What to wear to Oktoberfest in Munich - Dirndl Guide

Oktoberfest, the world-famous beer festival in Munich, is not just about beer, it’s also about the rich local Bavarian culture, of which the dirndl is a very important part. This traditional dress is rich in history and symbolism. In this article, we will dive into the tradition of the dirndl, the significance of its bow, and where you can find beautiful, authentic Dirndls online.

The dirndl originated in the rural regions of the Alps and was initially worn by peasants in the 19th century. Over time, it evolved into a symbol of Bavarian identity and tradition. Today, the dirndl is celebrated for its timeless beauty and is commonly worn during festive occasions, particularly Oktoberfest, but also in and around of Munich and Bavaria.

A typical dirndl consists of a bodice, blouse, full skirt, and apron.

While modern interpretations of the dirndl come in various styles, lengths, and colors, traditional dirndls maintain a classic look with rich, earthy tones and intricate embroidery. Wearing a dirndl is not just about fashion—it's about embracing a piece of history and culture.

One of the most important aspects of the dirndl is the placement of the bow, which shows information about the wearer’s relationship status:

• Bow on the Left: The wearer is single and may be open to being approached.
• Bow on the Right: The wearer is in a committed relationship, engaged, or married.
• Bow in the Center Front: The wearer is a virgin, which is more common among younger girls.
• Bow in the Center Back: The wearer is either a widow or a waitress.

This tradition adds an extra layer of charm and etiquette to the dirndl, making it more than just a beautiful outfit, but also a form of social communication.

For those in the USA looking to purchase a traditional dirndl, we highly recommend checking out  Rare Dirndl.

This online store offers a wide selection of high-quality dirndls that capture the essence of Bavarian culture. Whether you’re preparing for Oktoberfest or any other festive occasion, you’re sure to find a dirndl that suits your style and fits perfectly.

Their collection features authentic designs, ensuring that you can celebrate Bavarian traditions no matter where you are. Plus, they offer shipping to the USA, making it easy and convenient to get your hands on these beautiful dresses.

Use our Code "BPTOURS10" to get 10% off for your first Dirndl purchase!

If you don’t want to spend a lot of money on a Dirndl you’ll only wear once, it’s very a good idea to simply rent one instead.
For beautiful and high-quality Dirndls, we recommend to rent with Versatile. Here you can choose from a wide variety of colors and styles, and even rent for several days. Each rental comes as a complete outfit – including Dirndl, apron, and blouse.

Use our link to book a Dirndl and receive an exclusive 10% discount!

If you prefer to buy your Dirndl or Lederhosen directly in Munich, you’ll enjoy a big advantage: you can try everything on right away, make sure the fit is perfect, and coordinate all the pieces of your outfit in person. One of our top recommendations is Trachtenrausch, a traditional store located at Ruppertstraße 32 – just five minutes from the Oktoberfest grounds.

At Trachtenrausch, you’ll find a nice selection of Dirndls in different styles and colors, along with matching blouses, jackets, and accessories. Men can also find an excellent variety of Lederhosen and everything else needed for a complete traditional look.

The service here is very personal, and the team has a lot of experience in helping guests find exactly what suits them best.

Whether you’re looking for a high-quality piece to keep for many years or something more affordable for your first Oktoberfest visit, Trachtenrausch is the perfect place to put together your outfit right in the heart of Munich.

If you show your Beer & Pretzel Tours reservation for an Oktoberfest tour 2025 you get a 10% discount at the Trachtenrausch store in Munich.