Many ladies come to Munich excited to try on one of the gorgeous local outfits; the Dirndl. However at first it can be rather intimidating as there are so many options and styles to choose from. So with the help of my friend Schatzi Dirndl, I have for you a little example guide.
The Vocabulary
First things first, what the heck are these dress pieces called?
The Dress: Dirndl
Corset or bodice: Mieder or Dirndl oberteil
Blouse: Bluse
Apron: Schürze
Bow: Schleife
The Traditional Dirndl
Here we have a simple style in some very typical colours.
Traditional Dirndls are often found in Red, Blue and Green ( particularly Tannenbaum grün) They are paired with either a checkered dress or schürze and a full shoulder covering bluse
The Modern or Couture Dirndl
This Dirndl is a very unique option to show the modern flare seen nowadays at Oktoberfest. In Some areas and zelts it can be a very big fashion competiton and many woman strive to have the most unique dirndl.
In General, the modern dirndl is highlighted by the variations of colours and patterns. Some years I have seen them with wild patterns, mountains of ribbons, jewels and even pearl embeleshments.
Two other differences would be the mieder and Bluse
The modern bodice style is still rather traditional but instead of ties, goes together with man hidden metal clasps. In terms of the blouse, this is often a longer 3/4 sleeve style, often with a bit of lace or decorative piece around the collar.
Tying the Schürze
One of the most frequently asked questions for dirndls is which side to tie the bow.
When tying the schleife on your dirndl, the location in which you put it can send off a couple different messages.
Left: This means you are in a relationship or married
Right: Single ( and ready to mingle)
Middle: Child or virgin
Back: Kellnerin or widow
What do you think about Dirndls? have you gotten yours this year yet?
I hope this post helped you out a bit! let me know if you have any other dirndl related topics and I’d love to chat with you
Happy shopping
xxA
Dirndls curtesy of Schatzi Dirndl and Trachtlerin
My brother wants to go to Germany this year (he went a few years ago) and invited me to come with, but he wants to go during Oktoberfest, when it will be so crowded and hectic, and more expensive. I want to go so bad, but am a bit nervous. Any advice? Also, dirndls are so cute, and I would like to get one
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