The Bavarian Outfit: Traditional Trachten Style

The dirndl and lederhosen are the most recognisable elements of traditional Bavarian clothing, known as Tracht in German. The dirndl is a feminine dress, consisting of a close-fitting bodice with a low neckline, a blouse, a wide high-waisted skirt and an apron. The lederhosen, literally 'leather breeches', are made from goat or buckskin and are worn with over-shoulder braces. Both outfits originated as workwear for peasants and farmers in the Alpine regions of Bavaria and Austria. Today, they are most commonly worn during Oktoberfest and other festivals celebrating German culture.

Lederhosen: workwear for peasants, made from leather

Lederhosen, the German word for "leather pants", have been worn for centuries in the Alpine regions of Bavaria, Germany. Originally, Lederhosen were workwear for peasants, made from durable leather to withstand demanding work conditions. Over time, Lederhosen evolved from workwear to a fashionable statement, particularly during Oktoberfest, where they are the official garb.

Lederhosen are typically made from goat or buckskin and feature patterning. They are worn with over-shoulder braces, often with a decorative panel across the chest. There are various styles, colours, and lengths, including short, knee-length "Kniebundhosen" and long pants that reach the ankle. Brown is the most common colour, but black and other colours are also available.

Lederhosen are traditionally worn with a white or checked shirt, knee-high woollen socks, and Haferl shoes, a type of leather shoe with laces and a pointed toe. For a more formal look, they can be paired with a jacket, such as a blazer or a tweed jacket. A vest, preferably woollen or suede, can also be added for a more authentic touch.

When purchasing Lederhosen, it is important to ensure a tight fit, as the leather will stretch over time. The waistband can be adjusted using a back lacing system, and a "Trachten" belt can be used for additional adjustment. To maintain the Lederhosen, they should be brushed to remove dirt and gently cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, avoiding harsh detergents.

Lederhosen: a fashion statement

Lederhosen, the German word for "leather pants", has become a popular fashion statement for men and women of all ages, especially during Oktoberfest. Initially designed as workwear for peasants and farmers in the Alpine regions of Bavaria, lederhosen has evolved into a trendy garment, with various styles, colours, and lengths, often featuring intricate embroidery and suspenders.

History of Lederhosen

Lederhosen was never intended to be a traditional costume. In the 16th century, French culottes, or knee breeches, became popular across Europe, with the French using softer fabrics for leisurely and aristocratic wear. In the 18th century, German and Austrian workers in the Alps adopted the culottes style but opted for leather, a durable material they were accustomed to for workwear. Lederhosen, which translates to ""leather breeches", was thus born.

While lederhosen was originally created for mountain and country-dwelling peasants, it eventually caught on with the upper class, who found the garment sensible for outdoor activities such as horseback riding and hunting. During the 18th century, it became fashionable for noble society to emulate peasant style, and lederhosen made its way into courtly circles.

However, in the 19th century, as pantaloons and trousers replaced culottes in European fashion, lederhosen fell out of favour with the nobility. It came to be seen as unfit for city dwellers and was replaced by jeans and other inventions for country workers.

Lederhosen Revival

Lederhosen's revival as a costume can be attributed to the founding of clubs dedicated to preserving Bavarian culture in Munich in the 1880s. Notably, in 1887, Oktoberfest announced that lederhosen and dirndls would be the official garb for attendees, a rule that still applies today.

Lederhosen Today

Lederhosen has become a cultural stamp of German history, much like the kilt in Scotland. It is now a timeless classic, with various styles available, including short lederhosen that leave the knee exposed, and long lederhosen that reach the ankle. Brown is the most common colour, but black and other colours can also be found.

When styling lederhosen, it is traditionally paired with a white or checked shirt, suspenders, knee-high woollen socks, and Haferl shoes, a type of traditional leather shoe. A jacket, vest, or hat can be added for a more unique look.

Lederhosen has undoubtedly become a fashion statement, evolving from its humble beginnings as workwear to a garment that is worn and celebrated worldwide.

Dirndl: a traditional dress with a structured bodice

The dirndl is a traditional dress with a structured bodice, tightly tied and decoratively embroidered. It is worn with an apron, a blouse underneath the bodice, and a full skirt that is gathered at the waist. The bodice is typically made from a single piece of fabric, with a join at the front that is secured by lacing, buttons, or a hook-and-eye closure. The skirt is usually wide and high-waisted, and the blouse is cropped above the midriff.

