The Hutterite Dress

By Karla, Gr. 9

The Hutterite dress remains similar to traditional practices and are therefore somewhat different to the modern style. Hutterites clothes and the way we dress have a very significant purpose. We wear them because of modesty which creates unity and also avoids fashion trends which could lead to separation between the people, or peer pressure. We believe our clothes should not consist in outward show of vanity and pride, instead a person should strive for inward beauty. As a Christian we should dress ourselves so as to please God, in every possible way.

The girls, and women clothes are a blouse and a simple sleeveless, long skirted cotton dress. A head covering is also required. In Corinthians 1: 4,5 it says: "Every man praying or prophesying having his head covered, dishonors his head. But every women who prays or prophesis with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for that is one and the same as if her head were shaved." That is why men of our church don't wear a head covering. Our head covering is kerchief like, called a "tiechel".

Men wear black pants, a shirt and suspenders. When a man gets married it is required of him to grow a beard. Our clothes are part of our culture. We believe by maintaining our dress code, we are preserving our heritage.