Hello can anyone help? Ive been invited to 2 synagogues to observe the shabbat service and I just wondered what I should wear? One is liberal and one is orthodox. I know the men will be wearing full suits but what is appropriate for women? How formal should I dress?

What type of synagogues?

General rule of thumb, long dress below the knee, top that covers your elbows, and not a low cut neck line, and something to cover your hair.

And make sure your dress or blouse isn't tight, or form fitting. Stockings to cover your legs ( black) and closed shoes.

For the Reformed , what you would wear in a conservative church.

thanks for your replies - I better go shopping!!

I hope you enjoy your visit.

let us know how it turns out....

Yes, still waiting to hear.............how did it go?

*Hand upraised* oo-oo, i wanna go! -- When hoster returns, we can learn more- but i have a story here:

...once i dug into what bit of history my aunt sent; armed with the misspelling of Choen, the Rebbitson practically usheered me up for an Alieah!

Having No idea what it was, i said, "yes" [meanning, i looked forward to making Alyiah].
In the end, they got me up to the frunt to help in dressing Torah! [That would be Tanak, yes?]

On the one hand i was terrified [knowing less then the converts] -- On the other hand it was so very lovely --

They were conservitive, but i dressed as close to Orthadox as modestly possible for culture and comfort..

They did the bulk of service b'Ivret [in Hebrew]. Knowing enough about the language- i could almost keep up!

Finally an old gent hit my car one evening as his wife, horrified in the passenger side, drove off. -- I moved, but i think of them fondly.

Hello,

Well I've just been to synagogue number 2 and I'm feeling much better educated! Went to reform the first time and orthodox today - it's been really fasinating seeing the differences, and to my surprise I actually really enjoyed the orthodox service - I thought I might feel a bit left out been in the gallery but it was really good, everyone was very welcoming and feed us lots of nice food which was great

Sounds like it was great thing for you. I am happy you enjoyed it.

Me too!

how was the oneg?