The tichel (Yiddish טיכל tikhl), also called a mitpachat (Hebrew מִטפַּחַת miṭpaḥat), is a headscarf worn by many married Orthodox Jewish women in compliance with the code of modesty known as tzniut. Tichels can range from a very simple plain color cotton square with a simple tie in the back to very elaborate fabrics with very complex ties using multiple fabrics. As with any other form of clothing, the tichel is influenced by fashion. Have you heard or possibly seen a woman wearing a tichel (see photo)?

I wanted to wear one, forgetting that only observant / frum / Chassidic Jewish women wear them when they are married and not when they are single. I called the Chassidic Rabbi in my area who said, true that it's required if Chassidic and married but not single. I called another Rabbi (reform) who stated that I could wear one, if my motives were true of heart and for the right reason. I bought one, turns out my face is too fat, so I passed it along to a Muslim girlfriend who looks stylish for sure. Have you ever wanted to wear something that you were not supposed to (Meaning not socially acceptable to whatever population)?

I have an Chassidic friend who lost her husband and most of her life, but she still wears a tichel everyday, even though she is single. So be it. Possibly this could translate to a person wearing their wedding ring after the divorce or passing of their partner. Have you or someone else done this?

Lastly, speaking of religious ware/wear, I worked as an instructional aide back in the late 80s. The teacher was a nice gal for the school months that we worked together. Three years after that, I was to work with her again, but this time right from the first day of class. She wrote her name on the board ... Sister Claire. Turns out she is a nun and I had no idea. I had never seen a nun out of dress, were you aware that certain orders are now allowed to do this?