Shehechiyanu During the Three Weeks
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Question
A girl who gets engaged today, can she buy a new dress? And can she recite the Shehechiyanu blessing? And can she renew without reciting the Shehechiyanu?
Answer
Shalom Rav
For most clothing today, the Shehechiyanu blessing is not recited, as there is not great joy in purchasing them. Such clothing can be bought and renewed during the Three Weeks.
However, if it is an expensive and particularly joyous garment, for which Shehechiyanu should be recited, it is advisable to avoid renewing it during these days to avoid the obligation of the blessing.
But if there is no choice (and it seems the case described in the question is a situation of 'no choice' according to custom), it is permitted to renew and recite Shehechiyanu, relying on the opinion of those who are lenient in this matter.
Source
Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim, Siman 551, Sif 17. 'It is good to be cautious about reciting Shehechiyanu.'
However, in the Mishnah Berurah (Sif Katan 98), the opinion of the Gaon, Rabbi Eliyahu, is brought, who disagrees and writes that it is 'an excessive stringency.'