The dirndl originated in German-speaking areas of the Alps and was originally worn by young maids serving at courts in Austria and Bavaria. It is now considered the traditional dress for women and girls in these regions. The dirndl has a rich history, evolving from work clothing to high fashion, and remains a popular choice for festive occasions and weddings.

Today, dirndls come in various shapes and styles, with different colours, patterns, and fabrics. While traditional dirndls were made of simple and durable fabrics like linen or cotton, modern dirndls may feature elaborate finishes and decorations, with fabrics such as silk, brocade, lace, or even leather. The length of the skirt has also changed over time, with "mini dirndls" becoming popular, often ending above the knee.

When wearing a dirndl, there are several ways to accessorise and complete the outfit. For footwear, flat heels, court shoes, or ballerinas are common choices, though even sneakers may be worn for a more casual look. Traditionally, "Haferlschuh" shoes were considered the classic choice. As for jewellery, necklaces, earrings, chokers, and chains are popular additions, with silver being a favoured material. The apron, an essential part of the dirndl, also carries a special meaning: if tied on the right, the wearer is married or in a relationship; if tied on the left, they are single.

Dirndl: a maid's dress for house and farm workers

The dirndl is a traditional dress with a structured bodice, tightly tied and decoratively embroidered. It is often worn during Oktoberfest and other festivals celebrating German culture. The name is derived from the German word 'dirndl', which means a young woman or a girlfriend. The dress was originally made from simple, hard-wearing fabric and served as work clothing for young maids in the courts of Austria and Bavaria. The fabric was usually linen or cotton, with an apron made from bed linen.

In the 1930s, the dirndl was discovered by holidaymakers from the city, who began to adapt the style for their own use. The dress became more colourful, elaborate, and decorative. Today, the dirndl is often personalised and versatile, with a wide range of fabrics, colours, patterns, and details. The bodice is typically tight, with a low neckline, while the skirt is cut wider and gathered at the waist. The length of the skirt varies, from mini to midi to full-length. The apron, which used to be made from bed linen, is now often made from the same fabric as the dress, or finished with lace trimming.

The dirndl is usually worn with a blouse underneath, though some modern designs feature higher bodices that can be worn without one. The blouse may have short puff or elbow-length sleeves, and is typically white or ecru, although black blouses are sometimes worn for special occasions. The neckline of the blouse is usually décolleté to show off the cleavage. Embroidery, openwork, and lace elements are also common features.

The dirndl is often paired with hosiery, such as tights or stockings, and traditional Bavarian shoes such as "Haferlschuh" shoes, flats, or court shoes. Jewellery is also commonly worn with the dirndl, including necklaces, bracelets, and hair accessories.

The dirndl has become a symbol of Bavarian culture and pride, and its history reflects the lifestyle, development, and antiquity of Germany. While it began as a practical garment for maids and farm workers, it has evolved into a fashionable item that is widely worn during festivals and special occasions.

Dirndl: a fashion item

The dirndl is a traditional dress with a structured bodice, tightly tied and decoratively embroidered. It is often regarded as a folk costume and is typically worn by women and girls in some Alpine regions of Austria, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein and Switzerland. The dirndl consists of a close-fitting bodice with a low neckline, a blouse worn underneath, a wide high-waisted skirt and an apron.

History

The dirndl originated as a dress worn by young maids in the 18th century and was originally made from simple, hard-wearing fabric such as linen or cotton. It served as work clothing for maids who served at the courts in Austria and Bavaria. Over time, the dirndl evolved and was eventually adopted by the upper and middle classes as a fashion item in the late 19th century.

Modern Trends

Today, the dirndl is a popular fashion item and can be found in a variety of styles, colours, patterns and fabrics. While traditional dirndls were made from cotton or linen, modern dirndls may also be made from velvet, silk, brocade, lace, jeans or even sari fabric. The length of the skirt has also changed, with "mini dirndl" becoming popular, featuring skirts that do not cover the knees. Additionally, the apron knot has taken on a new meaning, with a knot tied on the left indicating that the wearer is single, and a knot tied on the right indicating that they are in a relationship.

Accessories

The dirndl can be accessorised in various ways. While traditional shoes such as "Haferlschuh" are still considered appropriate, many now opt for high heels, court shoes or ballerinas. Tights or stockings can also be worn, with lace or patterned styles being popular choices. Jewellery is also commonly paired with the dirndl, with necklaces, earrings, chokers and chains being favoured.

Frequently asked questions