Ever wonder what it’s really like to be an Amish woman? We’ve all heard stories, but most of us don’t really know what goes on behind those plain dresses and horse-drawn buggies. And let’s be honest—some of the stuff they keep quiet is way more surprising than you’d expect. So what are Amish women not telling the rest of us? Let’s break down some of the most interesting, eyebrow-raising, and totally real facts they usually keep to themselves.
They sew their own underwear
Most people grab a pack of underwear off a store shelf without a second thought. Amish women? Not so much. They make their own undergarments by hand. That’s right—no brands, no lace, no elastic bands from the mall. It’s usually just simple white fabric, sewn with care, and made to last. This isn’t just about modesty. It’s about tradition, self-reliance, and avoiding anything that draws attention to the body.
Some even teach their daughters how to make these at a young age. According to Amish guidelines, clothing—including what’s underneath—should never be flashy. For most of us, this might sound like a lot of work. But for them, it’s just normal life. No Target runs. No Victoria’s Secret sales. Just a sewing machine, fabric, and a lifetime of habits passed down through generations.
They rarely cut their hair
If you’ve ever had a bad haircut, you know the relief of finally trimming it. But many Amish women never cut their hair—ever. They let it grow long from childhood and keep it neatly tucked under a prayer covering. It’s considered a sign of obedience and spiritual discipline. Imagine never walking into a hair salon, never coloring it, and never trying bangs. Sounds wild, right?
For Amish women, hair is deeply tied to their beliefs. They braid it, twist it, and pin it up daily. According to several Amish lifestyle videos, this is not just about appearance—it’s spiritual. Cutting it would go against the teachings they’ve been raised with. So they don’t talk about it. They just quietly stick to what they believe, scissors-free.
They follow strict dating rules
Think dating is awkward? Try it Amish-style. Amish women follow courtship rules that would make most teens today roll their eyes. Dating often starts with group events or church gatherings. No texting, no Snapchats, no Friday night movies. If they’re interested, they might exchange letters—or even ask their parents to pass messages. And get this: in some communities, couples “date” by sleeping in the same bed…fully clothed, with a board between them.
This practice, called “bundling,” might sound strange, but it’s been around for centuries. According to firsthand accounts, it’s meant to build emotional closeness without anything physical happening. Whether it works or not? That’s up for debate. But it’s definitely one of those things Amish women aren’t sharing on Instagram—because, well, they don’t have Instagram.
They don’t use deodorant
Let’s be honest—nobody wants to be the person who smells. But in many Amish homes, store-bought deodorant is off-limits. Some women make their own using baking soda and coconut oil. Others just skip it altogether, relying on frequent washing and natural remedies. If you’re thinking, “Wait, what?”—you’re not alone. This is one of those things they’re definitely not shouting from the rooftops.
It’s not about avoiding hygiene—it’s about avoiding chemicals and staying simple. According to off-the-grid sources, even homemade apple cider vinegar gets used as a cleanser. It’s another example of how Amish women live differently without ever bragging about it. They just go about their day…naturally.
They make faceless dolls for their kids
Walk into any toy aisle and you’ll see dolls with every expression imaginable. Amish kids? Their dolls have no faces. Literally. Amish women sew soft fabric dolls, but they leave the face blank. No eyes, no nose, no smile. Why? Because vanity is discouraged. Giving a doll a face is seen as encouraging pride or making one person seem more important than another.
These faceless dolls might seem creepy to some people, but they’re totally normal in Amish homes. According to several documentaries, these dolls are handmade with love and passed down for years. It’s a quiet way of teaching humility—even through playtime. And yes, it’s one of those odd details you’d never guess unless someone told you.
They’re not allowed to show bare arms
Tank tops? Short sleeves? Not in Amish country. Amish women are required to keep their arms covered at all times. Even during hot summers, you’ll see long sleeves and high necklines. It’s all about modesty and sticking to tradition. If they’re working in the garden or doing chores, it doesn’t matter—it’s full coverage or nothing.
It’s one reason why Amish fashion hasn’t changed in over 100 years. As noted on Amish myth-busting sites, this isn’t just a preference—it’s a rule. And if you break it, you risk being disciplined by your church community. So even if it’s 90 degrees and humid, you won’t see Amish women reaching for sleeveless tops anytime soon.
They secretly love certain “English” things
Here’s the thing—Amish women might live simply, but that doesn’t mean they don’t notice what’s out there. Some secretly enjoy modern luxuries when they can. Perfume, cute coffee mugs, even the occasional store-bought treat. It’s not about rejecting all fun. It’s just about staying inside the rules publicly. Behind closed doors? Some things slip in.
According to former Amish women interviewed by non-profits, many struggle with balancing what they enjoy versus what they’re allowed. It’s not rebellion—it’s curiosity. And like anyone else, they have preferences. Just because it’s not talked about doesn’t mean it’s not happening quietly.
In the end, Amish women live lives full of quiet strength, deep traditions, and surprising routines. They may not post about it, but their choices tell stories louder than any selfie. Learning about their world isn’t just interesting—it’s a reminder of how different people live by values we rarely think about.
