1. Their Clothing Has Hidden Messages
Amish women’s clothing may look plain, but every detail carries meaning. From the color of their dress to the number of pins used, it signals their marital status, age, and even the specific church district they belong to. These subtle cues are part of their unspoken culture.
2. They Don’t Use Makeup, but Skincare Is Big
You might assume their lack of makeup means they don’t focus on beauty. On the contrary, Amish women take pride in natural skincare, often creating their own remedies from herbs and oils. Smooth, clear skin is considered a mark of health and modest beauty.
3. They Handle Financial Matters Behind the Scenes
While men are seen as the heads of households, Amish women often manage family finances. They budget meticulously, ensuring their large families are well-fed and cared for, even on modest incomes.
4. They Sew Almost Everything by Hand
It’s not just the dresses. Amish women sew quilts, curtains, and even children’s toys. Every stitch reflects patience and skill. They rarely discuss the labor involved because they see it as their duty, not something to brag about.
5. They’re Allowed to Work Outside the Home (Sometimes)
Amish women often work on family farms or help with small businesses, but in some cases, they’re permitted to take jobs outside their community. These jobs—like cleaning or baking for English families—are kept discreet to avoid judgment from stricter Amish members.
6. They Don’t All Marry for Love
Marriage is sacred in Amish culture, but it’s often arranged or heavily influenced by family and church leaders. Women may not voice this openly, but compatibility often takes a backseat to community values.
7. They’re Exceptionally Resourceful
Amish women could probably teach a masterclass in DIY. They repair clothes, make soaps, and preserve food for winter, often without modern conveniences. This self-sufficiency isn’t just practical—it’s an expectation.
8. Birth Control Is Taboo
Amish women typically have large families, partly because birth control is frowned upon. Discussions around contraception are rare, and even the topic of family planning is shrouded in silence.
9. Divorce Is Virtually Impossible
In the Amish community, divorce is seen as a failure of faith. Women stay in marriages no matter what, relying on family or church for support during tough times. It’s a topic they avoid discussing with outsiders.
10. Their Education Ends Early
While boys and girls receive similar education, it usually stops at eighth grade. Amish women don’t continue formal schooling, focusing instead on homemaking skills and community roles. This limited education helps maintain their traditional way of life.
11. They’re Not Always as Submissive as You Think
Amish women are expected to be humble and obedient, but within their families, they often wield significant influence. Many quietly make major decisions about child-rearing, household dynamics, and even farm operations.
12. They Have Their Own Beauty Hacks
Without access to salons or drugstores, Amish women create their own beauty treatments. Vinegar rinses for shiny hair and homemade creams for soft hands are just a few of their time-tested tricks.
13. They Use Modern Medicine When Necessary
While Amish communities rely on herbal remedies, they’re not completely against modern medicine. Women will visit doctors or hospitals for serious issues, though they might not advertise it to maintain the appearance of self-reliance.
14. They’re Not All Thrilled About the Rules
Amish women follow strict rules, but not all do so happily. Some secretly question their limited freedoms, though they rarely voice these doubts openly. The pressure to conform is immense, and expressing dissatisfaction can lead to social isolation.
15. They’ve Mastered the Art of Silent Strength
Amish women may not openly share their struggles, but they exhibit incredible resilience. Whether it’s raising large families, enduring hardships, or adhering to their faith’s demands, their quiet strength speaks volumes.
The Amish lifestyle is fascinating, but like any culture, it has layers that aren’t always visible at first glance. These hidden truths about Amish women reveal not only their challenges but also their ingenuity and dedication to a way of life that’s remained unchanged for centuries.
