Guide To Buying Traditional Bavarian Dress: In-Person And Online

The Dirndl, a traditional German dress, is an iconic garment with deep roots in the culture and history of German-speaking Alpine regions, particularly Bavaria, Austria, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, and the Italian Alpine areas. It is commonly worn during Oktoberfest and other Bavarian festivities, and its popularity has spread beyond its original region. The Dirndl consists of a full skirt, a tight-fitting bodice with a low neckline, an apron, and a blouse worn underneath.

If you're looking to purchase a Dirndl, there are several online stores that offer a range of styles, colours, and sizes. Websites such as Bavaria Trachten, Alpenclassics, and Lederhosen Store provide a variety of options for women, including different colours, lengths, and price ranges. These websites also offer advice on how to style and care for your Dirndl, ensuring that you can celebrate Bavarian culture in style.

For men, the traditional Bavarian attire is lederhosen, which can also be found on the aforementioned websites. Lederhosen are knee-length leather shorts worn with suspenders, a checked shirt, and a hat.

So, whether you're celebrating your German heritage or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere of Oktoberfest, donning a Dirndl or lederhosen is a great way to embrace Bavarian traditions.

Where to buy a traditional Bavarian dress online

If you're looking to buy a traditional Bavarian dress, or Dirndl, online, there are several options to choose from. Here are some websites and tips to help you find the perfect outfit:

Bavaria Trachten

Bavaria Trachten offers a range of Dirndls, including authentic German Dirndls in various colours and styles. They provide a comprehensive guide to the history and significance of the Dirndl and also offer tips on how to wear and style your outfit. Their website includes detailed product descriptions and images, making it easy to choose the right Dirndl for you. They also offer a range of accessories, such as aprons, blouses, and jewellery, to complete your look.

Alpenclassics

Alpenclassics provides a comprehensive guide to Bavarian clothing, including information on the history and evolution of the Dirndl. They offer a wide range of Dirndls, from traditional to contemporary styles, made from various materials such as cotton, linen, velvet, and silk. In addition to dresses, they also sell Dirndl blouses, shoes, handbags, jewellery, and other accessories to help you create the perfect outfit. Their website includes helpful tips on how to tie your apron and choose the right jewellery and footwear to complement your Dirndl.

Lederhosen Store

While primarily specialising in Lederhosen for men, the Lederhosen Store also offers a selection of Dirndls in their online shop. They have a range of colours and styles, including classic and modern designs, and their Dirndls come with aprons and blouses. The website includes a size guide to ensure you find the right fit, and they offer fast and reliable shipping, as well as easy returns.

When buying a Dirndl online, it is important to consider the quality, sizing, and authenticity of the outfit. Look for websites that provide detailed product descriptions, high-quality images, and customer support. Additionally, read reviews and check the return policy before making your purchase. By exploring these websites and considering your own style and preferences, you are sure to find the perfect traditional Bavarian dress to celebrate Oktoberfest or any other Bavarian festivities.

Where to buy a traditional Bavarian dress in Munich

Munich is a city steeped in tradition, and its native dress is no exception. The Dirndl dress and Lederhosen are iconic worldwide and are worn by locals at various festive events, including Oktoberfest, Frühlingsfest, Auer Dult, and the Kocherlball. If you're looking to purchase a traditional Bavarian dress, or Dirndl, in Munich, here are some places you can visit:

Lederhosenwahnsinn:

Lederhosenwahnsinn is a treasure trove for those seeking vintage Dirndls and Lederhosen. The owner, Herbert Lipah, has been trading in old Lederhosen for almost 40 years. His collection includes rare pieces, such as a pair of Lederhosen once owned by writer Oskar Maria Graf. At Lederhosenwahnsinn, you'll find a wide range of Dirndls and Lederhosen, from vintage to new, with prices for Dirndls ranging from €30 to €300.

Holareidulijö:

Holareidulijö is a second-hand shop specialising in Bavarian traditional dress. The owner, Michaela Klein, is a master leatherworker who restores and designs new Dirndls from second-hand pieces. Here, you'll find a unique selection of Dirndls, with blouses starting at €10 and vintage Dirndls ranging from €30 to €300.

Gottseidank:

Gottseidank is a young Munich label that offers a modern take on traditional dress. Their store in Schleissheimerstrasse showcases Dirndls, knitted jackets, and woollen trousers made with high-quality materials sourced from Italy and Chiemsee. The starting price for a Dirndl at Gottseidank is €549, but you'll be investing in a durable and stylish piece.

Bavarian Outfitters:

If you're only in need of a Dirndl for a day, consider renting from Bavarian Outfitters. They offer a sustainable and affordable option, with Dirndl rentals starting at €42.90 for a day. They have a wide range of styles and sizes, ensuring you'll find the perfect fit for your Oktoberfest or folk festival experience.

Hirmer:

Hirmer is a well-known men's fashion store in Munich, but they also carry a small selection of Dirndls in their regional dress department. While their focus is on men's clothing, you may find a Dirndl that suits your taste.

Lodenfrey:

For a broader selection of Dirndls, Lodenfrey is the place to go. This top Munich department store has a dedicated Dirndl department, featuring popular labels like Amsel and Gottseidank. With their extensive collection, you can easily spend an afternoon browsing for your perfect Dirndl.

In addition to these options, Munich has several other shops specialising in traditional Bavarian dress, including Trachten Rausch, Angermaier, Almenrausch, and Wies'n Tracht & mehr. Whether you're looking to buy or rent, Munich offers a variety of choices to help you embrace the local culture and traditions.

