United Synagogue Youth Appropriate Dress Policy

Tzniut (modesty) is a long-standing Jewish value. As a people who see ourselves as reflecting the image of God, our Jewish community believes we should act accordingly; thus, some things are not appropriate, for they do not reflect our Jewish values. How we dress is a basic example of these values. This policy represents the minimum expectations for modest and appropriate dress at USY events. It is divided into two sections, one for all USY activities and the other for Shabbat.

     BASIC USY STANDARDS OF DRESS

Clothing on which any profanity or inappropriate language, pictures or symbols are written, printed or depicted is not permitted. No visible underwear is permitted for both males and females. During Tefillah, inappropriately short skirts or shorts, or tight garments, are not permitted; shoulders must be covered for both males and females Tank tops, 2-piece bathing suits (except where midriff is covered), bare midriff styles, halter-tops, leggings, or see-through blouses are not permitted.

     FOR SHABBAT

Males: Long pants with a dress shirt and/or sweater. Females: A skirt or dress at a minimum of finger-tip length. Blouses, knit shirts or sweaters should have sleeves; if they don't, shoulders must be covered. Both males and females: No shorts or jeans are to be worn and dress shoes are encouraged during Shabbat Tefillot and meals. The Regional Youth Director or his/her designee may determine that, during Shabbat, because of weather, location of event, or nature of the activity, certain variations may be permitted.