jewish woman finds it very difficult to buy suitable clothes. Garments are manufactured by people who seek the absolute opposite of tznius, their motto being “the more eye-catching the better.” This makes it very difficult for the Jewish woman to find blouses and dresses that have a suitable style and color, that are not see-through, that are not tight-fitting, and that have Kosher necklines, hemlines, etc.
We are however an ×¢× ×§×©×” עורף – a people who do not give in. We know that where there is a will there is a way. Furthermore, we know that Hashem puts difficulties in our path only so that we demonstrate our resolve and iron will to keep His Torah and fulfill His mitzvos come what may. Therefore, with עוז, persistence, strength and fortitude, the Jewish woman does not give in. She feels that she cannot capitulate and admit defeat in a matter of such importance. She knows that she must stay firm when basic issues of Yiddishkeit are at stake. Consequently, although with respect to her personal desires that sincere Jewish woman or girl is prepared often to forgo and do without, she will not compromise her principles, even if many obstacles stand in her way. She therefore makes every endeavor to find clothes suitable for herself and her daughters. If nothing can be found, she will have clothes made to the refined styles that would suit her and her family’s needs.
When a woman is particular about tznius, and ensures that her dress is appropriate for a mother or future mother in Klal Yisroel (the Jewish people), here clothes generate הדר – splendor and prestige. Her aristocratic manner of dress bears witness to the fact that she has consecrated her life to the service of her Creator. Rather than make worldly desires the essence of her life, she uses the means given to her true role – to set up a home from which Torah and fear of G-d shall shine forth. Just as the priestly garments of the Kohen are described by the Torah as תפ×רת – magnificent (Shemos 28:2), for they demonstrate that the Kohen is engaged in a holy and distinguished service, so too, the garments of the true Jewish woman demonstrate that her days are filled with true values.
Hence, the strength displayed by the effort she has made to find such refined clothes (עוז) reveals her inner royalty and splendor (הדר). Her personality is a harmonious blend of firmness and tenderness. She is an embodiment of good midos (character traits) and strength of character.
Modesty-An Adornment for Life: Rabbi Pesach Eliyahu Falk, © Feldheim Publishers.
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It is great to see that you and others understand the problems associated with proper Women’s dress ethics. Chana Klein and others in the community sell skirts, tops, stockings, sox, etc. for women and girls. It would be nice to let everyone know about these sources. Challah and Hats is another source.