Dos and Don’ts of Picking an Oktoberfest Outfit

Welcome to this mini Oktoberfest guide on selecting a suitable festival outfit. Oktoberfest is a historic and traditional Bavarian festival where Germans dress in classic leather outfits, particularly Lederhosen and Dirndls. Embrace the spirit of German Oktoberfest by taking part in the rituals and traditions of this annual festival. Represent as the world’s largest folk festival, the celebration of festivities starts in the second last week of September and lasts on the first Sunday of October.

Add a photo of the parade 

The traditional costume and gunmen parade is held on the first Sunday of the festival and allows everyone to showcase their 19th-century style Oktoberfest costumes. The annual parade which is more than 7 kilo meters attracts almost 10,000 participants every year flaunting their Oktoberfest outfit.

An amazing fact about this historic festival is that it is the top-rated touristy fest among many. In 2023’s Oktoberfest (add link to 3rd article) all records were broken when 7.2 million people gathered up in Munich fields wearing Lederhosen and Dirndls. Are you also one of those people who believe locals do not attend such events? Boom!!!! Here goes your bubble, according to a report still 90% of people attending the Oktoberfest are Germans. So, if you want to mix with locals and relive folk stories then get your hands on the finest quality Oktoberfest costumes.

Let’s have a look at some common dos and don’ts of picking an authentic German outfit….

Embrace the Traditional Oktoberfest Attire

Add a photo of men and women wearing lederhosen dirndl

To truly engage with German traditions and Munich locals, it is necessary to adapt their Bavarian-style attire. Dirndls for women and lederhosen for men are the iconic German garments that represent the heritage culture of Munich.

For female outfits: traditionally worn as work clothes, dirndl includes an embroidered bodice, an apron, a blouse and a skirt (comes in many sizes). Style the dirndl skirt with a white puffy sleeves blouse and an apron which has a decorative bow. Women have to be vigilant and careful about their bow placement because it represents their relationship status during Oktoberfest festivities.

Outfit for men: made of 100% pure Bavarian goat leather, Lederhosen are worn with suspenders which hold everything in one place and also ensure reliability and freedom of movement. Lederhosen is often paired with a white or checkered shirt, vest, loferl, charivari and a traditional alpine hat.

Dos for Traditional Oktoberfest Dresses

During Oktoberfest celebrations, wearing traditional Bavarian clothes represents pride and unity. It is the perfect and easiest way to relate and connect with locals.

Isn’t it just enough to carry a tranche? Follow these rules or tips to get the perfect look for 2024’s Oktoberfest festivities.

Premium-quality fabrics

Each piece of this traditional attire needs to be made with premium-quality fabric. It’s a long 16-18 days festival in which you will not only participate in parades, attend musical nights, and enjoy fun carnival rides but also spend most of your time in beer tents, so it is necessary to get your hands only on premium-quality fabric.

Mostly silk, pure cotton and Bavarian leather are used in the manufacturing of these apparel. Don’t forget that Bavarian dress is known worldwide for its durability and comfort so keep this in mind before purchasing one.

Choose Traditional Colours

Let’s keep it simple and stick to the classic colours for both dirndl and lederhosen. For women, it is essential to get dirndl in earthy green, chamois, green, red, blue or pastel shades. Lederhosen is usually available in all shades of brown and black but other subtle options are also in the cue.

Size Is Important

The size guide for Bavarian clothes is different so pay attention to it. There are different simple length and fitting options available for dirndl and lederhosen. Traditional female Oktoberfest outfit is available in three lengths:

• Mini (short skirt)_ is not appropriate and not many people appreciate this kind of attire
• Mid skirt _it lands right above your knees, it is the traditional Bavarian style and young women often style this kind of attire
• Full-length skirt _ suitable option for elderly women and it lands right above the ankle

Most importantly, the traditional fit should embrace the body curves leaving no room for excessive material or fabric. A normal-sized bow ribbon and apron are appropriate to style with your dirndl.

Add a photo of the dirndl with bow

For men, go for the outfit which perfectly hangs on your body and lands right above your ankles. Keep your eyes on the perfect fit and pair it with Bavarian-style embroidered leather shoes and an alpine hat.

Keep it simple!!!

Choose your accessories wisely don’t wear random embellishments and jewellery because it gives you a lousy look. women have multiple options for accessories such as hair accessories, lace-up bodices, embroidered aprons, and delicate jewellery.

Unlike women, men have limited options but they can never go wrong with styling suspenders, a traditional Gillet. You are going to be dancing and roaming from one place to another to look for Bavarian–style comfortable shoes such as Haferlschuhe. Women can never go wrong with block heels or leather pumps.

P.S.: Check out our online store Oktoberfest Outfits to get your hands on the finest quality traditional accessories at budget-friendly prices.

Work on Little Details

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Be mindful of the little details on your German outfit. For example, a dirndl must have a matching apron, a stylish bow and a well-fitted balconette to prominent embroidered neckline.

For men, keep the shirt in basic colours, specific patterns like checkered shirts can also work. Before selecting a patterned shirt, make sure it complements your whole look.

Don’ts for Choosing an Oktoberfest Costume

One lousy mistake and all your efforts are down the drain. So, here are some common don’ts to keep in mind while selecting your 2025 Oktoberfest costume.

Don’t Spend Too Much Money

Say No to expensive accessories and clothes, Oktoberfest is all about sharing German heritage and mix with local culture. Don’t get into tricks of others, a premium-quality Oktoberfest costume can also be available at budget-friendly prices.

Pay a visit to our online store and get your hands on affordable lederhosen and dirndl before it gets out of stock.

Go For Simple

Say NO to fancy dresses and heavy accessories!!!

Oktoberfest is all about traditions and customs. Keep the authenticity of the outfit by avoiding fancy dresses. There are two major reasons to avoid fancy dresses:

• It lacks quality and authenticity
• Locals frown on those who dress up more like a Halloween costume

Avoid Flashy & Bright Colour

Stay a mile away from non-traditional colours including neon and silver colours and avoid unconventional patterns as it can harmonize with the dirndl ambiance.

Add a photo of the lederhosen and dirndl in brown and camel colour 

For lederhosen, it is necessary to choose only a white or checkered shirt. Apart from brown and black, all other vibrant colours are a BIG NO for socks. Don’t wear hats or shirts with beer or Oktoberfest slogans, it kills the whole vibe.

It’s a Wrap