Yes, many married Orthodox and Hasidic Jewish women wear wigs, often called sheitels. But not all do, and not every community follows the same practice. Some women wear scarves, hats, turbans, or a combination of coverings.
The basic reason
In many Orthodox communities, married women cover their hair as an expression of modesty, religious identity, and marital status. A sheitel allows a woman to cover her natural hair while still appearing polished in public or professional settings.
Why a wig instead of a scarf?
Different communities answer that differently. Some value the wig because it fully covers the natural hair while blending into everyday life. Others prefer scarves or hats because they make the covering more visibly distinct. There are also rabbis and communities that debate whether a very natural-looking wig is ideal.
Hasidic practices vary
Hasidic women are not one single group. In some communities, women wear sheitels. In others, they may wear a scarf or hat over the wig. Some customs are stricter about length, style, or public appearance. The exact practice depends on family, community, rabbinic guidance, and personal choice within that framework.
What outsiders often get wrong
The wig is not a costume and not a universal rule for every Jewish woman. It is also not simply about hiding beauty. For many women, it is a religious practice woven into daily life, identity, marriage, and community standards.
Bottom line
Many Orthodox and Hasidic married women do wear wigs, but the reasons and customs are more nuanced than a single sentence can capture. The most respectful answer is: sheitels are one common form of Jewish hair covering, not the only one.