The end of summer is the time for major festivals. For example, the Munich Oktoberfest and the Cannstatter Wasen. But finding the right clothes for these is not easy, especially for newcomers to the festival. Do you really need to wear them? What designs are popular? How long should a dirndl be? And what do you actually wear? Experts answer the most important questions.
What kinds of dandels are popular this year?
Monochromatic dirndls, or dirndls that use a uniform color scheme for the dress and apron, such as blue, red, green, and black, are popular this year. But those who opt for an orange skirt and pink apron are also not doing anything wrong this year, according to Sonja Grau, a personal shopper for Bavarian Broadcasting.
And what about the material? Linen-cotton or linen-silk blends are ahead. According to Grau, the length of the garment should be 70 or 80 cm, depending on your height. That means short mini-skirts are not very popular. And: “A women’s apron should not be too short or too long.” According to Grau, it is best if it ends about 2 cm above the hem of the skirt so that the material of the hem is still visible.
What kind of shoes and bag do you wear with your women’s clothes?
Pumps, ballerinas, sandals, lace-up ankle boots, western boots, sneakers – all of these are possible, says Sonja Grau. After all, the wearer should be able to move easily in shoes above all else.
Practicality – This is also important when choosing a bag. “A small bag that is best worn on the body is preferable, such as a small shoulder bag or fanny pack, preferably a bag with a zipper for storage.” Your belongings are safe.
If you are too cool to wear it on its own, you can combine it with a jacket, cardigan, jeans or leather jacket. For example, a stole or a scarf with tassel decorations are also fine.
What hairstyles and accessories go well with dandels?
According to Bavarian personal shoppers, a “neat” hairstyle goes best with traditional outfits such as braids, ponytails or buns. For example, if you still want to straighten your hair, you can use a headband.
And what about headgear? “Traditional hats, fascinators, headbands, etc. are not important,” says Grau. But “ridiculous Oktoberfest hats” are a no-no for Sonja Grau. As for jewelry, traditional costumes or pearl jewelry go well with dirndls. Bracelets or plain gold or silver jewelry are also not bad choices.
Do I have to wear traditional clothing to folk festivals?
Of course, you don’t have to do that. For a personal shopper, wearing regular clothes is practically a no-no. She should have at least a few traditional details, such as a traditional shirt.
Simone Egger, a cultural scientist at Saarland University, sees it a little differently. She says that wearing dirndls and lederhosen at folk festivals today is a relatively new cultural phenomenon. “It was completely new in the early 2000s,” she says, when a relatively young generation began to buy traditional costumes and incorporate them into their own style. Nevertheless, Egger is convinced that “even if people don’t wear them, they can still be part of it.”
And what about men?
Personal shopper Sonja Grau advises wearing short leather trousers made of deer or suede that cover the knees. For example, a traditional button-down white shirt would work well. But you can also wear a checked shirt. For shoes, traditional Haferl shoes are a good choice. That is, shoes with side laces from the Alpine region. Isn’t it? Modern sneakers also work. But classic office shoes are not for Sonja Grau.
And what if you need to wash your clothes after Oktoberfest?
“Usually blouses and aprons can be machine washed,” says Bernd Glassl, a cleaning expert at the IKW (Association of the Personal Care and Detergent Industry). “The dirndl itself depends on the fabric. Not all materials are washable. In any case, it is important to pay attention to the textile care label.”
Another tip: If your clothes are meant for delicates, “fill your washing machine with no more than 25 percent of its maximum load,” Glassl advises. This is generally gentler.
