The short answer for what to wear on Yom Kippur: wear white, avoid leather shoes, and choose something modest and comfortable enough for a full day of services. Beyond that, there's real flexibility — some people wear a full kittel, others simply choose a white shirt or dress, and the tradition is observed differently across communities and denominations. This guide covers each piece of the traditional Yom Kippur dress code in more detail: the kittel and its different styles, everyday white clothing options, why leather shoes are traditionally avoided, and what to consider when dressing kids for the holiday.
🤍 The Yom Kippur White Look
Simple, comfortable options for a full day of services.
For most people, wearing white doesn't require a special garment at all — a plain white shirt, dress, or blouse you already own (or a simple new one) satisfies the custom perfectly well. This is the most common approach outside of Orthodox communities, where a full kittel is less commonly worn by everyone in the congregation. Whatever you choose, comfort matters as much as color, since you may be in synagogue for several hours at a time across the day.
👘 The Kittel
The traditional ceremonial robe, in three styles.
A kittel is a plain white robe traditionally worn by men on Yom Kippur, and it's also used at other significant life moments like a wedding or leading the Passover seder. It symbolizes purity and humility, and for some carries an added layer of meaning as a reminder of the burial shroud, encouraging reflection on mortality during a day devoted to repentance. Not everyone wears a full kittel — it's more common in Orthodox and traditional communities — but for those who do, styles range from a simple cotton robe to a more decorative lace-trimmed version. Any of the three options here can be worn over regular clothing.
👟 Non-Leather Shoes
Options for men and women, in keeping with tradition.
Leather shoes are traditionally avoided on Yom Kippur, one of the five customary afflictions observed on the day alongside fasting, since leather footwear was historically considered a comfort item. Canvas, fabric, or synthetic-material shoes are the common substitute, and many people also extend the custom to belts and other leather accessories. These options cover both men's and women's sizing in simple, comfortable styles suited to a long day on your feet.
🧥 Layers & Kids
Rounding out the look for the whole family.
A light wrap or cardigan is worth having on hand, since synagogues can run cool and services stretch across many hours. For children attending services, a simple white outfit is enough to join in the custom without needing anything formal — see our guide to bringing kids to services for more on what to expect.
❓ FAQs About What to Wear on Yom Kippur
1. What should I wear to Yom Kippur services?
Wear white if you can, choose non-leather shoes, and dress modestly and comfortably for a full day of sitting and standing in synagogue. A simple white shirt or dress is enough — a kittel is optional and more common in Orthodox communities.
2. Why do people wear white on Yom Kippur?
White symbolizes purity and humility and evokes the image of angels; see our Yom Kippur Symbols guide for the full explanation.
3. What is a kittel and does everyone wear one?
A kittel is a plain white ceremonial robe traditionally worn by men on Yom Kippur. Not everyone wears one — it's more common in Orthodox and traditional communities, while others simply wear white clothing.
4. Why don't people wear leather shoes on Yom Kippur?
Avoiding leather footwear is one of the five traditional afflictions observed on Yom Kippur, alongside fasting, since leather shoes were historically considered a comfort item. Canvas or fabric shoes are the common substitute.
5. Can I wear a suit, or does it have to be all white?
Many people do wear a suit or formal clothing rather than all white, especially outside Orthodox communities. White is a widely observed custom, not a strict requirement, so modest, respectful clothing in any color is generally acceptable.
6. What should women wear on Yom Kippur?
A white dress, blouse, or skirt is the most common choice, often paired with a light wrap or cardigan since services run long and synagogues can be cool.
7. What should children wear to Yom Kippur services?
A simple white outfit is enough for children to join in the custom — nothing formal is required, and comfort matters more than a full match to adult dress.
8. Is it okay to wear colors if I don't own white clothing?
Yes. Wearing white is a widely observed custom rather than a requirement, so modest, comfortable clothing in any color is acceptable if white isn't available.
9. What kind of shoes should I wear on Yom Kippur?
Non-leather shoes such as canvas sneakers, fabric flats, or synthetic-material footwear are the traditional choice, in keeping with the custom of avoiding leather on the holiday.
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