Bat and Bar Mitzvah Dresses

There is a strict dress code in the Synagogue, and girls and women do not wear strapless dresses or spaghetti straps during the ceremony. However, dress at the reception is much less carefully controlled, and the standard dress at these celebrations is similar to that of a homecoming or prom.

A Tradition of Fashion

While the Shabbat ceremony is steeped in tradition and religious meaning, the celebration that follows is very much like a wedding reception or prom, complete with good food, music, dancing, and fun. Fashion plays a large part in this portion of the Bar Mitzvah, and young women shop with their mothers for months in advance for Bar Mitzvah dresses that will be unique, pretty, and appropriate. The key is to find a cocktail dress that is feminine, attractive, and age appropriate. There are lots of options for young women such as these.

Cocktail length and floor length Bar Mitzvah dresses will beautify the dance floor as these teens celebrate together. Cocktail dresses feature strapless bodices or spaghetti straps, offering conservatively revealing dresses. These dresses promise that the wearer will feel beautiful without being too sexy for the age. The hems will generally land about mid-thigh, some with layers of tulle to make the skirts more full, while others sport ruffles or hang simply in baby doll fashion.

Equally appropriate and very attractive Bar Mitzvah dresses are long evening gowns that mimic dresses that may be worn by brides, bridesmaids, or prom attendees. These pretty gowns are often full ballroom style dresses with layers of tulle and perhaps an overlay of organza or chiffon. Adornments may include fabric florets, simple jeweled trim, or other pretty, feminine accessories.

Dresses that Serve a Dual Purpose

Purchasing two Bar Mitzvah dresses can be a financial burden for a family, but a young woman would usually prefer to wear something a little less conservative to the celebration than that which satisfies the dress code for the Shabbat. This can be remedied with a dress that comes with a matching dress or shrug. A strapless dress or one that reveals more shoulder than is considered appropriate can be made ideal for the ceremony when a wrap covers the shoulders and meets the dress code. Simply drape the jacket over a chair or leave it at home and you will have a completely different look for the reception.

Remember as you are shopping for Bar Mitzvah dresses with your daughter that while this is not her occasion personally, it is a very important evening in the social scene of your young lady.