Hi, speaking as an orthodox jew here. As it happens, there are many sects within the category "orthodox jews". Some do not tend to dress in this demeanor, such as most of the "modern orthodox" and many of the "standard orthodox". read more
However, the "yeshiva orthodox" world, and hassidic groups, (not to be confused) often do wear hats, beards, jackets and or long black coats. I am part of the "standard orthodox" world, and therefore dress in a suit on the sabbath, and attend a "black hatter" synagogue. read more
Answer. Black, scientifically, is the absence of color. Wearing black only indicates lack of concern for color and other dictates of fashion, and thus helps keep priorities straight. In old sociological terms: to be inner-directed rather than other-directed. read more
Some choose to wear a double head covering all the time, but it is not required. Some wear it while eating. The style of hat varies by groups, and the black hat is relatively modern. In the pre-war Lithuanian Yeshivot, grey suits and grey fedoras were the style and many in the Litvish tradition still wear grey and blue suits. read more
Mostly, it's Chareidi Jews who dress that way, and it's usually for purposes of modesty (not to be showy) and because it's tradition. Different Chassidic dynasties wear different black hats--they don't all wear the same brand, and some will only wear a particular brand, so it's also a mark of identification with a particular group. read more