עברית
Halachot and Customs
May One Wear New Clothes During a Year of Mourning?
Question
Hello Rabbi,
Is it permissible to buy and wear new clothing, shoes, or bags during the year of mourning for a father?
Thank you.
Answer
Hello,
According to Ashkenazi custom, one should not wear new clothing during the twelve months of mourning for a parent (Rema Yoreh De'ah 380:3). This restriction applies specifically to important clothing, but simple clothing is permitted (Aruch HaShulchan there 380:11). The same applies to bags and shoes; if they are important, one should refrain from wearing them, but if they are not, it is allowed.
However, according to Sephardi custom, one should not wear a new white and pressed garment until one’s other foot has reached thirty (days), and they will be scolded by their peers. Nevertheless, clothing of other colors may be bought and worn immediately after the completion of the seven days of mourning (Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Yalkut Yosef Avelut 380:3). The same applies to bags and shoes which are permitted.
Best wishes,
Hillel Meirs
