Traditional costume fashion is all the rage today. It is no longer just a must for a visit to the Oktoberfest. Rather, many weddings or other celebrations take place today under a traditional costume motto. For women, this is a welcome opportunity to finally grab a chic dirndl. However, there are also some dress code rules to be observed for traditional costumes that are more fashionable than traditional.
The dirndl: a fashion trend with a history
Traditional costume fashion is no longer only popular at Oktoberfest. Even at many festivals, especially in the more rural areas, the traditional costume theme is taken up again today. Whether it’s a Christmas party or a wedding party – the guests are usually also happy about the opportunity to throw themselves in dirndls or lederhosen. After all, it is always a special feeling to experience an event in traditional costume.
Lederhose and dirndls are conveniently available at low prices – at least if the traditional costume outfits are bought from specialist suppliers who specialize in more fashionable traditional clothing. Fashionable costume outfits do not only differ in price from traditional, historical costumes. Rather, the design of traditional costumes also follows much stricter, regionally different rules.
There is little space left for fashion accessories and personal preferences. It is therefore not surprising that traditional costumes are rarely worn. Much more popular today are fashionable traditional costumes that, especially as dirndls, leave plenty of space for the taste and individual preferences of the wearer. Nevertheless, there are also some dress code rules for fashion dirndls that should still be observed today.
Dirndl – what is it actually?
Anyone invited to a party with a traditional costume theme or who would like to cut a good figure at the Oktoberfest only needs a dress with an apron? Far from it – a dirndl is much more than just any dress. But what is it exactly?
The history of the dirndl goes back well into the 19th century. During this time the dirndl developed, namely from the traditional Bavarian or Austrian costume that was previously used. The previously strict clothing rules have been softened by the dirndl. Nonetheless, the dirndl also has its origins in peasant costumes and therefore follows a few rules. In particular, these “rules” also result in the fact that a real dirndl must consist of at least two parts: a dress and an apron. In the vast majority of cases, however, a blouse is also worn under the tight dirndl bodice.
In terms of design, many dirndls are still similar to traditional models today. However, there are no longer any real rules regarding their color, the materials and patterns used. The dirndl can therefore contain elements made of silk, lace, linen, cotton, velvet or other materials. It is only important that the bodice is tight, but the skirt is swinging wide.
Which shoes go well with the dirndl?
Of course, matching shoes are part of a complete dirndl outfit. Which shoes are chosen should always be based on the style of your own dirndl. In principle, flat shoes, boots or pumps are equally allowed. However, it is important that the shoes are in a matching color and have traditional costume details if possible. If the shoes themselves do not have any typical costume details, they can be supplemented with traditional costume stockings or tights. Both coarser tights or those with a playful lace pattern look appropriate.
What do the matching petticoats and aprons look like with a dirndl?
At least one apron always belongs to a real dirndl – the petticoat, on the other hand, is optional, but should not be missing for a complete look. Particularly important:
Both the apron and petticoat should end about three centimeters above the hem of the skirt. So the petticoat is only visible when dancing. As far as the apron is concerned, a particularly “strict” dirndl dress code applies. After all, the way the apron is tied says a lot:
- The ribbon on the right : the dirndl wearer is taken or married.
- The bow tied at the front : the dirndl wearer is a virgin.
- The bed on the left : the dirndl wearer is single.
- The bow tied at the back : the dirndl wearer is widowed or is currently working as a waitress at the party.
How long does the dirndl have to be?
One question that dirndl wearers keep busy is that of the ideal length of the dirndl . In the meantime, not only dirndls are offered in classic lengths that reach up to or above the knee. There are also mini versions that end well above the knee. But which dirndl length is the right one? In principle, of course, the same applies to traditional costume fashion: everyone can choose the length that they personally like best. However, if you want a more classic look or are even invited to a traditional costume wedding, you should choose a dirndl model that extends over the knee. An ankle-length dirndl can also be a chic option. If, on the other hand, you want to have fun on the meadows and see your dirndl as a fashionable Oktoberfest accessory, you can also choose a shorter model.
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