Where to buy a traditional Bavarian dress in Bavaria

There are several options for purchasing a traditional Bavarian dress in Bavaria.

Bavari Shop

The Bavari Shop is a UK-based online store that offers a range of authentic Bavarian costumes, including Dirndl dresses and Lederhosen. They provide a variety of styles and colours, such as the Bavarian Dirndl Dress Ivelina in blue, the Bavarian Midi Dirndl "Oktoberfest" in red Vichy and blue, and the Bavarian Midi Dirndl "Scarlett" in berry red and green. They also offer a clearance sale with discounted prices.

Bavaria Trachten

Bavaria Trachten is an online store that specialises in traditional German Dirndl dresses. They offer a range of styles, including the Women's German Dirndl Dress in blue and gold, black and red, and silver and rose. Their website includes a comprehensive guide to the Dirndl, explaining its history, how to wear it, and the significance of the bow's position.

Lederhosen Store

The Lederhosen Store is an online shop that specialises in men's Lederhosen and women's Dirndl. They offer a wide range of styles and colours, such as the Lovely Light Purple Dirndl, the Rich Maroon Dirndl, and the Blue Midi Dirndl with a velvet bodice. They also provide a range of accessories, including waistcoats, shirts, socks, and shoes, to complete your Bavarian outfit.

Local Traditional Dress Associations

If you are in Bavaria, you may be able to purchase traditional Bavarian dress from local traditional dress associations. These associations preserve and promote the region's traditional dress and customs. However, it is important to note that the specific association you contact may only carry the traditional dress specific to their region.

Physical Stores in Bavaria

Although the sources mainly discuss online stores, there are likely to be physical stores in Bavaria that sell traditional Bavarian dress. These stores may be more difficult to find, but they could offer a more immersive shopping experience and provide expertise on the region's traditions and customs.

Where to buy a traditional Bavarian dress in Germany

If you're looking to buy a traditional Bavarian dress in Germany, you're in luck! There are several online and physical stores that offer a wide range of options to choose from. Here are some recommended places to check out:

Bavaria Trachten:

Bavaria Trachten is an online store that offers a range of traditional German Dirndl dresses. They provide a comprehensive guide to embracing the traditional German attire, with tips on what to wear for Oktoberfest and the secret language of the Dirndl bow. Their collection includes various colours and styles, such as the Women's German Dirndl Dress in Blue and Gold, or Silver and Rose.

Ernst Licht:

Ernst Licht is a leading traditional Bavarian German clothing store that offers a full range of clothing and accessories. They have a collection of vibrant and colourful German Dirndl dresses and Oktoberfest Dirndls to suit different personalities and sizes. They also offer a range of accessories, such as hats, feathers, and jewellery, to complete your look.

Lederhosen Store:

The Lederhosen Store is another online store that specialises in manufacturing and selling men's lederhosen and women's Dirndl. They offer the latest Bavarian designs and colour combinations, and you can find both traditional and modern styles. The Lederhosen Store also provides a range of accessories, such as waistcoats, shirts, socks, and shoes, to complete your outfit.

Physical Stores in Germany:

While online shopping is convenient, you may also want to visit physical stores in Germany to try on different Dirndl and find the perfect fit. Here are some stores to check out:

• C&A: C&A is a popular fashion retailer with stores across Germany. They often have a selection of traditional Bavarian clothing, including Dirndl dresses.
• Ludwig Beck: Located in Munich, Ludwig Beck is a department store that offers a range of traditional Bavarian clothing, including Dirndl dresses.
• Angermaier: With stores in Munich and other German cities, Angermaier is a go-to destination for traditional Bavarian fashion. They offer a wide range of Dirndl dresses and accessories.
• Trachten Rausch: This store, located in Munich, offers a unique selection of traditional Bavarian clothing, including Dirndl dresses, lederhosen, and accessories.
• Lodenfrey: With a focus on luxury fashion, Lodenfrey offers a range of traditional Bavarian clothing, including Dirndl dresses, for those looking for a more high-end option.

Remember to check out the size guides and measurement details on the websites to ensure you get the right fit. Happy shopping, and I hope you find the perfect Bavarian dress!

Where to buy a traditional Bavarian dress in-store

If you're looking to buy a traditional Bavarian dress, or Dirndl, in-store, there are a few options to consider. One popular option is to visit specialty stores that specifically sell German or Bavarian traditional clothing. These stores often have a wide range of Dirndl dresses in various colours, styles, and sizes, including plus-size options. You can also find matching accessories, like aprons, blouses, and traditional footwear, to complete your outfit. Some online stores that offer authentic Lederhosen and Dirndl outfits are Bavaria TrachtenShop and Lederhosen Store, which may have physical stores you can visit.

Another option is to check local costume stores, especially around the time of Oktoberfest. These stores often stock traditional Bavarian outfits, including Dirndl dresses, during festive seasons. Alternatively, you can try larger department stores, which may have a section dedicated to traditional clothing, especially if you're located in Germany or German-speaking regions.

Lastly, you can also explore local markets and festivals, particularly those celebrating Bavarian culture and traditions. These events often feature stalls selling traditional clothing, including Dirndl dresses, and you may be able to find unique, handmade pieces.

Remember, when purchasing a Dirndl, it is essential to consider the quality and authenticity of the outfit. A well-made Dirndl should have attention to detail, use high-quality materials, and showcase intricate embroidery and authentic Alpine motifs.

Frequently asked questions